I think I’ll agree with the majority of people that it was quite a fair paper – nothing (much) was thrown in that was tricky. Personally though I don’t think it was brilliant, there were quite a few topics that I ended up writing utter waffle about. Have I done myself justice? Probably not, I certainly didn’t feel it was the best exam I’ve sat as I looked back at the end.

After strolling around rather unimpressed with myself for a bit I found out I’ve been invited to join the admissons committee. This should be quite interesting. I offered to do it back in year 1 when it was a first come basis but I wasn’t fast enough. I’ll be keen to see what input I can have (if any).

Interestingly, speaking of things coming back around, the SRC IT co-ordinator job has been advertised again. This was something that caught my eye back in April 07(!). I went and applied for it and the process stretched until November before I was finally unsuccessful after interview. The fact it’s being advertised again suggests the person they found has also now left. Could I see this advertised again before I graduate? I haven’t applied this time, my name should be on file if they are really struggling!

Back to tomorrow I’m hoping to come out feeling happy with my attempt. Then I need to focus on the OSCE…whatever that is again.

The application process is quite a roller coaster for those on it. A very drawn out process that spans across 6 months of the year. Just last week it seems the bulk of this years Glasgow applicants has been given offers. Congrats to them!

However this year was rather different from last. A good deal of offers had already been given out – to those who hadn’t been interviewed.

This might not seem like a big change but personally I see it as quite significant.

As a bit of background, interview has long been the pass or fail criteria for Glasgow applicants. The introduction of the UKCAT seems to have changed this a bit. There is a progressive reliance on the UKCAT to rank candidates. I, thank goodness, didn’t have to take the UKCAT but those who have generally don’t appreciate the experience.

Whether or not the UKCAT is a good tool for applicants is beyond me. However I do believe that simply the best way to get the feel for an applicant is to speak to them. Isn’t this what they try and teach us all about in communication skills? It seems confusing that they are now dropping this as a prerequisite for an offer.

Beyond that I remember quite a bit of mockery from the Glasgow faculty regarding Edinburgh’s refusal to interview any school leavers (grads were a bit different). A bit of hypocrisy now, no?

I’ve yet to ask about the reasoning behind this. Maybe a good reason exists. The rumour that the current chair of admissions is retiring seems a little more solid. Is the chair-to-be not so keen on interviews?

I don’t know what kind of impact this will have on the ability of students. I mean this in no offence to those coming to us in September but I do look forward to seeing whether there are a bit different in a subtle sort of way. Will anyone be interviewed next yet? I hope so but it’s any one’s guess what will change next.