Four reasons to join student organisations at medical school

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{99}" paraid="2001085936">When working as a medical professional, people skills are hugely important. From helping patients to working with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, there are always people to interact with and working as a team means finding the best solution for your patients.  </p>

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{111}" paraid="1771980721">Joining student organisations gave me a great opportunity to engage with people I wouldn’t normally speak to. I learned how to work in a team and even how to lead others when organising and participating in activities. </p>

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{127}" paraid="934691697">In Biologist Club, I participated in scientific research where we had to delegate tasks; someone researched facts, some engaged in statistical calculations, others wrote reports. Over time, I began to show leadership qualities, to offer new ideas and motivate others. </p>

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{173}" paraid="304064944">Having joined the volunteer club at my university, I’ve had a wonderful opportunity to help people. In particular, I provided both ordinary and medical assistance to people who could not visit hospitals including people with a disability, and low-income families with many children, where parents could not afford going to the doctor.  </p>

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{209}" paraid="1363012557">I was able to use my medical skills to provide care from home, giving injections and advice on how to get better. Volunteering has given me additional experience as a medical professional and has allowed me to work with people I might not usually come across on a work placement. </p>

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{227}" paraid="565057684">Joining student organisations is a great way to meet new people. I met new students and teachers at my university through student organisations. It helps me to learn different perspectives and gain knowledge in areas where I feel I’m weaker than others.   </p>

<p paraeid="{a6e7affe-efe1-4f27-b8f1-414dbaa3420f}{247}" paraid="299688004">In many countries, including Kazakhstan, medicine is becoming commercialised, so having strong connections is crucial to finding a good job after your studies. Getting to know medical professionals from other areas of healthcare will help to build a good network of people who can recommend you in the future.  </p>

<p paraeid="{a339ab32-dc21-4f7a-b1a5-147284963fd3}{18}" paraid="731691505">Being a part of medical-focused student organisations has given me my first taste of consulting with others on clinical problems. As a medical graduate, I’ll be able to make use of other people’s knowledge and perspectives to make important decisions.  </p>

<p paraeid="{a339ab32-dc21-4f7a-b1a5-147284963fd3}{26}" paraid="558333732">Joining student organisations has been a big part of my time as a student doctor and have given me skills and knowledge beyond the classroom. Find out what organisations are available at your university or set up your own.  </p>