What motivated you to set up the society? What wants or needs were you hoping to meet based on your target audience?
As mature students, we noticed a gap at our university - there was no dedicated place tailored to our needs. Knowing we come from diverse walks of life we wanted to create a welcoming and inclusive space that caters specifically to the unique needs and backgrounds of mature students, whether they are parents, employed, or returning to education after some time away. Our goal was simple: build a community within the School of Medicine where mature students from all years could connect, share experiences, and feel a sense of belonging.
What is the society’s main objective, and what kind of activities support that?
Our primary aim is to ensure that every mature medical student feels supported and well-connected. We facilitate this through a series of regular social gatherings, teaching sessions for first-year students and bi-weekly coffee meetups.
What are you most proud of since the society got going?
Despite being a brand-new society, we've already accomplished so much in our first year. We're especially proud of:
• Hosting the Year 1 Welcome Event in collaboration with the School of Medicine, ensuring a warm welcome for incoming mature and commuting medical students.
• Establishing dedicated teaching sessions for Year 1 students in preparation for their End of Block assessments.
• Our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) seminar, encouraging an understanding of diversity and inclusivity through discussions and guest speaker insights.
What are you most looking forward to for the rest of the academic year?
We’re especially excited for our upcoming post-exam social – a picnic at Sefton park. It’ll be a chance for our members to unwind and celebrate after what can be an intense exam period. Come and join us!
What is your biggest ambition for the future of the society?
Our long-term goal is to expand our reach to include mature students from all years, as well as Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) students. By widening our community, we hope to create an even more diverse and supportive environment for students juggling different responsibilities and backgrounds.
What’s the most important piece of advice you would give to mature students / students of other degrees looking to join the MBChB course?
Embrace the community around you because their support is invaluable and never hesitate to ask for help.