Flying Start

Hello, I am Jimin Lim, your School President this year, and as part of this role, I am presented with the honour of sharing some of my insights about our school and the course that I hope will be of guidance during your time in St. Andrews.

However, before I start, I want to congratulate all of you on getting accepted into one of the best medical schools (in my opinion) in the UK. It is not something that just anyone can accomplish, and I want to ensure that you give yourselves enough credit for your effort.

This leads to one of the insights I wanted to share with you: believe in yourself and do not be too harsh on yourself. Medicine is a course that requires both academic diligence and a balance between leisure and your studies; you might find this difficult to achieve at first, but please do not interpret it in a negative light. You have made it into Medical School; that is more than enough evidence to prove that you do belong here, and you need to have sufficient belief in yourself. Trust that the mistakes you make now will become one of your greatest strengths in your future years because that is what will happen after the short bitterness subsides.

Additionally, do not be afraid to ask questions, whether that is the staff, such as Medicine Support, or your peers. There is no such thing as a wrong question, and it will eventually lead to academic and personal growth during your time at the University. Look around, be curious, and delve into the various activities the University offers you, including the wide range of societies and roles inside the school such as Class Representatives and beyond. Class Representatives, elected from each year group, will be working with me in the upcoming academic year to become the bridge between the students and staff, so do not hesitate to run for it if you are interested.

Lastly, as your School President, I will always be here to answer any questions and listen to your concerns and suggestions. Please feel free to approach me if you have any queries, I will be in the School of Medicine building during orientation week, and you will often see me in the Main Library after school hours once classes begin.

Once again, a warm welcome and congratulations for joining us on this journey, and I hope this course brings you personal growth on top of the academic success that will lead you one step closer to the health professional you wish to become.

Congratulations! You made it to Med School! As you wrap up your summer adventures and embark on this new journey, I hope you can battle the jitters with all the excitement and curiosity that starting university brings. It is an amazing experience, and we at the Medical School and the associated student societies have lots in store for you!

So, who am I? I’m Ayra, the President of the Bute Medical Society for the next academic year. I am thrilled to be welcoming you to St Andrews in September! Be it at the Medical School, the many Bute events or St Andrew’s three streets, you will be sure to catch me somewhere – I guarantee it. So, please come say hi! I would love to chat, answer any questions, or offer my expertise on the best cafés in town. I am a croissant connoisseur first and foremost.

Um… what is the Bute Medical Society? It is only the biggest, oldest, (best) and most well-established student society at the University of St Andrews! It boasts an active student body of 550 members and is an integral part of medic life for most of us here. Being a medical society, Bute offers recreational events that are easy to balance alongside intense studies. Being a medic and a Butie go hand in hand. Bute is intrinsic to the Medical School, and we often co-organise events and research opportunities for students to get involved in. Whilst most of our members are undergraduate and postgraduate medics, we are open to anyone keen on exploring the medical field. Our committees exceptional work means we often yield university awards such as ‘’Best Event,’ ‘Best Society’… the list goes on! As we approach the 110th anniversary of the Bute Medical Society, be prepared for events bigger and better than ever before. We’re going all out this year, and we’d love for you to join us. Some events to jot on your calendars…

Hecklings: Shrouded in mystery, Hecklings is a welcome social for all medic freshers. Held in the first few weeks of Martinmas, it involves crazy challenges and treasure hunts. Memorable (for some) and notoriously fun, every St Andrews medic has a story from Hecklings. I’d tell you more, but I signed an NDA.

Balls: We strive to help you blow off steam in good ol’ Bute fashion; with music, ceilidh dancing, delicious food, and other delights. For this reason, Bute is big on balls. We host three incredible formals:

1. Hippocrates: Our wonderful welcome ball poised in the first semester to help you to get to know other medics!
2. Bute Ball: Our pride and joy, heralding our return in the New Year. Always a gem to remember.
3. St Vitus: Our summer ball celebrating the end of exams and sending off our third year comrades in style.

The best part? Bute subsidises all these events, so we’re known for being the best value for money in town. Ah, the benefits of being a Butie.

Research events:  We encourage our members to be innovators in their fields and expand their horizons. Bute hosts the Bute Innovation Leadership Forum, our impressive inter-societal speaker competition that aims to promote the researching and presenting skills of our members. Bute also advertises opportunities and offers academic talks on what interests you. Be it Surgery or the integration of Medicine and AI, our speakers inspire our members to venture into new areas of research and industry. Many of our speakers are our Med Dems, who teach us in clinical skills and dissection classes.

Sports teams: Teaming up with your fellow Buties to annihilate the other team is an excellent way to boost morale! Bute FC, Bute Rugby, Bute Hockey and Bute Netball have all been big hitters in the past, but we are very much open to sharing the love with an array of other sports and getting a team started. Matches are flexible around the hectic medicine timetable, so medics with commitment issues fear not! With teams of varying abilities and no pressure, it’s a great opportunity to start something new. We are always on the lookout for new members!

Charity events: Pub quiz? Bake off? Fun run? Bute is not afraid to host the classic, fantastic events you love to raise money for our two annually chosen charities. Hugely popular and filled with great energy, our charity events are designed to be a chill way to unwind.  Who wouldn’t want their histology lecturer to join the pub quiz and grill them on Rihanna’s biggest hits?

Bute Revue: You’ll quickly get to know the lecturers and Med Dems. What better way to end the year than make fun of them and your fellow medics at a comedy show? Undoubtedly one of the most iconic Bute events of the year. Just wait and see…

What should you be on the lookout for during Freshers’ Week?

Alongside all the events, gatherings and exploring during Freshers’ Week, the Medical School has some things planned to help introduce you to fellow students and staff:

Family tours: Alongside staff, the Bute committee will have the pleasure of guiding you and your families/guardians around the Medical School to explore where you’ll be spending the next three years. Whilst you might remember some aspects from your interviews, this will be your first opportunity to check it out for real! Feel free to ask your guides (second and third year medics) any questions that you may have. Tea and coffee will also be provided! Do not worry if you are unable to attend these tours, as there will be ample opportunity to explore the school throughout the week.

Introduction: Alongside introductory talks on Monday from staff, you’ll be able to meet Jimin, the School of Medicine President, and myself to hear more about what we do for med students.

Meet Your Group Sessions: You will be shown around the Medical School by current students once more in your assigned groups. This serves as a great way to get to know your fellow group members; these are the folk you’ll be spending clinical practice sessions with!

Bute BBQ Social: Our long-standing tradition is a Bute BBQ on Monday evening in the Medicine Courtyard. Feel free to grab some food, relax and mingle. Vegetarian and vegan options will also be available.

Medics Freshers’ Fayre: All medical societies and unions will have a stall for you to ask questions and sign up. Most societies will be on the lookout for some First Year Representatives to join the committee. Being a First Year Rep in my first year was a brilliant way to meet some people, especially from other year groups – would highly recommend applying. You’ll find the Bute stall at Freshers Fayre too!

Bute Bonfire: What better way to kickstart the weekend and explore St Andrews beaches than with a bonfire! Another Bute tradition, hosted on Friday of Freshers Week. Many second and third year students attend the bonfire, so this is a brilliant opportunity to ask questions in a more informal environment!

Help desk: During Orientation Week, we will have a staffed “help desk” by the foyer of the Medical School to help re-direct you or answer any questions! Our staff are very friendly so don’t be afraid to approach them if you are unsure of anything.

Is there anything I can do now?

• Follow @butemedics, @standmedicine and @standrewsunion  on Instagram.
• Join your fellow medics before you come to St Andrews on the “St Andrews Medic Freshers 2024/25” Facebook page.
• If you have any questions for Bute, we would be delighted to help. You can email our secretary on [email protected]
• Congrats! You’re ready for Freshers!

I hope I’ve helped the jitters and given you much to look forward to! I’ve only scratched the surface of what you can expect from us in Martinmas. Freshers’ Week will be bustling with the unpacking, forms to fill out, stethoscopes and lab coats to get hold of. It may be difficult to find a moment to sit back and relax. I’ve found, however, that things have a funny way of falling into place. Eventually.

So, before you enter the gleaming gates of our small, bustling town on the East Coast of Scotland, remember that you have an entire Summer ahead to relax, be proud, and get excited. St Andrews is a truly wonderful place to study. The Bute Medical Society and University of St Andrews look forward to welcoming you in September.

The BSc (Hons) Medicine Professionalism Agreement should be read before arrival – however do not sign the agreement yet – you will discuss the agreement with your personal tutor during Orientation Week and you will have opportunities to ask questions. The 2023-24 version will be uploaded over the summer, meantime 2022/23 version can be read at Click for pdf

Students should be familiar with the School of Medicine Med Handbook.

Click for web based handbook

You will complete an online Disclosure Scotland ‘Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme’ application form with a member of professional services staff.  As soon as your offer becomes unconditional firm (when you have met any and all of your conditions of offer), you should email 3 forms of supporting ID to [email protected]  If your offer is already unconditional firm, please send this information to us as soon as possible. You will be given an individual appointment time for a meeting on Microsoft Teams, please check your emails regularly throughout the summer for further information.

Please familiarise yourself with the online guidance which advises you on the information you will require to complete the online application as you only have 7 days to complete this after your meeting. If you are already a Scheme Member, find out if you are a member for both adults and/or children and also your Scheme membership number as you will need this information at your appointment.

If you are already a PVG scheme member please send us a copy of your most recent certificate along with your IDs. If you do not provide a copy of your PVG certificate your application will be put through as a new scheme member.

The New Entrants page contains important general information for students who are matriculating (registering) at the University for the first time.

Be aware that there are a number of admin tasks to do before you come to St Andrews. You will find a helpful list on the New Entrants page.

University New Entrants page

GMC information for medical students can be read at GMC medical students – education

You will need to have your own stethoscope and laboratory coats for our clinical skills training.

Stethoscopes: We currently recommend the Classic Littmann III stethoscope, which you can find at: Medisave It is very important for your basic training that your stethoscope has both a bell and a diaphragm. The Classic Littmann Classic III is all you need; you will NOT require a specialist cardiology- or electronic stethoscope.

Where do I get a Stethoscope?
Use Google to research this. Both Medisave and the BMA ( British Medical Association) also offer a discount for St Andrews students, Medisave discount is site wide if you enter STANDREWS5 (this discount code is only for use by St Andrews Medical Students, this should not be shared) and BMA offer a discount on stethoscopes from August for students who join.  There are a variety of suppliers and some special deals may be available after you arrive in St Andrews.

Laboratory Coats: You will need a white lab coat for the Dissection Room. We recommend “Howie” type lab coats but any white lab coat that is long sleeved with elasticated wrist and long enough to cover the thighs is acceptable. Ideally, it has snap fasteners (or press studs, instead of buttons) all the way up to the neck for easy opening and can be washed at higher temperatures. Although there are some available for purchase locally at Students Association shop, supplies are limited, therefore it may be better to buy one before you come to St Andrews, some suppliers include:

• Lab Coats – Howie
• Lab Coats – University Shop

Should you be unable to purchase one before the start of term, you can borrow a lab coat from the Anatomy Team, donated by former students, dry-cleaned and in good condition until yours is delivered.

Safety Glasses: You will need your own safety glasses for dissection. There are many suitable types, some examples are:

• Normal type
• ‘Over the Glasses’ type

Example of Dissecting Room lab coat and safety glasses:

NHS Fife expects all staff and medical students to adopt the standards we set for conduct, dress and appearance. The way staff and students dress sends messages about their professionalism and standards of care to service users, carers, colleagues and members of the public.

The following guidance is not meant to be exhaustive but provides a quick framework for students to follow. It is in keeping with NHS Fife Dress Code and Uniform Policy (2020) which aims to ensure that all involved in care delivery maintain safety, convey a professional image and instill and maintain public confidence.

As students learning within a practice environment, you are expected to follow this guidance at all times during hospital or community based placements and also within a simulated clinical environment.

• Wear your identity badge that confirms you are a student.
• Dress in a discreet and professional manner to convey a professional image and create and maintain public confidence.
• Arms should be ‘bare below the elbow’ when delivering clinical care/working in or visiting a clinical area.

Where for religious reasons, students wish to cover their forearms during patient care activity; it is acceptable to wear disposable over-sleeves where gloves are used, with strict adherence to hand and wrist washing before and after use. Over-sleeves must be disposed of as disposable gloves. Where for religious reasons, students wish to cover their upper forearms during patient care activity, it is acceptable to wear three-quarter length sleeves. Three-quarter length sleeves must not be loose or dangling. They must be able to be rolled or pulled back and kept securely in place during hand-washing and direct patient care activity.

• Wear appropriate footwear (clean, in a good state of repair, enclosed heels and toes). Excessively high heels should not be worn. Shoes should be black or navy however it is acknowledged that many staff/students, in particular those involved with moving and handling of patients, prefer to wear trainers. If trainers are worn they should be where possible black or navy, must be clean and made of a non-pervious material.
• Tattoos that could be considered offensive should be covered where this does not compromise good clinical practice.
• Keep hair tied back and off the collar.
• Jewellery is restricted to wearing one plain metal finger ring, any visible body piercings should be plain studs. Wristwatches, fitness tracker wrist- straps and bracelets must not be worn when in clinical areas. Jewellery worn for religious reasons such as Kara bangles worn by initiated Sikhs do not require to be removed for hand decontamination, however, they should be pushed up the arm and secured in place to enable effective hand decontamination and during all direct patient activity.
• Keep finger nails short and clean. No nail varnish, false nails or nail extensions should be worn.
• Cosmetics, perfume and aftershave should be discreet.
• Neck ties or lanyards should not be worn when in clinical areas.
• Pens or scissors should not be carried in outside shirt pockets.
• Store your stethoscope in a safe place such as your pocket or in your bag when moving between clinical areas or during breaks. Stethoscopes should not be worn around the neck.

For the purposes of learning clinical skills students practice non-intimate examinations on each other.  You may therefore also wish to pack some sports wear, such as shorts (and/or leggings) and a t-shirt; or an acceptable suitable equivalent. Examples of clinical dress code are:-

You will need these documents when you are in St Andrews:

• passport
• driving licence
  or an alternative formal piece of identification with your address
  (a bank statement is a good example)
• birth certificate (not a copy)

Immunisation History

 Please remember to bring copies of any documentation related to your past vaccination.  Students are encouraged to keep this record to prove their immunisation history through their studies and working life.  If you have missed any scheduled immunisations and your situation allows please catch up with these prior to starting at St Andrews.  In addition, students are strongly recommended to demonstrate evidence of or take vaccination for BCG, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Influenza and Covid.

Guidance is that all healthcare workers, which includes medical students, should be up to date with their routine immunisations, eg tetanus, diphtheria, polio and MMR. The MMR vaccine is especially important in the context of the ability of healthcare workers/medical students to transmit measles or rubella infections to vulnerable groups. While healthcare workers/medical students may need MMR vaccination for their own benefit, they should also be immune to measles and rubella in order to assist in protecting patients. Satisfactory evidence of protection would include documentation of having received two doses of MMR or having had positive antibody tests for measles and rubella.

Where a student cannot evidence to OH that they have had a BCG (TB) immunisation or have had a negative mantoux or IGRA blood test done in the last 5 years they must be screened and found non infectious prior to commencing clinical work. 

At the time of entry to Medical School students will be screened for tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV infection and any necessary immunisations and antibody tests will be performed. It is strongly recommended that all entrants complete a course of immunisation against Hepatitis B virus in order to fully participate in clinical placements. Applicant students who have/had an infection with Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C or HIV are not precluded from training to be a doctor. This may place restrictions on the student’s clinical training and limit their medical practice following qualification. Students who have/had an infection of this nature and wish to discuss this further before making a decision should contact the Occupational Health Services, via the Pro Dean ([email protected]), who will be able to advise on current policy. Applicants or students who are affected by any of these diseases should consider their position as it may have implications on their future career choices. Further advice can be found in the Medical Schools Council publication Medical and dental students: Health clearance for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and Tuberculosis

During your time as a medical student you will need to be competent with the Microsoft products Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams. Although many of you will have been taught these skills at school there may be a number of you that would benefit from more formal training.

The University offers some IT training resources.

What happens on Monday of Orientation Week?

The School of Medicine orientation begins at 9.00am on Monday of Orientation week with a welcome from the Dean of Medicine, the Director of Teaching and 1st year Module Controllers. This will be delivered online and recorded for those unable to attend. This will be immediately followed by an introduction to the Medical Support Team in the School of Medicine who will guide you through important resources and actions you may need to take early in the semester. The full programme can be found on this page in the medhandbook, linked under ‘Orientation Week’.

The School will be running in-person induction events during orientation week, including some academic events.

Tours of the School of Medicine for parents/families will be available on the Sunday before Orientation Week commences.

What about improving my study skills?

Academic support

There’s a range of support available to help transition your study skills from school to University. The University offers academic and study skills training and resources to all students via the Centre for Educational Enhancement and Development (CEED). This includes one-on-one study skill appointments, skills workshops and online resources. CEED work closely with Medicine and deliver a study skills session to you in Orientation Week, which can be accessed throughout all years of study with us. Throughout the semester, the School will provide hints and tips to help you approach your studies effectively. We will also provide practice opportunities to help familiarise you with the exam formats.

You will be allocated a personal tutor who will meet with you periodically to discuss your progress. Your tutor will also help you identify and reflect on the support you may need to balance your studies with the other opportunities available to you as a student of our University.

The School also supports the student-led Peer Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS) who can provide support to you as a new student. The welcome message below from their current lead coordinator outlines many of the ways they’ll help you adjust to studying at University.

Peer Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS)

Welcome to PALS at St Andrews!

Hi there, welcome to Medical School! I’m Sushmhitah Sandanatavan, your lead coordinator for PALS.  PALS is a mentoring scheme run by students, for students of the BSc (Hons) Medicine course, to provide peer assisted support within the medical school. We know the jump from high school to medicine can be huge and we’re here to help you manage that transition by providing extra help regarding study skills and advice from those who have experienced it already. Keep reading to see how we can support you!

• Mentor-Mentee Scheme

We run the Mentor-Mentee Scheme, which connects first-year students with experienced second and third-year mentors. Sign-ups will be available at the Medic Freshers’ Fayre Stall, with mentee registration starting in September. This also leads us into our first event…

• Mentor-Mentee Mixer

We’re excited to host the first-ever Mentor-Mentee Mixer in the medical school café and courtyard during Week 2. This networking session will be a fantastic opportunity to meet your mentors, fellow freshers, and enjoy a little bite to eat. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get to know others and make new friends! You’ll also have a Welcome talk from your School of Medicine President and myself. It’s a perfect chance to get to know your President and to meet the rest of the PALS committee, make sure to attend so you can chat and get to know the people behind PALS!

• Study Skills

Last year’s Study Skills event was a success, and we’re planning another one to introduce effective study strategies tailored for medical school. We’ll cover flashcard apps, study methods, and advice on balancing activities with studies, with a range of speakers. We’ll guide you through all your revision options, especially if flashcards aren’t your thing and you would like to know other methods to revise!

• Clinical Skills and Content Revision

We’re thrilled to announce a series of dynamic and interactive revision sessions focused on clinical skills and lecture content throughout the year. These sessions are designed to enhance your understanding of and confidence in essential medical skills. Led by our dedicated staff and experienced fellow students, each session will provide hands-on practice and real-world applications. Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates, session schedules, and sign-up details.

• Mock APE and Mock OSCE at PALS

We organise comprehensive Mock Anatomy Practical Exams (APEs) and Mock Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) to help you prepare for practical exams. These sessions are designed to mimic actual exam conditions, providing a realistic, pressure-free practice environment. Our mock exams are helpful for boosting students’ confidence, offering personalised feedback to identify improvement areas. Notably, one of our mock OSCE stations appeared in the actual exam last year. Do not miss these essential preparation opportunities – they can be a game changer!

• Newsletter

We’re excited to introduce our new PALS Newsletter! By signing up, you’ll receive the latest updates and resources. Each edition includes practice questions and expert revision tips. This is more than just a newsletter – it’s your go-to guide for staying informed and inspired throughout your medical school journey. Stay tuned!

Lead Coordinator: Sushmhitah Sandanatavan

Secretary: Manal Alam

Academic Coordinator: Fergus Jajdelski

Clinical Coordinator: Amrit Dhillon

MD3000 Representative: Kaavya Chandrasekar

Get in Touch!

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

– Feel free to reach out via email at [email protected]

-Join our Whatsapp Group Chat (with 100 members already!) to stay up to date with upcoming events + updates! https://chat.whatsapp.com/JE6O5IA07IxB4UCW5VRs3j

– Follow us on Instagram to stay up to date as well! instagram.com/pals_st.andrews

Here’s to an amazing year ahead at St Andrews, where your medical journey truly begins. We are here to support you every step of the way, and we can’t wait to see all that you will achieve. Let’s make this year the best one yet!

Welcome to the PALS family 🙂

Are there any classes in Orientation Week?

Yes. During orientation week there will be a full programme of in-person introductory classes specifically organised by the School of Medicine for new medical students – where possible these will be recorded for those who are unable to attend due from the beginning of the week due to logistical issues. Your attendance at these classes is essential since they will help you to find your feet in the early stages of your medical course, and we would encourage you to ensure you watch the recording of any session you miss during the week as soon as possible.

Useful tips and advice from your School President

• Engage with the Orientation Programme and Events: There are plenty of facilities around the school that are worth knowing, and Galen is definitely helpful if you take plenty of time to explore its functions. Look at every nook and cranny during Orientation week and bring out the explorer in you! However, don’t be afraid if you don’t remember everything in one go because that is normal.
• Try out and be open to different study methods: Medical school differs from high school. Thus, it is worth looking at diverse study methods and finding out which suits you best. Don’t be afraid if a study method you thought would work out doesn’t; trial and error are essential in medical school.
• Learn how to make a realistic plan: Planning is easy to do but being realistic needs practice; set a goal of what you ‘want’ to do and what you are ‘able’ to do and prioritise a few things that you ‘can’ do and ‘should’ do.
• Balance studying and well-being: Medical school does seem like a lot, but it doesn’t mean you should spend all your time studying. Enjoy spending time with friends or by yourself to make sure you get to relax, thus taking care of yourself so that you do not burn out. This also means getting plenty of sleep.
• Get involved in plenty of societies: You don’t have to join a lot of societies or go and try out every activity, but since there are a lot of societies, it is always worth having a look around and picking a few that you would like to have continuous interest in. You can always explore freely and decide to join the committee in your second or third year.
• Don’t be afraid to approach other medical students: It is expected to be nervous when meeting new people, but remember, all the other freshers feel like that, too! Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with them because, deep down, they might want to talk too. Also, do not hesitate to approach students in different years; we love answering questions, giving advice, or just chatting about how bad the weather is.
• Do not be intimidated: I get that when first entering medical school, it might seem huge, scary, and intimidating. However, I want to emphasise that it is perfectly okay not to understand something straight away and you may have lots of questions you want to ask. Therefore, feel free to ask staff questions after a lecture or when you see them in the School café; they are very friendly and eager to answer questions.

Current students have provided the following information on what they would have liked to have known to help them transition into life at medical school

1. You are coming into an environment where everyone is extremely talented, the best of the best, and deserving of being here so don’t be disheartened if you’re grades are average or feel you are struggling
2. Be prepared to change your study technique! Look into evidence-based study techniques such as spaced repetition and active recall before starting university (it’s also okay to change during and in between semesters)
3. Help each other as you’re all going through the same experience and are in the same boat
4. Try not to compare yourself to other students! Everyone has their own unique skill set and moves at a different pace
5. Remember to take breaks and have a life out with medical school e.g. hobbies and socials
6. The importance of organisation and being able to adapt to different and unfamiliar situations
7. Try and relate what your are learning in the lectures to that in clinical skills, dissection, communication skills, and placement – remember the bigger picture
8. Remember a career in medicine is a life of continued learned, the foundations are important and the spiral curriculum
9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help in any aspect of university life – there are so many areas of support out there
10. Remember to have fun and enjoy your time as a medical student