Transitioning to University Life at UCL SOP : Thoughts of Local and International Students11/29/2023 Starting anything new can be very daunting- especially when you are very passionate about it. When I first came to UCL’s School of Pharmacy, I had many mixed feelings- fear, excitement, anxiety. However, these past few weeks have allowed me to settle in well, and I am keen to continue my journey as a pharmacy student. As a Londoner, I had one big advantage- I was familiar with many aspects of the UK, such as the area, the culture and the people. This was very useful when applying my knowledge to pharmacy in the UK.
Living here my whole life meant I had a good grasp of what the rules and regulations were like here. For example, I could tell which medicines were GSL products and which were PoM based on what was available over the counter at Boots. I have also been aware of pack restrictions on paracetamol, so learning about it in my course allowed me to link my experience to my knowledge of medicines. I am also very fluent in what prescriptions are like here, as I always used to glance over them whenever my parents brought them home from the GP. I have seen how the dispensing system works, and what it is like to be a patient picking up a prescription. I now get to see what pharmacists do behind the counter in the UK, and so I get to grasp a fuller picture. The NHS is one of the unique characteristics of the UK. I have been exposed to how overcrowded GPs and hospitals can be, due to the free healthcare provided, and in a way, it has allowed me to understand how much healthcare professionals are needed by the community. Having family friends here who work for the NHS has also proved this to me, as the stories and experiences they share are incredibly inspiring. I am fortunate to benefit from free healthcare, and I hope many more people will be too. Brexit was, to say the least, a huge change for the UK. I witnessed how all areas of the healthcare system were affected, and I was very interested to learn more about how pharmacies specifically had to adapt to the UK leaving the EU. I believe that if I didn't live here, I wouldn't know as much about these changes and so I am grateful that I have a good insight into it. Overall, I have a vivid understanding of pharmacy in the UK, yet there is a lot to learn. Although commuting can be tiring, and I am less aware of what pharmacy looks like globally, I am looking forward to implementing my vast knowledge of being a UK citizen into my degree, and eventually being able to help my community out as a pharmacist. Written by Zainab Siddique, Local First Year Student at UCL School of Pharmacy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Studying abroad can be extremely daunting for an international student. I felt like I was forced to grow up overnight, when I had everything I owned packed into 4 large suitcases and hop onto a plane - all while knowing my heart was beating 10,000km away from my body. However, I still appreciate this opportunity of a lifetime, as these hurdles, though significant, have been integral to my growth and understanding of this new landscape. Cultural adjustment hit hard upon arrival. The expectation to get used to a new culture, new environment, and new people brought about a wave of culture shock, leading to bouts of homesickness. Having to adapt to unfamiliar customs and social norms can undoubtedly be a steep learning curve to most international students. Besides, language barriers are evident to be a formidable obstacle for plenty of international students. While I was fortunate enough to not have encountered this hurdle personally, I know of many others who struggled with understanding intricate academic and medical terminologies - just because their first language wasn’t English. The struggle to communicate and comprehend effectively proved to be a constant obstacle for this particular group of students, undoubtedly requiring them to put in additional effort to bridge the linguistic gap in order to survive. Visa and immigration - definitely not the most thrilling subjects, but undeniably crucial. Most international students had to learn how to manage these arduous tasks without any guidance. Like stepping on a tightrope, I personally felt overwhelmed when it came to this part of moving abroad, as I knew that this was of paramount importance when it came to securing part-time work opportunities that were essential for financial stability. Speaking of finances - the topic weighs even more heavily on international students, as we have to think about tuition fees and the soaring cost of living - all while worrying about the unpredictable currency exchange rates. Though a life skill that is essential for all to learn, international students had to prioritise thorough budgeting. Some might even opt to seek scholarships, which is another burden to add onto a pair of heavy shoulders. Lastly, to top everything off, the ever-unpredictable London weather! Prior to moving here, I never knew that the change from a radiant sunny afternoon to a gloomy, rainy day can happen within minutes. Therefore, adapting to this unpredictable climate was a daily adventure in itself. International students who come from tropical countries (like myself) would also find difficulty in getting accustomed to the cold weather especially during the winter season. However, each of the above challenges has served as a defining chapter in my journey as a student at the UCL School of Pharmacy. I have learned to be a resilient individual that is able to change the sails on my ship according to the winds, achieving invaluable lessons in perseverance amidst adversity. Written by Olivia Ho, Third Year Student at UCL School of Pharmacy from Malaysia ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As a Korean international pharmacy student at UCL Pharmacy School, my academic journey has been faced with both personal challenges and a basic understanding of South Korea's healthcare system. One of the challenges has been struggling with pharmacy concepts in a foreign language, English. This hurdle has required a dedicated effort to bridge the language gap and adapt to a new academic environment. However, through perseverance and active engagement, I think I can enhance my language proficiency and academic skills simultaneously. Turning the focus to South Korea's healthcare system, it is designed to give all residents accessible and essential healthcare. The National Health Insurance (NHI) program is crucial, covering both Korean citizens and foreign residents. It's mandatory for everyone, with coverage based on income and employment, ensuring fair access to healthcare resources. What’s interesting is that private insurance is prevalent in South Korea, offering additional benefits such as dental coverage, operations coverage, and more, to complement the NHI program. In Korea, the healthcare system is organised into primary, secondary, and tertiary care; with local clinics providing primary care, general hospitals offering secondary care, and specialised medical centres delivering tertiary care respectively. Also, preventive healthcare is vital through regular health check-ups and screening programs for employees. With various care systems, there are various healthcare professionals in Korea including traditional Korean medicine practitioners, contributing to a robust healthcare ecosystem. This diverse array of professionals ensures that individuals receive holistic care, addressing both conventional and traditional aspects of health. One of the healthcare sectors, pharmacy in Korea, operating hours reflect the commitment to accessible healthcare; with 24-hour pharmacies in large cities and standard hours from 9 am to 6-7 pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Furthermore, some Korean pharmacies integrate traditional Korean medicine with Western medicine, making herbal remedies and oriental medicine products readily available to the public. Looking back on my time as an international pharmacy student and exploring South Korean healthcare has been valuable. Overcoming language barriers and adapting to a new academic setting has been transformative. This experience has widened my view on global healthcare and sparked an interest in understanding healthcare in different countries. It also prompts me to consider cultural awareness and sensitivity. These insights will play a significant role in my future as a pharmacist, as I aim to promote a comprehensive and inclusive approach to patient care. Written by Dasom Lee, First Year Student at UCL School of Pharmacy from South Korea ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Being able to study abroad in such a great pharmacy school has always been my pleasure. Since I received the offer, I have been looking forward to new cultures, food, and friends I may be in touch with. It allows me to broaden my horizons. However, what I did not expect was the mixed feelings I had to encounter. As soon as I stepped into the Hong Kong International Airport, my feelings altered quickly. I pretended to be so relaxed, but I was worried about my new life, and the cultural difference I may face. Without direct support from friends and family, I was forced to grow up, live independently, and self-encourage when facing obstacles. Being homesick is inevitable for an international student, and I am so glad I have built cohesive friendships in my hometown, and they are always there to support me. Despite the challenges, I still feel very grateful to study here, and allow me to jump out of my comfort zone. Speaking of the course I am taking --- Pharmacy, the role of pharmacists is quite different in these two places because of the difference between their healthcare systems. In Hong Kong, the healthcare system mainly consists of hospitals and clinics. Public hospitals are funded by the government and administered by the Hospital Authority, a department like the NHS, while private hospitals are self-funded. There are also private clinics around the city that allow citizens to seek treatment for some basic illnesses. Doctors are responsible for prescribing and dispensing medicines as Hong Kong does not adopt the system of separation of prescribing and dispensing. Citizens mostly visit the A&E or private clinics when they are not feeling well and seldom, if not never look for a community pharmacy. The pharmacists in Hong Kong can be divided into hospital and community pharmacists. They have no power to prescribe medicines. Community pharmacists usually provide basic healthcare consultation and dispense the prescribed medicines. While for hospital pharmacists, apart from conducting the job community pharmacists do in the pharmacy, they may also join the medical team in providing professional comments on the dose and choice of medicines for patients. I am glad to share with you all my experiences and feelings so far to study here as an international student and to explain more about the healthcare system in Hong Kong. Written by Tim Chan, First Year Student at UCL School of Pharmacy from Hong Kong -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Embarking on the journey of moving from Greece to the UK and specifically to London to study pharmacy at UCL , I found myself having a mixed of emotions and facing a lot of challenges . It was a plunge into the unknown, a journey through diverse landscapes, both personal and professional. The awareness of the difficulties that might lay ahead acted as a guide for mental preparation. The vibrancy of London epitomised by the intricate tube map and sprawling distances, initially struck fear into my heart. Yet, each challenge became an opportunity for growth . Acceptance into UCL was a dream come true. I was happy about the outcome but nervous about the competitiveness of the course. One of the highlights of this journey has been the excitement of meeting new people from all corners of the globe. London is a melting pot, and UCL mirrors that diversity. The prospect of learning and growing alongside individuals from diverse backgrounds has been a driving force that keeps me enthusiastic about each day. Since it was my first time living abroad, away from family , the responsibilities piled up, from signing up for a GP to opening a bank account, getting a new UK phone number, and finding affordable accommodation in central London. The pressure was on, and the learning curve was steep. It felt like adulting on fast-forward. Regarding healthcare in Greece , we have the National Healthcare Service (ESY), a lifeline for most of us. It's funded by contributions from employees, employers, and government subsidies. Waiting times for non-emergencies in the public sector can be a bit much. From a pharmaceutical aspect , in my studies and through my placements I realised that in the UK , pharmacies offer services like flu vaccinations and medication reviews , something I didn't see much of back home.In Greece however , pharmacies could be like social hubs, especially in quieter areas. Casual conversations especially from the elderly to the pharmacists as well as advice flow freely, creating a unique sense of community. Some medications might need a prescription, but Greek pharmacists might be able to dispense just certain drugs that are not over the counter without one . As I sit here reflecting on my journey so far , I can't help but smile . It has been a series of challenges , but each one has been a stepping stone to personal growth . From navigating the chaos of London to immersing myself to the fascinating world of pharmacy . It's an adventure I wouldn't trade for anything . Here is to embracing the unknown , stepping out of comfort zones and finding beauty in the journey. Written by Cecilia Perdikidi, Second Year Student at UCL School of Pharmacy from Greece -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Being an MPharm student at UCL School of Pharmacy is an exciting journey filled with academic exploration, cultural adjustments, and the pursuit of becoming a registered pharmacist in the highest quality institution. Throughout this, I encountered unique challenges which I struggled with at the beginning of the year but discovered a newfound appreciation for life in both the UK and my home country, South Korea. The UK's education system, especially at universities like UCL, emphasizes independent study and research, offering academic freedom. As an international student, this means taking on the responsibility of navigating coursework independently, which can be time-consuming and costly, considering expenses like flights and housing. Nonetheless, the exposure to UCL's diverse and dynamic learning environment is an invaluable experience that goes beyond academics. In London, the consistently mild weather and language barriers sometimes create social challenges, leading to moments of homesickness and even depression. I actually struggled during my last year in the School of Pharmacy, especially when I felt overwhelmed with a significant amount of work to do. In contrast, South Korea's four distinct seasons and warm culture provide a comforting backdrop, making it easier for those who find solace in the familiarity of changing climates. South Korea has become a global healthcare success story, with the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) offering comprehensive coverage and ensuring accessibility for all. The network of hospitals, along with affordable medical services, eliminates the majority of concerns about health insurance or the cost of medical care. Visiting a doctor(GP) or getting a prescription in South Korea is straightforward and efficient, fostering a sense of comfort and relaxation when dealing with health issues. While the UK's NHS is renowned for providing medical services regardless of financial status, it's crucial to recognize that South Korea's healthcare system brings advantages regards efficacy and accessibility. The systematic nature of South Korea's healthcare services may pose challenges, but the overall experience is marked by a sense of ease and reassurance. South Korea's healthcare success serves as a reminder of the diverse strengths different parts of the world contribute to ensuring the well-being of their populations. However, being an MPharm student at UCL School of Pharmacy involves a multifaceted journey of academic growth, cultural adaptation, and the pursuit of excellence. Despite the challenges, the experience is enriched by the global perspective gained from studying in central London. Written by Seungeun Cho, Second Year Student at UCL School of Pharmacy from South Korea References: Arrival Guides (2021) ‘Pharmacy - Seoul’ in Arrival Guides [Online] Available at: https://www.arrivalguides.com/en/Travelguide/SEOUL/essentialinformation/pharmacy-24982 (Accessed on 27 November 2023) National Health Insurance Service (2020) ‘Health Security System’ in National Health Insurance [Online]. Available at: https://www.nhis.or.kr/english/wbheaa02300m01.do (Accessed on 27 November 2023) Real Reporting Foundation (2021) ‘SOUTH KOREA: HEALTHCARE WORKERS’ in World Health Systems Facts [Online]. Available at: https://healthsystemsfacts.org/national-health-systems/national-health-insurance/south-korea/south-korea-health-system-personnel/ (Accessed on 27 November 2023)
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