UEA MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEW STORY | "I Stayed in the Worst Reviewed Hostel!"

Summary

In this gripping account, the speaker shares their nerve-wracking experience of attending a medical school interview after a chaotic night at a low-rated hostel. Despite encountering unusual roommates, including a chanting priest, they remained adaptable and focused. The story emphasizes the importance of preparation, overcoming prejudice, and maintaining a positive mindset in challenging situations. Ultimately, the interview goes well, and the speaker reflects on the value of resilience and adaptability, concluding with a powerful message about how our reactions shape our character.

Takeaways

• 🏨 Staying in a low-rated hostel can lead to unexpected challenges and stress.
• 💰 Self-funding your journey to a medical school interview demonstrates independence and determination.
• 😟 It's important to prepare in advance for accommodations and consider safety when traveling alone.
• 🙏 Finding comfort in unexpected places can help alleviate anxiety and build confidence.
• 🤝 People often have hidden stories; assumptions based on appearances can lead to misconceptions.
• 🛌 Sleep deprivation can affect performance; prioritizing rest is essential before significant events.
• 🎓 Successfully completing an interview can be a transformative moment, leading to new opportunities.
• ⏰ Time management is crucial; balancing travel, preparation, and commitments requires planning.
• 🔄 Adaptability is key to overcoming obstacles and responding positively to challenges.
• 💪 Your reactions to external events shape your character; maintaining a positive attitude is vital for personal growth.

Q & A

What motivated the speaker to attend their medical school interview despite having a lecture on the same day?

The speaker aimed for 100% attendance in their final year and did not want to miss the opportunity to attend the interview.

How did the speaker manage their accommodation for the interview?

The speaker booked a budget hostel for £15 a night to save money, as they wanted to finance the trip independently without asking their parents for help.

What were the speaker's initial feelings upon arriving at the hostel?

Upon arrival, the speaker felt anxious and scared due to the hostel's low reviews and the presence of other guests who seemed intimidating.

Who provided comfort to the speaker during their stay at the hostel?

An Asian man with a prayer mat reassured the speaker by sharing his experiences of staying in similar accommodations and emphasizing that it was generally safe.

What unusual experience did the speaker encounter during the night at the hostel?

The speaker was disturbed by a Congolese priest who was chanting loudly in an unfamiliar language, causing them to feel frightened and anxious.

How did the speaker prepare for their interview the following day?

Despite the lack of sleep, the speaker took a cold shower, bought coffee for a caffeine boost, and dressed in a suit to feel more focused and confident.

What was the outcome of the speaker's medical school interview?

The speaker felt the interview went very well and was confident they would secure a place in medical school.

How did the speaker manage to maintain their perfect attendance record despite being late to their lecture after the interview?

The speaker hurried back to Leicester after the interview, arriving just in time to scan their card and secure attendance, even though they were 25 minutes late.

What lessons did the speaker learn from this experience?

The speaker learned the importance of better preparation when choosing accommodation and recognized their own prejudices about people based on appearances.

What broader message does the speaker convey regarding adaptability and reaction to challenges?

The speaker emphasizes that adaptability is crucial when facing unexpected challenges and that one’s reaction to external events defines their character.