Health: studies like any other
From May 30 to June 1, students in Montpellier will take their medical school entrance exams. This marks the culmination of a first year that is known to be challenging. It is also an opportunity to examine some common misconceptions about studying health sciences.
The first year common to health studies? It does not have the reputation of being smooth sailing. “Some compare PACES to a frightening experience where failure lurks, and where you can't be sure of coming out with a diploma in your pocket., says Denis Mariano-Goulart. The truth is quite different. “Actual failure rate after two years of PACES? Around 6%., reveals this professor at Montpellier University Hospital, president of the jury and the PACES educational commission.
Common misconception #1 : a ruthless selection process. In this year, which is considered to be particularly difficult, no less than 43% of students (first-time and repeat students combined) managed to pass, including 13% in medicine. This figure is higher than most bachelor's degree pass rates (the national average is 39.8% – INSEE – 2016). 51% of health students voluntarily change direction during their studies; only 6% actually fail.
Misconception #2 : it is the only route into medical school. “False! 10% of third-year medical students did not take the competitive entrance exam.It is possible to be admitted based on your academic record if you have a master's degree or a doctorate. Conversely, PACES does not only lead to health studies. Are you interested in other fields? There are many pathways that allow you to continue your studies elsewhere without necessarily losing a year.
Misconception #3 : Prep school or failure... Enrolling in a private prep school gives you a significant boost. But there's an even more effective way to succeed: tutoring. "Enrolling in a private prep school increases your chances of success fivefold. Attending three-quarters of the tutoring classes increases them sixfold," explains Professor Mariano-Goulart. The figures are similar, it's true. But tutoring has one definite advantage: it's free and open to everyone...
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Tutoring: when success comes through friends
“Without tutoring, I would never have passed the exam! There is a huge amount of information to learn, and to succeed you need guidance,”explains Johanna Krief. The young woman used tutoring in her first year, before becoming a tutor herself. Tutoring?“Students who have gone through the same difficulties as you and are willing to help you.” It is a free service, funded by the university.
Among the decisive advantages of tutoring are exercises co-prepared and validated by the same teachers who will prepare your exam and will be present on the jury. Butthere isalso daily help: "There are tutors for each subject, providing assistance in the form of sessions between noon and 2 p.m. or in the evening. There is also a hotline available at certain times to answer questions directly, correct exercises, etc.,"explains Johanna.
Her advice for success: "Be motivated and don't give up." And don't forget this useful tip: "Don't miss the pre-term tutoring course, which runs for two weeks in mid-August, so you can get started right away when the term begins and make initial contact with the tutors."