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 Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews.
Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon.
The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting.
Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew
A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews.
Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon.
The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting.
Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew
A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s
Very useful, but..., 01 Sep 2008
I had been using this book in careers class to help me decide which universities I was going to apply to, and this book was exceedingly helpful for this task.
This book gives a league table of universities and also ranks them by each subject for example, Law or History. Another important aspect of this book is that it describes the universities making it truly invaluable to any A-Level student.
However, I only gave this book four stars because the vast majority of information is available online - in the Times website and also through the universities' websites.
Overall I would say that this book is very useful and definitely needed for any student who wants to make the right choice of university - after all it is one of the most important decisions you will make!
Excellent, 23 Jan 2007
Required reading for anyone considering or planning to go to University in the UK. A mass of well-researched, well-analysed data and information that helps one make much better informed judgement on one of the most important decisions of one's life.
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews.
Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon.
The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting.
Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew
A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s
Very useful, but..., 01 Sep 2008
I had been using this book in careers class to help me decide which universities I was going to apply to, and this book was exceedingly helpful for this task.
This book gives a league table of universities and also ranks them by each subject for example, Law or History. Another important aspect of this book is that it describes the universities making it truly invaluable to any A-Level student.
However, I only gave this book four stars because the vast majority of information is available online - in the Times website and also through the universities' websites.
Overall I would say that this book is very useful and definitely needed for any student who wants to make the right choice of university - after all it is one of the most important decisions you will make!
Excellent, 23 Jan 2007
Required reading for anyone considering or planning to go to University in the UK. A mass of well-researched, well-analysed data and information that helps one make much better informed judgement on one of the most important decisions of one's life.
The most useful book I have read, 05 Sep 2005
When my mother gave me this book as a leaving present I did at first feel a little skeptical of its promises... well the title had a lot to live up to. However, having poured over this book during my train journey up to Manchester I kind of got the impression that this book had been written from experience rather than to simply make a fast buck. The sections are clear, the information useful and honest. I loved the section on Hedonism!
I especially liked the section on housing. Being a student and leaving home for the first time I found the information invaluable.
This is the one time my mother got it right. I think they should give it out on fresher's week.
The Virgin University Survival Guide, 31 Aug 2005
This book gave the most comprehensive guide to life as a student that I have come across in my travels and was an instant buy when I sent my first child off to university. My second child is off to university again this year and I will be buying another copy for her too.
Not the best of its kind, 01 Aug 2005
I checked this book out and a couple of other similar ones. Its okay, I suppose, but when I compared it to The Push Guide to Choosing a University which has similar content, at almost half the price and is much funnier and more readable, it's clear which is a better buy.
Blaggers guide revealed!, 21 Apr 2004
I bought this for my little bro (off to uni) and won't be giving it to himuntil well after the event as i chuckle and chortle my way though thewhole thing.
Simply put it is a list of all the scams and blags that it took the likesof me and my mates three years to work out, tidily organised into oneconcise book. During the dark days of cash-flow problems (which tend toresemble the hoover dam)known as university, this seems like anindispensible aid to keeping your head above water in a variety of (legal)ways.
Since its not from the library there is a chance that they will actuallyread it well before the third year. I can only sit and be jealous of thisyears fresh crop of first years as they sit smug in the knowledge thattheir ride through the first tumultuous years of post-home life will be assmooth as... well picking up a book and reading it.
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews. Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon. The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting. Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s Very useful, but..., 01 Sep 2008
I had been using this book in careers class to help me decide which universities I was going to apply to, and this book was exceedingly helpful for this task.
This book gives a league table of universities and also ranks them by each subject for example, Law or History. Another important aspect of this book is that it describes the universities making it truly invaluable to any A-Level student.
However, I only gave this book four stars because the vast majority of information is available online - in the Times website and also through the universities' websites.
Overall I would say that this book is very useful and definitely needed for any student who wants to make the right choice of university - after all it is one of the most important decisions you will make!
Excellent, 23 Jan 2007
Required reading for anyone considering or planning to go to University in the UK. A mass of well-researched, well-analysed data and information that helps one make much better informed judgement on one of the most important decisions of one's life. The most useful book I have read, 05 Sep 2005
When my mother gave me this book as a leaving present I did at first feel a little skeptical of its promises... well the title had a lot to live up to. However, having poured over this book during my train journey up to Manchester I kind of got the impression that this book had been written from experience rather than to simply make a fast buck. The sections are clear, the information useful and honest. I loved the section on Hedonism!
I especially liked the section on housing. Being a student and leaving home for the first time I found the information invaluable.
This is the one time my mother got it right. I think they should give it out on fresher's week. The Virgin University Survival Guide, 31 Aug 2005
This book gave the most comprehensive guide to life as a student that I have come across in my travels and was an instant buy when I sent my first child off to university. My second child is off to university again this year and I will be buying another copy for her too. Not the best of its kind, 01 Aug 2005
I checked this book out and a couple of other similar ones. Its okay, I suppose, but when I compared it to The Push Guide to Choosing a University which has similar content, at almost half the price and is much funnier and more readable, it's clear which is a better buy. Blaggers guide revealed!, 21 Apr 2004
I bought this for my little bro (off to uni) and won't be giving it to himuntil well after the event as i chuckle and chortle my way though thewhole thing. Simply put it is a list of all the scams and blags that it took the likesof me and my mates three years to work out, tidily organised into oneconcise book. During the dark days of cash-flow problems (which tend toresemble the hoover dam)known as university, this seems like anindispensible aid to keeping your head above water in a variety of (legal)ways. Since its not from the library there is a chance that they will actuallyread it well before the third year. I can only sit and be jealous of thisyears fresh crop of first years as they sit smug in the knowledge thattheir ride through the first tumultuous years of post-home life will be assmooth as... well picking up a book and reading it. A must for all wannabe doctors, 30 Oct 2007
Facts, figures and practical info for anyone applying for a place at medical school. Good guide, 23 Dec 2006
This is a good guide which I used in my application. However, to stay abreast with the recent changes in medical education (with regard to MMC in particular), its worth looking for a more recently published book also; the RSM press book "A career in medicine - do you have what it takes?" has a new edition coming out in January, and appears to have a website as well for updates http://www.acareerinmedicine.net MedSchool guide, 11 Sep 2005
It's a really great book, and covers everything you need to know. Essential for anyone thinking of applying, but remember, the medical schools know that everyone has this book; they will change their interviews etc in places. A MUST HAVE!!! excellent, 04 Mar 2005
will tell you everything you need to know about medical school. if you are committed enough to want to do medicine, surely you would be committed to buy this book? An excellent guide to getting into Medical Schoool, 25 Nov 2004
This book is an excellent overall guide to becoming a doctor. It starts off by guiding you through the process of getting an interview with advice on what shadowing experience etc you need, how to fill in your UCAS form (including the personal statement) and which subjects to study at GCSE and A-level. It goes on to guide you through how to succeed at interview, with advice as to how best to tackle questions like "Why do you want to become a doctor?", "What makes a good doctor?" and many other common questions. There is also a chapter on how to tackle your A-levels to ensure you get the right grades and advice on what to do if you receive an offer but fail to meet the required grades or fail to get an offer but do better in your exams than expected. The book even has some advice for non-stadard applications such as mature, overseas and applicants with no science subjects. All of this is very well covered. However, the most useful section by far is the current affairs chapter that discusses the issues of the NHS, SARs, BSE, the implications of genetic engineering, third world health, MMR and HIV/AIDS. The appendix contains a table of medical school admission policies and stats including mock interview questions. Overall, this book is excellent. I would advise anyone applying or thinking of applying to study Medicine to buy this book. In my experience, the succeding at interview and current affairs sections cover many of the question that you are likely to encounter at interview.
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews. Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon. The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting. Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s Very useful, but..., 01 Sep 2008
I had been using this book in careers class to help me decide which universities I was going to apply to, and this book was exceedingly helpful for this task.
This book gives a league table of universities and also ranks them by each subject for example, Law or History. Another important aspect of this book is that it describes the universities making it truly invaluable to any A-Level student.
However, I only gave this book four stars because the vast majority of information is available online - in the Times website and also through the universities' websites.
Overall I would say that this book is very useful and definitely needed for any student who wants to make the right choice of university - after all it is one of the most important decisions you will make!
Excellent, 23 Jan 2007
Required reading for anyone considering or planning to go to University in the UK. A mass of well-researched, well-analysed data and information that helps one make much better informed judgement on one of the most important decisions of one's life. The most useful book I have read, 05 Sep 2005
When my mother gave me this book as a leaving present I did at first feel a little skeptical of its promises... well the title had a lot to live up to. However, having poured over this book during my train journey up to Manchester I kind of got the impression that this book had been written from experience rather than to simply make a fast buck. The sections are clear, the information useful and honest. I loved the section on Hedonism!
I especially liked the section on housing. Being a student and leaving home for the first time I found the information invaluable.
This is the one time my mother got it right. I think they should give it out on fresher's week. The Virgin University Survival Guide, 31 Aug 2005
This book gave the most comprehensive guide to life as a student that I have come across in my travels and was an instant buy when I sent my first child off to university. My second child is off to university again this year and I will be buying another copy for her too. Not the best of its kind, 01 Aug 2005
I checked this book out and a couple of other similar ones. Its okay, I suppose, but when I compared it to The Push Guide to Choosing a University which has similar content, at almost half the price and is much funnier and more readable, it's clear which is a better buy. Blaggers guide revealed!, 21 Apr 2004
I bought this for my little bro (off to uni) and won't be giving it to himuntil well after the event as i chuckle and chortle my way though thewhole thing. Simply put it is a list of all the scams and blags that it took the likesof me and my mates three years to work out, tidily organised into oneconcise book. During the dark days of cash-flow problems (which tend toresemble the hoover dam)known as university, this seems like anindispensible aid to keeping your head above water in a variety of (legal)ways. Since its not from the library there is a chance that they will actuallyread it well before the third year. I can only sit and be jealous of thisyears fresh crop of first years as they sit smug in the knowledge thattheir ride through the first tumultuous years of post-home life will be assmooth as... well picking up a book and reading it. A must for all wannabe doctors, 30 Oct 2007
Facts, figures and practical info for anyone applying for a place at medical school. Good guide, 23 Dec 2006
This is a good guide which I used in my application. However, to stay abreast with the recent changes in medical education (with regard to MMC in particular), its worth looking for a more recently published book also; the RSM press book "A career in medicine - do you have what it takes?" has a new edition coming out in January, and appears to have a website as well for updates http://www.acareerinmedicine.net MedSchool guide, 11 Sep 2005
It's a really great book, and covers everything you need to know. Essential for anyone thinking of applying, but remember, the medical schools know that everyone has this book; they will change their interviews etc in places. A MUST HAVE!!! excellent, 04 Mar 2005
will tell you everything you need to know about medical school. if you are committed enough to want to do medicine, surely you would be committed to buy this book? An excellent guide to getting into Medical Schoool, 25 Nov 2004
This book is an excellent overall guide to becoming a doctor. It starts off by guiding you through the process of getting an interview with advice on what shadowing experience etc you need, how to fill in your UCAS form (including the personal statement) and which subjects to study at GCSE and A-level. It goes on to guide you through how to succeed at interview, with advice as to how best to tackle questions like "Why do you want to become a doctor?", "What makes a good doctor?" and many other common questions. There is also a chapter on how to tackle your A-levels to ensure you get the right grades and advice on what to do if you receive an offer but fail to meet the required grades or fail to get an offer but do better in your exams than expected. The book even has some advice for non-stadard applications such as mature, overseas and applicants with no science subjects. All of this is very well covered. However, the most useful section by far is the current affairs chapter that discusses the issues of the NHS, SARs, BSE, the implications of genetic engineering, third world health, MMR and HIV/AIDS. The appendix contains a table of medical school admission policies and stats including mock interview questions. Overall, this book is excellent. I would advise anyone applying or thinking of applying to study Medicine to buy this book. In my experience, the succeding at interview and current affairs sections cover many of the question that you are likely to encounter at interview.
Too patronising and too descriptive an account of PhD life..., 15 Aug 2008
Well if this is what a PhD is about then I'm not going to bother continuing....
I'm not sure who this book is aimed at - I guess it you are coming straight from being an undergrad then there is advice in it that might help. Having worked as a research assistant for a couple of years I had a vague idea of what a PhD entailed before starting and for me this book wasn't at all helpful, except maybe to reinforce the fact that you are very much in charge of your own destiny.
My overall thoughts are that the book is heavily descriptive and for me, it felt a little patronising. What was being mentioned was too obvious - male tutor might seduce female student in exchange for good marks - and in reference to that topic an incredibly depressing account of academic institutions!
Personally I prefer Rugg and Petre - The Unwritten Rules of PhD Research which focuses on the more practical elements such as writing style, presentations, networking.
Extremely Helpful, 20 Oct 2007
As I was about to embark on PhD study I bought and read this book following amazon customer recommendations and I am very glad I did. It is written in a style which is easy to understand and is honest in its approach. It gives helpful advice, but does not shy against the more difficult side of PhD research. Having been on my course for only 2 weeks I find myself using some of the advice already. I intend to keep this throughout my course of study and refer to it on a regular basis. I would recommend this book to anyone who is thinking of embarking on a PhD or even those already on one who need encouragement. It is well worth the money.
Calling all Ph.D students., 17 Mar 2006
I am a currently a final year Ph.D student, enrolled in the Psychology Department at the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne. I read this book during my first year of study and I found it a valuable resource in getting started. Those of you who are yourselves Ph.D students will know how difficult it is to know where to start your research and the lack of help/guidance many students receive (although of course this depends on your supervisor and your department specifically). I personally received little help and was primarily left alone to 'get on with it'. This was very daunting to say the least. This book is therefore a good place for those in a similar position to start. I recommend the book for either those who have recently embarked on a PhD or for those who are considering it. The book may also be valuable to those who are just starting out as academics and are new to research supervision. There are 12 chapters in total. 1) Becoming a postgraduate: This is a very brief chapter, containing general information about whats expected during the three years of study and the PhD degree itself. The chapter also outlines the structure and aims of the book in general. 2) Getting into the system: Chapter Two contains information about choosing a course, both in terms of your supervisors, subject and the institution you will be attending. It is important that you ensure your are happy in all of these area's, as a PhD is a long hard slog. This chapter is really only suitable for those who have yet to apply. 3) The nature of a Ph.D qualification: Chapter Three discusses what's expected of a PhD student, what you should be aiming for by studying for a PhD and the overall point of the qualification. This is discussed both from the student and the supervisor perspective. 4) How not to get a Ph.D: This is a fairly self-explanatory chapter and deals with issues such as not to overestimate or underestimate what's expected, not understanding what is required, losing contact with supervisors and not leaving adequate time to write up. There are lots of useful examples in this section and it is one of the best overall. 5) How to do research: This chapter discusses the characteristics of good research and the most common types of research and methodologies. In addition sources of electronic support and discussion are outlined, which may be helpful if students are struggling to get help internally. This chapter contains really useful tips and advice, it is also one of the most useful chapters. 6) The form of a Ph.D thesis: This chapter discussed the finished product, e.g. the actual thesis that will be submitted at the end of the three years of study. This section includes advice on the structure of the thesis, how to lay out chapters and some tips of writing skills, originality and theory. 7) The Ph.D process: This chapter discusses what you should expect during the three years you are completing your PhD. Deals with topics such as isolation, time management, boredom, frustration, deadlines and the development of transferrable skills. Again, I would say that this is one of the most useful chapters of the book. 8) How to manage you supervisor: This chapter discusses what's expected of your supervisor and how much of a role you can expect him/her to play. Highlights the importance of regular meetings and progress reports but also that esentially the PhD is an independent process. This section also deals with handling potential problems including what happens if you want to change supervisors and if you want to make a formal complaint. 9) How to survive in a premomineantly British, white, male, full-time academic environment: Covers areas such as sexual harassment, racism and disabilities and how to deal with these factors. This chapter is not really that applicable to me and thus I only skim read it. 10) The formal procedures: This chapter primarily deals with the submission of your thesis, the selection of examiners and tips on how to handle the 'viva' - the oral exam which takes place at the end of a PhD and which is generally dreaded by all students. There are also tips on getting funding and going into post doctoral research following a PhD. 11) How to supervise and examine: Generally this chapter focuses on the student-supervisor relationship but is geared mostly towards the supervisors perspective and thus isn't very useful for students. 12) Institutional responsibilities: This chapter discusses the training of both supervisors and students. What you should expect from your university and your supervisor overall, the resources and support you are entitled to and also what they will expect from you! Each of these chapters are broken down clearly into sections making in easy for readers to access the bits that are relevant. There's also a clear index at the back and many references should the reader feel they need additional help. The book is well written and avoids jargon. Although it can be a little hard going at times, this is too be expected given the topic and the necessity of covering all relevant issues. The book isn't designed to be a pleasurable read, it is designed to be a factual resource. On the negative side one disadvantage is the fact that the book is fairly subject specific and tends to give examples from buisness studies students on the whole. This is a shame as sometimes the examples are a little irrelevant. I also feel that the book would benefit from an increased emphasis on scientific writing skills in general. This is one area that students commonly struggle with, yet it is primarily neglected throughout. It's also expensive at £19 but the book is a really useful resource throughout your PhD and is sure to be a valuable source of information. If you are willing to buy secondhand, the book is currently available at Amazon.co.uk from around £15. In addition students should have access to a university library where the book is likely to be available. In summary this book is definitely worth a read if you are a first year PhD student who feels out of their depth and all in all, I do recommend it. However, because of the price and the subject-specific examples I give the book four stars.
How to get a PhD?, 05 Aug 2005
I bought an earlier edition of this book in the early 1990s, and it was an excellent aid when I was completing my PhD in the Representation of the Past in Museums. I brought it to the attention of my Supervisor, who was equally impressed after overcoming his initial sceptism. I recently gave the latest edition of "How to Get a PhD" to my son, who is undertaking his PhD in Radar Tomography and Upper Polar Atmospheric Physics. He is as equally impressed. What greater accolade can a book be given? It is a wonderful read, offering essential practical advice. An essential purchase for postgraduates and their supervisors.
Great book! Talks honestly & suggests lots of useful advice., 28 Sep 2004
This book is really written in an honest way and explains the administrative procedures of a British PhD system. It talks about the fears and uncertatainties which PhD students face and talks about the traps in which one should never fall into. It talks in depth about the risk of over-estimating the amount of work required for a PhD which can lead to failure. After reading this book I realised I wasn't just a weird guy thinking about nonsense but many people have the same fears and thoughts. It really helped me relax and take a more realistic view of the goals. It helped me in having a great time during my PhD. One piece of advice: Loneliness should not be underestimated! If you have a healthy social life, it can help you go through the though times.
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews. Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon. The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting. Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s Very useful, but..., 01 Sep 2008
I had been using this book in careers class to help me decide which universities I was going to apply to, and this book was exceedingly helpful for this task.
This book gives a league table of universities and also ranks them by each subject for example, Law or History. Another important aspect of this book is that it describes the universities making it truly invaluable to any A-Level student.
However, I only gave this book four stars because the vast majority of information is available online - in the Times website and also through the universities' websites.
Overall I would say that this book is very useful and definitely needed for any student who wants to make the right choice of university - after all it is one of the most important decisions you will make!
Excellent, 23 Jan 2007
Required reading for anyone considering or planning to go to University in the UK. A mass of well-researched, well-analysed data and information that helps one make much better informed judgement on one of the most important decisions of one's life. The most useful book I have read, 05 Sep 2005
When my mother gave me this book as a leaving present I did at first feel a little skeptical of its promises... well the title had a lot to live up to. However, having poured over this book during my train journey up to Manchester I kind of got the impression that this book had been written from experience rather than to simply make a fast buck. The sections are clear, the information useful and honest. I loved the section on Hedonism!
I especially liked the section on housing. Being a student and leaving home for the first time I found the information invaluable.
This is the one time my mother got it right. I think they should give it out on fresher's week. The Virgin University Survival Guide, 31 Aug 2005
This book gave the most comprehensive guide to life as a student that I have come across in my travels and was an instant buy when I sent my first child off to university. My second child is off to university again this year and I will be buying another copy for her too. Not the best of its kind, 01 Aug 2005
I checked this book out and a couple of other similar ones. Its okay, I suppose, but when I compared it to The Push Guide to Choosing a University which has similar content, at almost half the price and is much funnier and more readable, it's clear which is a better buy. Blaggers guide revealed!, 21 Apr 2004
I bought this for my little bro (off to uni) and won't be giving it to himuntil well after the event as i chuckle and chortle my way though thewhole thing. Simply put it is a list of all the scams and blags that it took the likesof me and my mates three years to work out, tidily organised into oneconcise book. During the dark days of cash-flow problems (which tend toresemble the hoover dam)known as university, this seems like anindispensible aid to keeping your head above water in a variety of (legal)ways. Since its not from the library there is a chance that they will actuallyread it well before the third year. I can only sit and be jealous of thisyears fresh crop of first years as they sit smug in the knowledge thattheir ride through the first tumultuous years of post-home life will be assmooth as... well picking up a book and reading it. A must for all wannabe doctors, 30 Oct 2007
Facts, figures and practical info for anyone applying for a place at medical school. Good guide, 23 Dec 2006
This is a good guide which I used in my application. However, to stay abreast with the recent changes in medical education (with regard to MMC in particular), its worth looking for a more recently published book also; the RSM press book "A career in medicine - do you have what it takes?" has a new edition coming out in January, and appears to have a website as well for updates http://www.acareerinmedicine.net MedSchool guide, 11 Sep 2005
It's a really great book, and covers everything you need to know. Essential for anyone thinking of applying, but remember, the medical schools know that everyone has this book; they will change their interviews etc in places. A MUST HAVE!!! excellent, 04 Mar 2005
will tell you everything you need to know about medical school. if you are committed enough to want to do medicine, surely you would be committed to buy this book? An excellent guide to getting into Medical Schoool, 25 Nov 2004
This book is an excellent overall guide to becoming a doctor. It starts off by guiding you through the process of getting an interview with advice on what shadowing experience etc you need, how to fill in your UCAS form (including the personal statement) and which subjects to study at GCSE and A-level. It goes on to guide you through how to succeed at interview, with advice as to how best to tackle questions like "Why do you want to become a doctor?", "What makes a good doctor?" and many other common questions. There is also a chapter on how to tackle your A-levels to ensure you get the right grades and advice on what to do if you receive an offer but fail to meet the required grades or fail to get an offer but do better in your exams than expected. The book even has some advice for non-stadard applications such as mature, overseas and applicants with no science subjects. All of this is very well covered. However, the most useful section by far is the current affairs chapter that discusses the issues of the NHS, SARs, BSE, the implications of genetic engineering, third world health, MMR and HIV/AIDS. The appendix contains a table of medical school admission policies and stats including mock interview questions. Overall, this book is excellent. I would advise anyone applying or thinking of applying to study Medicine to buy this book. In my experience, the succeding at interview and current affairs sections cover many of the question that you are likely to encounter at interview.
Too patronising and too descriptive an account of PhD life..., 15 Aug 2008
Well if this is what a PhD is about then I'm not going to bother continuing....
I'm not sure who this book is aimed at - I guess it you are coming straight from being an undergrad then there is advice in it that might help. Having worked as a research assistant for a couple of years I had a vague idea of what a PhD entailed before starting and for me this book wasn't at all helpful, except maybe to reinforce the fact that you are very much in charge of your own destiny.
My overall thoughts are that the book is heavily descriptive and for me, it felt a little patronising. What was being mentioned was too obvious - male tutor might seduce female student in exchange for good marks - and in reference to that topic an incredibly depressing account of academic institutions!
Personally I prefer Rugg and Petre - The Unwritten Rules of PhD Research which focuses on the more practical elements such as writing style, presentations, networking.
Extremely Helpful, 20 Oct 2007
As I was about to embark on PhD study I bought and read this book following amazon customer recommendations and I am very glad I did. It is written in a style which is easy to understand and is honest in its approach. It gives helpful advice, but does not shy against the more difficult side of PhD research. Having been on my course for only 2 weeks I find myself using some of the advice already. I intend to keep this throughout my course of study and refer to it on a regular basis. I would recommend this book to anyone who is thinking of embarking on a PhD or even those already on one who need encouragement. It is well worth the money.
Calling all Ph.D students., 17 Mar 2006
I am a currently a final year Ph.D student, enrolled in the Psychology Department at the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne. I read this book during my first year of study and I found it a valuable resource in getting started. Those of you who are yourselves Ph.D students will know how difficult it is to know where to start your research and the lack of help/guidance many students receive (although of course this depends on your supervisor and your department specifically). I personally received little help and was primarily left alone to 'get on with it'. This was very daunting to say the least. This book is therefore a good place for those in a similar position to start. I recommend the book for either those who have recently embarked on a PhD or for those who are considering it. The book may also be valuable to those who are just starting out as academics and are new to research supervision. There are 12 chapters in total. 1) Becoming a postgraduate: This is a very brief chapter, containing general information about whats expected during the three years of study and the PhD degree itself. The chapter also outlines the structure and aims of the book in general. 2) Getting into the system: Chapter Two contains information about choosing a course, both in terms of your supervisors, subject and the institution you will be attending. It is important that you ensure your are happy in all of these area's, as a PhD is a long hard slog. This chapter is really only suitable for those who have yet to apply. 3) The nature of a Ph.D qualification: Chapter Three discusses what's expected of a PhD student, what you should be aiming for by studying for a PhD and the overall point of the qualification. This is discussed both from the student and the supervisor perspective. 4) How not to get a Ph.D: This is a fairly self-explanatory chapter and deals with issues such as not to overestimate or underestimate what's expected, not understanding what is required, losing contact with supervisors and not leaving adequate time to write up. There are lots of useful examples in this section and it is one of the best overall. 5) How to do research: This chapter discusses the characteristics of good research and the most common types of research and methodologies. In addition sources of electronic support and discussion are outlined, which may be helpful if students are struggling to get help internally. This chapter contains really useful tips and advice, it is also one of the most useful chapters. 6) The form of a Ph.D thesis: This chapter discussed the finished product, e.g. the actual thesis that will be submitted at the end of the three years of study. This section includes advice on the structure of the thesis, how to lay out chapters and some tips of writing skills, originality and theory. 7) The Ph.D process: This chapter discusses what you should expect during the three years you are completing your PhD. Deals with topics such as isolation, time management, boredom, frustration, deadlines and the development of transferrable skills. Again, I would say that this is one of the most useful chapters of the book. 8) How to manage you supervisor: This chapter discusses what's expected of your supervisor and how much of a role you can expect him/her to play. Highlights the importance of regular meetings and progress reports but also that esentially the PhD is an independent process. This section also deals with handling potential problems including what happens if you want to change supervisors and if you want to make a formal complaint. 9) How to survive in a premomineantly British, white, male, full-time academic environment: Covers areas such as sexual harassment, racism and disabilities and how to deal with these factors. This chapter is not really that applicable to me and thus I only skim read it. 10) The formal procedures: This chapter primarily deals with the submission of your thesis, the selection of examiners and tips on how to handle the 'viva' - the oral exam which takes place at the end of a PhD and which is generally dreaded by all students. There are also tips on getting funding and going into post doctoral research following a PhD. 11) How to supervise and examine: Generally this chapter focuses on the student-supervisor relationship but is geared mostly towards the supervisors perspective and thus isn't very useful for students. 12) Institutional responsibilities: This chapter discusses the training of both supervisors and students. What you should expect from your university and your supervisor overall, the resources and support you are entitled to and also what they will expect from you! Each of these chapters are broken down clearly into sections making in easy for readers to access the bits that are relevant. There's also a clear index at the back and many references should the reader feel they need additional help. The book is well written and avoids jargon. Although it can be a little hard going at times, this is too be expected given the topic and the necessity of covering all relevant issues. The book isn't designed to be a pleasurable read, it is designed to be a factual resource. On the negative side one disadvantage is the fact that the book is fairly subject specific and tends to give examples from buisness studies students on the whole. This is a shame as sometimes the examples are a little irrelevant. I also feel that the book would benefit from an increased emphasis on scientific writing skills in general. This is one area that students commonly struggle with, yet it is primarily neglected throughout. It's also expensive at £19 but the book is a really useful resource throughout your PhD and is sure to be a valuable source of information. If you are willing to buy secondhand, the book is currently available at Amazon.co.uk from around £15. In addition students should have access to a university library where the book is likely to be available. In summary this book is definitely worth a read if you are a first year PhD student who feels out of their depth and all in all, I do recommend it. However, because of the price and the subject-specific examples I give the book four stars.
How to get a PhD?, 05 Aug 2005
I bought an earlier edition of this book in the early 1990s, and it was an excellent aid when I was completing my PhD in the Representation of the Past in Museums. I brought it to the attention of my Supervisor, who was equally impressed after overcoming his initial sceptism. I recently gave the latest edition of "How to Get a PhD" to my son, who is undertaking his PhD in Radar Tomography and Upper Polar Atmospheric Physics. He is as equally impressed. What greater accolade can a book be given? It is a wonderful read, offering essential practical advice. An essential purchase for postgraduates and their supervisors.
Great book! Talks honestly & suggests lots of useful advice., 28 Sep 2004
This book is really written in an honest way and explains the administrative procedures of a British PhD system. It talks about the fears and uncertatainties which PhD students face and talks about the traps in which one should never fall into. It talks in depth about the risk of over-estimating the amount of work required for a PhD which can lead to failure. After reading this book I realised I wasn't just a weird guy thinking about nonsense but many people have the same fears and thoughts. It really helped me relax and take a more realistic view of the goals. It helped me in having a great time during my PhD. One piece of advice: Loneliness should not be underestimated! If you have a healthy social life, it can help you go through the though times.
It worked for us, 06 Dec 2007
When my daughter was applying for university we bought the Virgin Guide and friends bought other guides so we could all swap. I preferred this one although it doesn't give huge detail about individual courses. Where it seems to score is on giving an accurate flavour of how it will feel to be at a particular university for 3 or more years. My daughter is in her 2nd year now and re-reading what the Virgin Guide said about her university and the city, I think the portrayal of the whole experience is remarkably accurate.
Shoulda read this before applying, 10 Nov 2007
This is by far the best guide to what it is like to actualy live at university and the practicalities of studying there which goes beyond league tables. It gives rankings of elements of a non academic nature such as the male female split and the national football/hockey/rugby rankings. It also rates the social life, and this is where I fell down. Because I ignored the advice of this book before I applied I am now at a university whose course is in the top 10 in the times however socially I hate it. I am now using this guide to help inform my decision on where to transfer to. I beg you to read this guide carefully and make a decision based on this and academic league tables, it will save your future and your life. Ive wasted 5 weeks at a university I now hate and as a result have missed the deadlines for one of the Oxbridge courses I wanted to re-appy for.
Generaly I dislike richard branson and most of his products (especially his trains) but this is one virgin brand product which is definately worth the investment.
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews. Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon. The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to detailing government influence in healthcare and even describing how teamwork, communication and leadership plays out in a healthcare setting. Absolute Brilliance, 28 Mar 2008
Very informative and up to date book which doesn't give the answers straight away, but implores you to think of them yourself, and then helps with the finer points and structure of your answer. With two offers under my belt now, I am very grateful for this book which really improved my confidence when I walked into the interview room-And I firmly believe that it was the 'clincher' for me this year. I would definately reccomend this book!
Thankyou so much!
Andrew A really useful book for any high school student applying for medicine, 06 Feb 2008
I bought this book in the hope to get better not just interview skills but also better for any medicine interviews I may get. I know that someone mentioned that this book is better suited for a medical graduate applying for a residency post- but I do not think that it should be thought of as a disadvantage. The interviewer are going to be looking for students that they feel would graduate and get an internship- therefore they would use a lot of the questions in the book- depending on how hard they will be on you. Another thing that I really liked about this book is that it teaches you how to answer the questions,rather than just giving you a cliched example for you to learn off by heart. These are my reasons for giving it 5*s Very useful, but..., 01 Sep 2008
I had been using this book in careers class to help me decide which universities I was going to apply to, and this book was exceedingly helpful for this task.
This book gives a league table of universities and also ranks them by each subject for example, Law or History. Another important aspect of this book is that it describes the universities making it truly invaluable to any A-Level student.
However, I only gave this book four stars because the vast majority of information is available online - in the Times website and also through the universities' websites.
Overall I would say that this book is very useful and definitely needed for any student who wants to make the right choice of university - after all it is one of the most important decisions you will make!
Excellent, 23 Jan 2007
Required reading for anyone considering or planning to go to University in the UK. A mass of well-researched, well-analysed data and information that helps one make much better informed judgement on one of the most important decisions of one's life. The most useful book I have read, 05 Sep 2005
When my mother gave me this book as a leaving present I did at first feel a little skeptical of its promises... well the title had a lot to live up to. However, having poured over this book during my train journey up to Manchester I kind of got the impression that this book had been written from experience rather than to simply make a fast buck. The sections are clear, the information useful and honest. I loved the section on Hedonism!
I especially liked the section on housing. Being a student and leaving home for the first time I found the information invaluable.
This is the one time my mother got it right. I think they should give it out on fresher's week. The Virgin University Survival Guide, 31 Aug 2005
This book gave the most comprehensive guide to life as a student that I have come across in my travels and was an instant buy when I sent my first child off to university. My second child is off to university again this year and I will be buying another copy for her too. Not the best of its kind, 01 Aug 2005
I checked this book out and a couple of other similar ones. Its okay, I suppose, but when I compared it to The Push Guide to Choosing a University which has similar content, at almost half the price and is much funnier and more readable, it's clear which is a better buy. Blaggers guide revealed!, 21 Apr 2004
I bought this for my little bro (off to uni) and won't be giving it to himuntil well after the event as i chuckle and chortle my way though thewhole thing. Simply put it is a list of all the scams and blags that it took the likesof me and my mates three years to work out, tidily organised into oneconcise book. During the dark days of cash-flow problems (which tend toresemble the hoover dam)known as university, this seems like anindispensible aid to keeping your head above water in a variety of (legal)ways. Since its not from the library there is a chance that they will actuallyread it well before the third year. I can only sit and be jealous of thisyears fresh crop of first years as they sit smug in the knowledge thattheir ride through the first tumultuous years of post-home life will be assmooth as... well picking up a book and reading it. A must for all wannabe doctors, 30 Oct 2007
Facts, figures and practical info for anyone applying for a place at medical school. Good guide, 23 Dec 2006
This is a good guide which I used in my application. However, to stay abreast with the recent changes in medical education (with regard to MMC in particular), its worth looking for a more recently published book also; the RSM press book "A career in medicine - do you have what it takes?" has a new edition coming out in January, and appears to have a website as well for updates http://www.acareerinmedicine.net MedSchool guide, 11 Sep 2005
It's a really great book, and covers everything you need to know. Essential for anyone thinking of applying, but remember, the medical schools know that everyone has this book; they will change their interviews etc in places. A MUST HAVE!!! excellent, 04 Mar 2005
will tell you everything you need to know about medical school. if you are committed enough to want to do medicine, surely you would be committed to buy this book? An excellent guide to getting into Medical Schoool, 25 Nov 2004
This book is an excellent overall guide to becoming a doctor. It starts off by guiding you through the process of getting an interview with advice on what shadowing experience etc you need, how to fill in your UCAS form (including the personal statement) and which subjects to study at GCSE and A-level. It goes on to guide you through how to succeed at interview, with advice as to how best to tackle questions like "Why do you want to become a doctor?", "What makes a good doctor?" and many other common questions. There is also a chapter on how to tackle your A-levels to ensure you get the right grades and advice on what to do if you receive an offer but fail to meet the required grades or fail to get an offer but do better in your exams than expected. The book even has some advice for non-stadard applications such as mature, overseas and applicants with no science subjects. All of this is very well covered. However, the most useful section by far is the current affairs chapter that discusses the issues of the NHS, SARs, BSE, the implications of genetic engineering, third world health, MMR and HIV/AIDS. The appendix contains a table of medical school admission policies and stats including mock interview questions. Overall, this book is excellent. I would advise anyone applying or thinking of applying to study Medicine to buy this book. In my experience, the succeding at interview and current affairs sections cover many of the question that you are likely to encounter at interview.
Too patronising and too descriptive an account of PhD life..., 15 Aug 2008
Well if this is what a PhD is about then I'm not going to bother continuing....
I'm not sure who this book is aimed at - I guess it you are coming straight from being an undergrad then there is advice in it that might help. Having worked as a research assistant for a couple of years I had a vague idea of what a PhD entailed before starting and for me this book wasn't at all helpful, except maybe to reinforce the fact that you are very much in charge of your own destiny.
My overall thoughts are that the book is heavily descriptive and for me, it felt a little patronising. What was being mentioned was too obvious - male tutor might seduce female student in exchange for good marks - and in reference to that topic an incredibly depressing account of academic institutions!
Personally I prefer Rugg and Petre - The Unwritten Rules of PhD Research which focuses on the more practical elements such as writing style, presentations, networking.
Extremely Helpful, 20 Oct 2007
As I was about to embark on PhD study I bought and read this book following amazon customer recommendations and I am very glad I did. It is written in a style which is easy to understand and is honest in its approach. It gives helpful advice, but does not shy against the more difficult side of PhD research. Having been on my course for only 2 weeks I find myself using some of the advice already. I intend to keep this throughout my course of study and refer to it on a regular basis. I would recommend this book to anyone who is thinking of embarking on a PhD or even those already on one who need encouragement. It is well worth the money.
Calling all Ph.D students., 17 Mar 2006
I am a currently a final year Ph.D student, enrolled in the Psychology Department at the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne. I read this book during my first year of study and I found it a valuable resource in getting started. Those of you who are yourselves Ph.D students will know how difficult it is to know where to start your research and the lack of help/guidance many students receive (although of course this depends on your supervisor and your department specifically). I personally received little help and was primarily left alone to 'get on with it'. This was very daunting to say the least. This book is therefore a good place for those in a similar position to start. I recommend the book for either those who have recently embarked on a PhD or for those who are considering it. The book may also be valuable to those who are just starting out as academics and are new to research supervision. There are 12 chapters in total. 1) Becoming a postgraduate: This is a very brief chapter, containing general information about whats expected during the three years of study and the PhD degree itself. The chapter also outlines the structure and aims of the book in general. 2) Getting into the system: Chapter Two contains information about choosing a course, both in terms of your supervisors, subject and the institution you will be attending. It is important that you ensure your are happy in all of these area's, as a PhD is a long hard slog. This chapter is really only suitable for those who have yet to apply. 3) The nature of a Ph.D qualification: Chapter Three discusses what's expected of a PhD student, what you should be aiming for by studying for a PhD and the overall point of the qualification. This is discussed both from the student and the supervisor perspective. 4) How not to get a Ph.D: This is a fairly self-explanatory chapter and deals with issues such as not to overestimate or underestimate what's expected, not understanding what is required, losing contact with supervisors and not leaving adequate time to write up. There are lots of useful examples in this section and it is one of the best overall. 5) How to do research: This chapter discusses the characteristics of good research and the most common types of research and methodologies. In addition sources of electronic support and discussion are outlined, which may be helpful if students are struggling to get help internally. This chapter contains really useful tips and advice, it is also one of the most useful chapters. 6) The form of a Ph.D thesis: This chapter discussed the finished product, e.g. the actual thesis that will be submitted at the end of the three years of study. This section includes advice on the structure of the thesis, how to lay out chapters and some tips of writing skills, originality and theory. 7) The Ph.D process: This chapter discusses what you should expect during the three years you are completing your PhD. Deals with topics such as isolation, time management, boredom, frustration, deadlines and the development of transferrable skills. Again, I would say that this is one of the most useful chapters of the book. 8) How to manage you supervisor: This chapter discusses what's expected of your supervisor and how much of a role you can expect him/her to play. Highlights the importance of regular meetings and progress reports but also that esentially the PhD is an independent process. This section also deals with handling potential problems including what happens if you want to change supervisors and if you want to make a formal complaint. 9) How to survive in a premomineantly British, white, male, full-time academic environment: Covers areas such as sexual harassment, racism and disabilities and how to deal with these factors. This chapter is not really that applicable to me and thus I only skim read it. 10) The formal procedures: This chapter primarily deals with the submission of your thesis, the selection of examiners and tips on how to handle the 'viva' - the oral exam which takes place at the end of a PhD and which is generally dreaded by all students. There are also tips on getting funding and going into post doctoral research following a PhD. 11) How to supervise and examine: Generally this chapter focuses on the student-supervisor relationship but is geared mostly towards the supervisors perspective and thus isn't very useful for students. 12) Institutional responsibilities: This chapter discusses the training of both supervisors and students. What you should expect from your university and your supervisor overall, the resources and support you are entitled to and also what they will expect from you! Each of these chapters are broken down clearly into sections making in easy for readers to access the bits that are relevant. There's also a clear index at the back and many references should the reader feel they need additional help. The book is well written and avoids jargon. Although it can be a little hard going at times, this is too be expected given the topic and the necessity of covering all relevant issues. The book isn't designed to be a pleasurable read, it is designed to be a factual resource. On the negative side one disadvantage is the fact that the book is fairly subject specific and tends to give examples from buisness studies students on the whole. This is a shame as sometimes the examples are a little irrelevant. I also feel that the book would benefit from an increased emphasis on scientific writing skills in general. This is one area that students commonly struggle with, yet it is primarily neglected throughout. It's also expensive at £19 but the book is a really useful resource throughout your PhD and is sure to be a valuable source of information. If you are willing to buy secondhand, the book is currently available at Amazon.co.uk from around £15. In addition students should have access to a university library where the book is likely to be available. In summary this book is definitely worth a read if you are a first year PhD student who feels out of their depth and all in all, I do recommend it. However, because of the price and the subject-specific examples I give the book four stars.
How to get a PhD?, 05 Aug 2005
I bought an earlier edition of this book in the early 1990s, and it was an excellent aid when I was completing my PhD in the Representation of the Past in Museums. I brought it to the attention of my Supervisor, who was equally impressed after overcoming his initial sceptism. I recently gave the latest edition of "How to Get a PhD" to my son, who is undertaking his PhD in Radar Tomography and Upper Polar Atmospheric Physics. He is as equally impressed. What greater accolade can a book be given? It is a wonderful read, offering essential practical advice. An essential purchase for postgraduates and their supervisors.
Great book! Talks honestly & suggests lots of useful advice., 28 Sep 2004
This book is really written in an honest way and explains the administrative procedures of a British PhD system. It talks about the fears and uncertatainties which PhD students face and talks about the traps in which one should never fall into. It talks in depth about the risk of over-estimating the amount of work required for a PhD which can lead to failure. After reading this book I realised I wasn't just a weird guy thinking about nonsense but many people have the same fears and thoughts. It really helped me relax and take a more realistic view of the goals. It helped me in having a great time during my PhD. One piece of advice: Loneliness should not be underestimated! If you have a healthy social life, it can help you go through the though times.
It worked for us, 06 Dec 2007
When my daughter was applying for university we bought the Virgin Guide and friends bought other guides so we could all swap. I preferred this one although it doesn't give huge detail about individual courses. Where it seems to score is on giving an accurate flavour of how it will feel to be at a particular university for 3 or more years. My daughter is in her 2nd year now and re-reading what the Virgin Guide said about her university and the city, I think the portrayal of the whole experience is remarkably accurate.
Shoulda read this before applying, 10 Nov 2007
This is by far the best guide to what it is like to actualy live at university and the practicalities of studying there which goes beyond league tables. It gives rankings of elements of a non academic nature such as the male female split and the national football/hockey/rugby rankings. It also rates the social life, and this is where I fell down. Because I ignored the advice of this book before I applied I am now at a university whose course is in the top 10 in the times however socially I hate it. I am now using this guide to help inform my decision on where to transfer to. I beg you to read this guide carefully and make a decision based on this and academic league tables, it will save your future and your life. Ive wasted 5 weeks at a university I now hate and as a result have missed the deadlines for one of the Oxbridge courses I wanted to re-appy for.
Generaly I dislike richard branson and most of his products (especially his trains) but this is one virgin brand product which is definately worth the investment.
excellent book, 22 Apr 2006
This is a great book, it is very comprehensive, covers issues that are not covered in other books, like relation with supervisor. It is quite a helpful guide to survivie the hardships of doing a PhD. It is very well presented, well written, and amusing as well as informative.
to know about realities of PhD life, 13 Mar 2005
I found the book very interesting and helpful for understanding the nature of PhD life and the realities in it. The writing style is informal and the writers comment on issues more from their understanding rather than refereing to other sources. Some short memos about some famous people and how they have got their PhD makes the reading more exciting and the reader more eager to continue. However the book is based on the experineces from UK educational system and assumes that the interest of the reader is in UK universities.The book mentiones many practicalities in this respect to do research and being a PhD student in UK. However the book avoids discussing about how the research should be conducted or suitable research methods to use. Through reading the book I have a guess that the writer's own research area are in the field of Business and Management and their comments as I see are at least very valid in the area of Business and Management.
What a Gem!, 22 Feb 2005
I was a bit shy looking for a book of this kind and apprehensive towards investing in it (not a fan of How To...s), but I was down and it had a student-friendly price tag. It turned out to be a most excellent find! The book material deals with (the less explored) PhD related issues from its conception to delivery. It is not the only book of its kind to promise to divert the reader towards the murky areas of the PhD world that are not readily illuminated by other sources (university, department, supervisors), but this one does so in such a warm, human and humorous way, that I quite forgot about its How To roots. Unexpectedly, it reads like a piece of fiction. I was much amused by the tone of the narration and the scattered anecdotes on famous people, it does help to digest the (many) parts that deal with serious and sensitive project issues. The authors are clearly fresh from their own scarring experiences and I found myself coaxed into to assessing my own situation honestly and seeking their advice. As friendly as the book is, it's honest and uncompromising, I appreciate that. Things are now moving on for me, but I continue to find it useful on different topics (quite the companion). Apart from hair-tearing PhD students, I'd also recommend the book to prospective PhD students (at that stage I didn't get half of the sound advice presented here), past PhD students (I am sure we'll all laugh at it afterwards), and everyone else for a plain good read.
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Customer Reviews
Perfect, 16 Nov 2008
Firstly Ignore the Negative Reviews.
I am a Medical Applicant(A Levels), and this book is brilliant.
It covers all the most asked medical interview questions as well as some thought provoking ethical and difficult situation questions.
It guides you through what points to include as well as sample answers for each of the 151 questions.
However it also provides the information in such a way that is provokes you into thought and you come up with answers better than the sample ones.
In summary.
- Applying for Medicine Buy it.
- It is not for a consultants position at all.
- It contains questions which have been asked in past medical interviews for School leavers and graduates, as well as mature applicants.
- Must read!
- Questions based on UK Medical School interviews.
Essential book for your medical school interview preparation, 19 Aug 2008
I bought this book for my son who applied to med school in four difficult universities. The techniques are very well described, backed up with good pertinent examples that can be used to forge one's own answers. The discussions on ethical issues are extremely useful and to the point. I thoroughly recommend it. It may cost a few quids more than other books but it will make a massive difference to your success rate. My son got offers from all the universities he applied to and will be starting at Manchester Medical School soon.
The only book you'll ever need for getting into medical school, 02 May 2008
Using this book got me 2/4 offers for medicine (after using it for 2 interviews). The book does exactly what it says on the cover. It goes into extensive detail on how to answer a range of questions, from explaining how to tackle ethical scenarios, euthanasia and abortion issues to | | |