If you’re preparing to apply to medical school for 2026 entry, you’ll notice some changes to the UCAS personal statement format. This updated structure organises the statement into three specific sections:

1. Motivation
2. Preparation
3. Extra-curriculars

While the new format brings clarity, the essence of creating a strong statement remains the same. Reflection and effective storytelling, based on your experiences, are vital. Here’s how to approach this process with confidence—with some added insight from Medic Mentor.

Why Reflection Is the Foundation of a Strong Personal Statement

Reflection is key to writing an impactful personal statement, no matter the format. It allows you to think deeply about your experiences, understand their significance, and how they’ve shaped your aspirations. Whether it’s a shadowing placement, a book that inspired you, or a volunteering role, each experience has a story to tell. What did you learn? How did it confirm your desire to pursue medicine? These reflective insights give your statement depth and authenticity, making it stand out.  

How Extracurricular and Supercurricular Activities Enhance Your Statement

Extracurricular and supercurricular activities are essential in demonstrating your dedication and readiness for a career in healthcare. They weave valuable skills and qualities into your narrative and align naturally with the new structured questions.  

– Extracurriculars (e.g., sports, arts, leadership roles) show your ability to collaborate, lead, and commit.  

– Supercurriculars (e.g., healthcare-related volunteering or research) highlight your initiative and genuine interest in engaging with the field beyond standard academics.  

The key is understanding how these experiences contribute to your suitability as an applicant. For instance, what does managing a busy sports schedule say about your time-management skills? How did assisting at a care home teach you about empathy and the human side of healthcare? Unlocking the meaning behind these activities might just be the differentiator for your application.  

Where Medic Mentor’s Summer School Comes In

Understanding your unique experiences, and knowing how to communicate them effectively, is not always straightforward. That’s where Medic Mentor’s 5-day residential (or virtual) Summer School comes in.  

The Summer School is designed not only to guide you through the writing process but also to help you reflect on your experiences, identify which ones are most compelling, and connect them to the new UCAS structure. Here’s how it makes a difference:

1. Building Your Reflection Skills  

The mentors, who are experienced medical professionals, help you dig deeper into each experience. They’ll guide you to see the value in moments you might have overlooked and how to link them back to the qualities admissions tutors look for.  

2. Structuring Your Statement  

The new structure may seem challenging at first, but with expert support, you’ll gain clarity on how to strategically incorporate your experiences into the Motivation, Preparation, and Extra-curricular sections.  

3. A Proven Track Record  

An incredible 83% of Platinum Pathway students who attended received at least one offer to study medicine. These outcomes reveal the effectiveness of the mentorship and tailored guidance provided during the programme.  

4. Efficiency Paired with Quality  

You’ll complete your personal statement in just three days during the Summer School, and it will be reviewed and signed off by medical  professionals. This doesn’t just save time; it ensures that your statement is polished and ready to go.  

5. A Strong Network and Support  

Beyond writing, the Summer School gives you access to a community of like-minded students and mentors, providing invaluable support during this important stage in your application process.  Don’t just take our word for it. Isabelle Ince, a 3rd-year medical student at Liverpool University, shared her experience with Medic Mentor’s programmes:

“The Platinum Pathway is honestly so useful! I got my personal statement written in three days and there is support always available. You can have 1-to-1s with mentors and it’s really nice to have the opportunity to network with other students going through the same process as you. It helps you actually enjoy the application process, while also builds a stronger application.”

Her success highlights the value of having expert support during this crucial phase of your application. Watch her clip about her medical application above!

Save £250 with Code ‘SPRINGTIME25’

Medic Mentor is also offering a special discount to make the programme more accessible. Use the code ‘SPRINGTIME25′ to save £250 on the full-payment option and secure your place. Enrol here today!

Final Thoughts

Writing your personal statement is more than putting words on a page; it’s about telling your story in a way that conveys your passion and readiness for a career in healthcare. While the new UCAS structure may feel different, the principles of good storytelling and meaningful reflection remain the same.  

With Medic Mentor’s Summer School, you’ll have the tools, guidance, and support to craft a standout statement that reflects your true potential. Your story deserves to be told, and with the right help, it can be extraordinary.