

Saving someone’s life is perhaps one of the most remarkable feelings in the world. Even so, not so many of us have the chance to experience this. It takes passion, a strong personality and years of study to be able to work in the medical field.
Pursuing a Medical degree is not only challenging and demanding but also competitive. Medical degrees are shaped for people who show high motivation and commitment as well as interest for sciences.
Throughout a Medicine degree, candidates are equipped with a wide range of competences, from practical abilities required for specialized hands-on tasks to communication skills needed to interact with the patients. Thus, any medical students will be able to take a simple blood sample as well as perform a complex surgical procedure.
Undoubtedly, medicine is one of the most vital fields of work – therefore there will always be a high demand of workforce needed. The employment rate for a medical graduate student is of 90%.
Due to its diverse branches, graduates from a Medical course have a variety of career choices, according to their expertise. Nursing, radiology, anaesthetics are just some of the many specialities offered in this field. Regardless of the speciality, the most important aspect needed to be taken into consideration is that medical professionals are well-respected and well-paid all over the world.
Additionally, graduates possess a series of transferable skills, such as logical reasoning, critical appraisal, listening, written and oral communication and many others. These assets are sought and highly valuable in most fields of work.
Medical courses are usually a six-year commitment, but it can vary according to the university. Most of the modern universities integrate clinical education with basic sciences from the beginning of the academic curriculum, while traditional institutions divide them into preclinical and clinical education.
Most schools understand the importance of practical knowledge, especially in this field, therefore they encourage the students to observe professional healthcare practitioners. Another way to gain practical experience is to go to different clinics and receive specialised training, followed by actual practical work.
No matter the practices of the university, always keep in mind that medical courses are structured differently in every country. Therefore, medical qualifications gained in one country are not necessarily recognised in another country.
Studying second-year Medicine at the Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC) has been a truly enriching experience. From the very first day, I would highlight the great atmosphere among students: there are classmates from Barcelona as well as from many other cities, all very kind and always willing to help, which creates a friendly and collaborative environment.
The organization of the schedule is also remarkable. Theoretical classes take place in the afternoon, usually for about four hours, while practical sessions, held on some mornings, complement the learning experience. This structure allows students to have enough time to study and stay well organized.
The professors teach with great professionalism and clarity, and the students have also created a notes committee that provides quality study materials for most subjects, which is very useful for everyday learning.
Another very positive aspect is the mentorship program, which assigns each new student a mentor from a higher year. Thanks to this system, adapting to the university becomes much easier, as the mentor offers guidance, shares useful information, and helps new students integrate smoothly.
Finally, the campus facilities are excellent, especially for Medicine students. The university is equipped with modern materials and simulation mannequins, allowing students to gain hands-on experience from the very first years.
Overall, studying at UIC Sant Cugat combines solid education, a great atmosphere, and excellent academic resources.