Smart Talk Series 2021 | Dr Amalina Che Bakri

Welcome to the British Council Study UK Smart Talk Webinar

Introduction and Sponsorship

• The session begins with a warm welcome from the host, Fraser, introducing the first session of the British Council's Study UK Smart Talk webinar series for 2021.

• Sponsored by Qatar Airways, recognized as Airline of the Year by Skytrax for six times, highlighting its accolades in various categories such as business class and onboard catering.

Qatar Airways Student Club Benefits

• Qatar Airways offers exclusive benefits through its student club program, including 1,500 bonus Q Miles upon enrollment using promo code BCSC21. This aims to support students throughout their educational journey.

• A short promotional video is shown about Qatar Airways' services tailored for students, emphasizing comfort and connectivity during travel.

Housekeeping and Session Overview

• Fraser provides housekeeping notes: the session is recorded for later sharing on social media; questions submitted during registration are incorporated into the discussion; live questions can be posted in a Q&A box.

• The guest speaker is introduced: Dr. Amelina Bakery, a general surgeon and clinical research fellow at Imperial College London, known for her contributions to medicine and women's empowerment. She has received multiple accolades in her field.

Dr. Amelina Bakery's Journey During COVID-19

Personal Experience in Medicine

• Dr. Bakery shares her experience over the past 18 months during the pandemic, describing it as "crazy busy" with significant challenges faced by medical professionals due to high patient volumes and staff shortages. She worked three 24-hour shifts weekly caring for COVID patients while also managing her responsibilities as a general surgeon.

Mental Health Impact

• The overwhelming nature of treating COVID patients took a toll on Dr. Bakery’s mental health; she witnessed daily fatalities which contributed to physical and emotional exhaustion during this period of uncertainty about treatment protocols for COVID-19 patients.

Involvement in Vaccine Trials

• Despite challenges, Dr. Bakery participated in AstraZeneca vaccine trials as part of a research team responsible for recruiting healthy volunteers for phases one and two of the study, showcasing resilience amidst adversity in healthcare settings during the pandemic.

COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts and Personal Journey

Public Health Initiatives in the UK

• The NHS and Public Health England collaborated with Downing Street and the UN to combat misinformation regarding COVID-19 vaccines. This initiative included public Q&A sessions at 10 Downing Street, emphasizing the importance of accurate information dissemination.

• Misinformation surrounding COVID-19 and its vaccines is prevalent, making it crucial for healthcare professionals to provide correct information to help the public understand vaccine science.

Current Situation in the UK

• The vaccination rate in the UK has significantly improved, with approximately 80% of individuals aged 12 and older fully vaccinated, while about 85% have received at least one dose. This indicates a positive shift towards normalcy as society learns to coexist with the virus.

• The UK government’s approach now focuses on living alongside COVID-19 while remaining vigilant, allowing shops to reopen and travel to resume as part of adapting to ongoing challenges posed by the virus.

Personal Journey into Medicine

• The speaker expresses gratitude for healthcare workers' efforts during the pandemic, leading into a discussion about their motivation for pursuing medicine from a young age—stemming from childhood interests in anatomy books and playing doctor.

• After completing their GCSE equivalent exams (SBM), they received a scholarship from Malaysia's central bank to study in the UK, marking a significant step toward their medical career aspirations. They chose this path due to high-quality education opportunities available in renowned British universities.

Educational Pathway

• The speaker attended Cheltenham Ladies College for A-level studies after exploring various boarding schools through discussions at the British Council in Kuala Lumpur, ultimately deciding on studying medicine in the UK due to its prestigious institutions like Edinburgh, Cambridge, and Imperial College London.

• Emphasizing diversity within UK educational settings, they noted that international students are welcomed warmly; this environment fosters cultural exchange among students from various backgrounds while providing access to rich culinary experiences across different cuisines available throughout London.

Life Beyond Academics

• Living in London offers numerous activities ranging from visiting museums and theaters to enjoying nature walks in royal parks or historical sites; this balance between urban life and countryside exploration enriches personal experiences outside academia. Their connection with Wiltshire highlights family visits as part of maintaining personal relationships amidst busy schedules.

Choosing a University: Factors and Experiences

Initial Considerations for University Selection

• The speaker reflects on the beauty of their home environment, indicating a strong emotional connection to it.

• When selecting an undergraduate university, rankings are a significant factor, but personal preferences also play a crucial role.

• The speaker visited multiple cities in the UK (London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol, Cambridge, Oxford) to assess their suitability for living and studying.

Experience at Edinburgh University

• Upon arriving in Edinburgh, the speaker was captivated by its historical architecture and vibrant city center.

• Edinburgh University was among the top three medical schools in the UK when the speaker applied; this influenced their decision to study medicine there.

Medical School Journey

• The medical school experience is described as intense with a mix of lectures and practical placements in hospitals.

• The first two years focused on basic sciences such as anatomy and physiology before transitioning into practical rotations during the third year.

Balancing Academics and Extracurricular Activities

• During hospital rotations, students could be placed far from Edinburgh; however, they still found time for social activities.

• The speaker participated in various societies including musical theater during their studies which enriched their university experience.

Personal Growth Through Education

• A key lesson learned was to embrace one's identity and express opinions freely within a multicultural environment like London.

• Engaging with diverse communities fostered respect for different cultures and beliefs while encouraging outspoken discussions on important topics.

Future Academic Plans Post-Graduation

• Studying at prestigious universities opened up numerous research opportunities that guided the speaker's future academic pursuits.

Career Development and Experiences in Medicine

Support and Guidance in Medical Career

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of support from renowned consultant surgeons during their medical training, which helped them not only become a good doctor but also learn survival skills for their working life.

• They highlight how guidance was crucial in determining their career path in surgery and medicine.

Internship Experience at Harvard

• After completing medical school, the speaker undertook an internship at Harvard to explore career options between the UK and the US.

• They worked at Massachusetts General Hospital focusing on surgery and surgical oncology, gaining firsthand experience of the healthcare system in the US.

Challenges Faced During Residency

• The speaker describes the demanding nature of residency shifts in the US, noting that they often worked 90 to 200 hours a week with long shifts, including 48-hour stints every alternate weekend.

• Despite finding it challenging, they ultimately decided to return to pursue their career in surgery within the UK.

Balancing Surgery and PhD Studies

• Currently a general surgeon at Imperial College while pursuing a PhD, they discuss managing time effectively amidst clinical duties and academic commitments.

• Their daily schedule varies significantly based on clinical shifts and patient recruitment for research trials.

Time Management Strategies

• The speaker stresses the importance of identifying urgent tasks and taking breaks to maintain productivity over time.

• They utilize tools like Google Calendar for planning months ahead to meet deadlines related to both clinical work and academic responsibilities.

Social Media Engagement

• The speaker mentions having over 800 thousand followers on social media as a hobby initiated by encouragement from one of their bosses who wanted to highlight diversity within NHS doctors.

• Initially reluctant about being public-facing, they were convinced due to discussions surrounding NHS contributions from international doctors.

Social Media as a Tool for Health Education

The Journey of Using Social Media

• The speaker shares their experience of creating a Twitter account after being recognized by a mentor, leading to viral attention and thousands of follower requests from Malaysians.

• Initially considering deactivation, the speaker decided to leverage the platform for public health education, focusing on medical topics they are passionate about.

• Transitioning to Instagram, the speaker emphasizes their current focus on women's health through short educational videos addressing taboo subjects.

Importance of Discussion and Awareness

• The speaker highlights the significance of discussing often-overlooked topics like sexual education from a medical perspective to foster awareness.

• They express passion for women empowerment and aim to inspire younger generations through their social media presence.

Combating Misinformation on Social Media

Addressing Fake News

• Acknowledging the dual nature of social media, the speaker discusses challenges posed by misinformation and fake news while sharing positive information.

• They engage in honest conversations with followers to understand concerns related to misinformation and address them effectively.

Strategies for Engagement

• Conducting Q&A sessions on Instagram allows followers to ask questions about their health concerns, which helps clarify misconceptions based on evidence-based medicine.

• The speaker has also created TikTok content aimed at younger audiences, using fun videos to discuss relevant health topics.

Challenges and Mental Health Considerations

Navigating Negativity Online

• The speaker acknowledges reluctance among healthcare professionals regarding social media due to potential negativity but stresses its importance in modern communication.

• They share personal experiences with cyberbullying and hate messages but emphasize learning how to cope with such negativity over time.

Maintaining Positive Energy

• Focusing on mental health is crucial; the speaker advises ignoring negative comments while channeling energy into constructive activities that benefit others.

• Their commitment remains strong in fighting misinformation online while continuing efforts in educating people about important health issues.

Empowering Future Generations

Inspiring Young Women

• The discussion shifts towards empowering young women interested in international education and future career paths, encouraging them to pursue their passions confidently.

Encouraging Women in Surgery

The Importance of Representation

• The speaker aims to encourage more women to enter the field of surgery, highlighting that only 13 female consultant surgeons were recorded in the UK as of 2020.

• While the number of female consultants and trainees is increasing, there remains a significant gap between those entering training and those achieving consultant status.

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of representation and role models for young women considering careers in medicine and surgery.

Inspiring Future Generations

• The speaker believes everyone has potential regardless of their background, stressing the need for proper guidance and relatable role models.

• Their mission is to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams in medicine or any specialty, reinforcing self-belief.

Cultural Adaptation: Living in the UK vs. Malaysia

Similarities Between Cultures

• The speaker notes similarities such as strong work ethics and family orientation prevalent in both Malaysian and UK cultures.

• They highlight London's multicultural environment, making it easier for Malaysians to find community and enjoy familiar cuisine.

Differences Faced

• Weather differences are significant; the UK is colder with frequent rain compared to Malaysia's tropical climate.

• Despite enjoying green spaces like royal parks in London, they miss family back home, especially during pandemic travel restrictions.

Advice for International Students Moving to the UK

Preparation Tips

• Prospective students should utilize online resources for preparation before arriving in the UK, including clothing suitable for winter conditions.

• Engaging with current or former students can provide valuable insights into adapting to life in the UK.

Exploring Life in the UK for International Students

Preparing for Life in the UK

• The speaker discusses the climate in London, noting it may be slightly warmer than expected. Preparation through online research about specific locations and cultural stereotypes is emphasized.

Embracing Diversity

• Advice is given to international students to be themselves and engage with diverse groups rather than isolating within their own communities. Socializing with people from various backgrounds is encouraged.

• The importance of learning about different cultures, religions, and lifestyles while studying in the UK is highlighted as a valuable opportunity for personal growth.

Getting Involved

• Students are urged to participate in various societies and activities at universities instead of spending all their time studying alone. This involvement can enhance their overall experience.

• Universities offer numerous social clubs and activities, especially during open days at the start of terms, which help students integrate into campus life.

Pathways into Medical Specialization

• A transition to discussing medical training pathways in the UK begins, focusing on entry into pediatrics and neurosurgery.

• To practice medicine in the UK, obtaining a General Medical Council (GMC) license is necessary. This involves passing exams like IELTS and completing application forms.

National Recruitment Process

• After acquiring a GMC license, candidates must apply through a national recruitment program similar to the US matching system. Interviews will assess qualifications across multiple stations.

• Candidates are ranked nationally based on performance during interviews; higher rankings allow preference for desired work regions within the UK.

Regional Work Preferences

• Competitive regions such as London or Oxford require high rankings for placement due to limited opportunities available there.

Training Recognition for International Clinicians

• Those who have trained abroad must provide evidence that their qualifications meet UK standards before being eligible for specialist registration.

• Additional training may be required even after completing training elsewhere due to differences in healthcare systems between countries.

Resources for Further Information

• Contacting royal colleges related to specific specialties can provide guidance on necessary evidence and potential additional training requirements needed for practicing medicine in the UK.

Understanding English Proficiency Exams

• A question arises regarding the Professional Linguistics Assessment Board (PLAB), where it's noted that details should be sought directly from relevant websites since personal experience was not applicable here.

• The speaker suggests reviewing PLAB resources online to understand assessment criteria focused on English skills and familiarity with NHS operations.

Choosing a Specialism in Surgery

Inspiration and Initial Interest

• The speaker shares their initial inspiration for pursuing surgery, citing a love for watching Grey's Anatomy during university as a motivating factor.

• A significant influence on the decision to specialize in surgery was positive experiences during surgical rotations as a medical student and junior doctor.

Pathway to Specialization

• In the UK, specialization occurs after completing two years of foundation training (FY1 and FY2), which is akin to housemanship in Malaysia.

• Surgical training can take at least 10 years post-medical school, potentially extending up to 20 years depending on additional qualifications like PhDs or fellowships.

Challenges of Training

• The speaker discusses the challenges of balancing clinical work with ongoing education while pursuing a PhD, emphasizing motivation and support systems.

• They highlight that anyone can succeed with determination and support from family and friends, despite the demanding nature of medical training.

Navigating Difficult Aspects of Medical Training

Coping with Unpleasant Experiences

• A question arises about aspects of medical training that were less enjoyable; the speaker identifies long working hours as particularly challenging.

• New doctors often face exhausting shifts, sometimes working multiple consecutive 13-hour days without breaks.

Support Systems Available

• The NHS provides well-being officers and advisors for support; however, managing exhaustion remains crucial for new doctors.

• The speaker emphasizes knowing one's end goal helps navigate through tough times, reinforcing resilience amidst challenges.

Balancing Life During Medical Training

Time Management Challenges

• Balancing social life, family commitments, academic responsibilities, and work is highlighted as an ongoing challenge throughout medical training.

• Sacrifices are necessary at times to prioritize career progression; making these decisions can be difficult but essential for success.

Realistic Expectations

• The importance of understanding the difficulties inherent in pursuing a medical career is stressed; success requires hard work and dedication.

The Role of Support Networks

Importance of Emotional Support

• The speaker credits their family and friends as vital sources of support throughout their journey in medicine.

• They recount personal experiences where emotional conversations helped cope with stressful situations like bad shifts.

Understanding Burnout and Support Systems

The Impact of Burnout

• Burnout can lead to feelings of giving up, making it difficult for individuals to regain motivation.

• Having a supportive network is crucial for overcoming burnout and continuing one's pursuits.

International Students and Housemanship

• Acknowledgment of supportive parents in the audience, highlighting their role in students' journeys.

• Discussion on the feasibility of housemanship for international students; experiences may vary based on individual circumstances.

Changes in Training Opportunities

• Previously, UK and EU graduates were prioritized for housemanship; now, international graduates are considered equally if they meet merit-based criteria.

• Post-2019 changes have leveled the playing field for all graduates seeking housemanship or specialty training.

Application Process Insights

• The application process involves national ranking; candidates must apply and will be ranked based on various criteria.

• Key factors influencing rankings include publications, presentations, audits, teaching experience, and commitment to working in the UK.

Preparation Strategies

• Candidates should prepare a comprehensive portfolio detailing their educational journey and work experience to enhance their applications.

• Online resources are available to help international graduates understand requirements for entering housemanship or specialty training in the UK.

Final Advice for Aspiring Students

Encouragement and Mindset

• Emphasis on hard work, stepping out of comfort zones, setting personal goals, and staying true to oneself as essential elements for success.

Challenging Norms

• Students are encouraged to voice their opinions when they perceive issues within systems or processes.

Perseverance Towards Goals

• Success is achievable through passion, perseverance, and motivation; maintaining focus on end goals is vital.

Conclusion of Session

Gratitude and Future Engagement

• Appreciation expressed towards Dr. Amelina for her inspiring contributions during the session.

Upcoming Events Announcement

• Information shared about ongoing sessions related to education topics such as public relations journalism and environmental issues.