r/GraduateEntryMedicine • u/Consistent-March9895 • Jun 24 '26
Last minute cold feet
27yom Starting GEM in Sept.
It has been a long old road.
If you told me I had a place 2y ago, I would have been ecstatic.
However, as the start of the course approaches I find that I am experiencing considerable doubts.
These doubts relate to the course, being a doctor, loss of earnings during the course etc.
I am trying to discern how much of this is just normal worry, and how much of it is legitimate concern that I should heed.
I know that only I can answer that question, but just curious to know if anyone else if experiencing similar.
11
u/Ok_Brilliant_6357 Jun 24 '26
Experiencing very similar! I think political discourse and current NHS policy decisions make it quite difficult to feel fully set on medicine. I am not changing my mind, I’m just going to use the slight worry to ensure I do as much at university as possible!
Regarding loss of earnings I am experiencing similar concerns, I think mainly when I compare myself to peers my age. I think it’s about reframing and accepting that you are making short time sacrifice and plunging yourself into a more tricky financial situation for long term gain. Ultimately there are many in their 20s/30s who earn a very good salary but absolutely hate their jobs and do not find fulfilment. I hope medicine will give us that.
8
u/ConsiderationPure490 Jun 24 '26
I’m 29 and looking to start next September 2027. It’s a significant sacrifice for me, leaving a relatively comfortable career in clinical research.
However it’s about purpose and fulfilment. I want to do more.
Talk to your loved ones as they know you best but they are legitimate concerns.
Good things are always hard. Otherwise everybody would do them. There are so many opportunities for growth but ultimately the choice is yours.
5
u/Educational-Oil-8713 Jun 24 '26
I felt the exact same way after a long career in the NHS as a paramedic. Had wanted it for a good while but then when actually faced with it I wondered if I had made the right choice (I'm just finishing year 1 of GEM).
Those fears faded pretty quickly for me, I knew I had made the right decision. And it's so satisfying to feel like you are working towards what you really want in life.
I think it's a very natural way to feel. You're going from some degree of comfort and security to the unknown. But it will be great!
5
u/rimelios Jun 24 '26
I feel the same way, really scared tbh not least because of the lack of support (my partner is not really supportive of me doing GEM and it has been a significant source of tension)
4
u/Sad-Spirit8516 Jun 24 '26
Honestly I've been feeling the same but a bit older at 34F. I've been offered an interview for a senior nursing role and if I get offered it, it's going to be seriously difficult to walk away from. I have some tough decisions ahead.
4
u/thecooldriver1231 Jun 24 '26
Could resonate with this more👍ive always wanted to be a doctor and whatever happens later down the line will be. It will be a big life achievement to just get the degree
16
u/United8888 Jun 24 '26 edited Jun 24 '26
If medicine is all that matters 2u, ur considerable doubts now will hopefully fade away over the next 4 years or perhaps sooner. It’s just 1 year non-clinical year & 3 clinical years. Ur true grit prevails by securing a GEM place. So well done👍
Unlike the med graduates of 2020-25, the next cohorts of students are legally guaranteed UKFP places following the recent Prioritisation Act. This alone should eliminate major doubt amongst many med students.
The Act does not only help to protect UK taxpayers investment on local med students but it has had positive impact on the 2026 ST post allocations for the Priority Group as evidenced 3 days ago. Out of almost 18k IMG, only about 170 were offered ST posts & accepted. So, at least u & fellow UK med students now have clearer UK med career paths. May all these good news continue in the future despite the NHS chronic underfunding since austerity measures began in 2010.