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University college London

CANDIDATE:   RA, UAE, Dubai

CURRICULUM: IBDP

SCHOOL: Dubai International Academy

SUBJECTS: Biology HL, Chemistry HL, Physics HL, English HL, Math AA SL, Spanish SL

AP SUBJECTS: Not Applicable

GRADES: 44/45

UCAT SCORE: 3100/3600

INTERESTED MAJOR: Undergraduate Medicine (MBBS)

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Approach

By grade 11, RA had set his sights on medicine and approached us for support. With strong predicted IB grades and rigorous HL subjects, he demonstrated both academic rigour and communication skills. We helped him build a well-rounded profile with clinical placements, research, competitions, and deeper engagement with the UK healthcare system. To highlight qualities valued in medicine, we focused on developing empathy and ethical reasoning for the MMI. Our preparation included targeted simulations, college-specific mock interviews, and feedback from specialists, along with refining his Personal Statement and curating a balanced university list. Supported by his strong UCAT score, RA secured offers from three highly competitive UK medical schools.

JOURNEY

GRADE 11

  • Hospital placement at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, shadowing a gastrointestinal surgeon.
  • Clinical experience at King’s College Hospital, Dubai, observing paediatrics, neurosurgery, and A&E rotations.
  • Represented the UAE at the International Biology Olympiad after a top-four national placement.
  • Mentored younger students in chemistry.
  • Regularly read medical journals and books, including When Cancer Becomes Us and Bad Science. 
  • Completed an online physiology course.
  • Initiated a blood donation drive at school. 


GRADE 12

  • Observed surgeries and patient care at Speciality Surgical Oncology Hospital, Mumbai.
  • Engaged in discussions on ctDNA research with practising oncologists.
  • Co-authored a case report on quadruple parathyroid adenoma with SSOH doctors.
  • Conducted research on paracetamol quality and solubility-related pharmaceutical testing.
  • Prepared for UCAT.
  • Undertook intensive MMI preparation with targeted simulations and college-specific mock interviews.

OUTCOME

Offers from

University college London
Kings College London
University of Bristol
new york university

CANDIDATE:  
AN

GRE/GMAT:
Did not take

GPA:
3.43/4.0 (as per her WES evaluation)

Qualification:
BA Economics

Work Experience:
Less than six months

Admitted to:
NYU

Background

AN aimed for an MS in Marketing in the US and the UK. The applicant was prompt in balancing the WES evaluation and other application components. However, while brainstorming the SOP we encountered a challenge. The applicant lacked sufficient work experience, which is gained through internships. They only had a two-month marketing internship in a finance company. However, as an undergraduate, the applicant was editor-in-chief of the college magazine, co-authored academic papers and hosted an Instagram series on mental health, diversity, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Approach

While storyboarding, we strategically guided the applicant to match their academic endeavours with their desire to become an inclusive impact marketer. As an editor, writer and social media content creator for diversity and inclusivity, AN developed excellent communication skills, an understanding of different people, and concise and compelling storytelling abilities. We advised the applicant to position themself as a collaborative marketing person who understood diverse needs, has problem-solving skills and was familiar with contemporary communication platforms.

Key Takeaway

AN exemplifies how storyboarding with expert counsellors can help applicants identify experiences that align with their goals. Our strategic advice proved valuable, and the applicant received offers from programmes of their choice. It reinforced the fact that transferable skills, like problem-solving, communication, collaboration and technical proficiency, are greatly valued and can compensate for work experience.