Introduction

What’s the first step toward the medical industry? Attending admission talks at all universities? Reading every book and reference about medicine? There’s no definitive answer. My initial step into the medical industry was enrolling in the Summer Immersion Program (SIP) held by the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong. This five-day program included morning mini-lectures and afternoon interactive workshops, such as taking blood samples and VR anatomy classes. It was an unforgettable and enriching program, which I recommend to students interested in medicine. This blog entry isn’t intended to promote the program, but to share my experiences.

Mini Lectures

Mini lectures offered exposure to a wide range of medical aspects, from pharmacology to medical ethics and traumatology. These lectures provided valuable knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of different career paths. If you’re considering the medical field, the program could pique your interest and educate you about diverse medical specialties. This exposure can assist in making informed decisions about your future career and provide a solid foundation for further studies in medicine. Furthermore, professors discussed factors to consider when choosing medicine, including challenges like dealing with blood and deceased bodies, which might help you reconsider your future career choice.

Hands-on experience

Another significant benefit of participating in the SIP was the unique chance to gain hands-on experience. The afternoon sessions usually consisted of interactive workshops, such as hospital visits, mock problem-based learning (PBL), and clinical and surgical skills workshops. For instance, we had the opportunity to attempt taking blood samples from a mannequin. These workshops offered not only practical skills but also insights into the daily responsibilities of aspiring medical professionals and healthcare providers.

Exclusive Session in HKU

The most memorable activity during the SIP was the mock PBL, a distinctive task not found in other universities (including CUHK). In a PBL, a case is given to the medical students, who then follow the clues to diagnose the disease. Through the mock PBL, I learned more about the Triage System in the A&E department, the interpretation of chest X-ray results, and the management of patients with “bad news”. Developing empathy and compassion toward patients is vital for future doctors. The mock PBL allowed us to experience these challenges and complexities, fostering essential skills such as communication, decision-making, and teamwork. Consequently, the PBL instilled a deep appreciation for the intricacies of medical practice.

Friendships and Mentorships

The SIP participants hailed from various schools across Hong Kong, including DGS, La Salle, St. Joseph, and many others. (I believe I was the only one from Tin Shui Wai.) Prior to the program, I was burdened by apprehensions, fearing that the intelligence of the other participants would hinder my ability to communicate effectively. These concerns led me to keep quiet during the registration process. However, my initial fears were unfounded. The participants turned out to be kind and friendly, and I was able to build friendships and exchange contacts on the first day itself.

Throughout the SIP, we worked in groups, sharing our thoughts and passion for medicine. The collective enthusiasm and intellectual exchange within the group fostered an atmosphere conducive to personal growth. Furthermore, we had mentors, Joba and Joma, in each group. They guided us through the PBL and generously shared their knowledge and experiences. Their unwavering support and encouragement bolstered our confidence and reaffirmed our potential to make a significant impact in the field of medicine.

P.S. Interestingly, our group consisted entirely of introverts, and we only managed to break the ice on the final day. Joba and Joma wrote each of us an encouraging letter, and we reciprocated with heartfelt notes of appreciation for their guidance over the five days. It was a heartwarming experience to see everyone expressing their thoughts to each other, and the mentors were equally grateful to see the introverted members opening up.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the SIP was an extraordinary opportunity that provided me with a unique foundation for my future career path. The informative lectures, hands-on experiences, collaborative learning environment, friendships, and mentorships all contributed to a transformative experience. Even though I missed some extra lessons at school, I still encourage F5 students to enroll in the program during the summer. It was a worthy program. Lastly, thank you for reading this blog, and here’s a friendly reminder: Don’t be shy; be brave and make some friends!