Madam, - I read with interest your lucid Editorial on proposed changes in the application procedure for medicine (August 16th). Among the changes recommended are an increase in graduate numbers, a drop in the points requirement and an independently run aptitude test.
I found this ironic because this year I applied to study medicine as a mature student. I didn't miss the points requirement by much, I have a very good degree, I am in my mid-20s, with an interesting career profile, so I was disappointed not even to be selected for interview. That left me with the choice of either repeating my Leaving Cert or studying abroad.
One month of intensive study, one entrance exam and one interview later, I'm off to Hungary to study on one of that country's English language courses in medicine. The courses are internationally recognised and the fees are about €2,000 more than I would pay as a graduate here.
The Hungarian colleges' representative in Ireland, whom I found both professional and helpful, informed me recently that there are still places available for next year, should anyone out there be interested.
It's heart-rending to have to leave my family and friends behind, and it wasn't an easy decision to make. It's also going to leave me in a fair amount of debt. I hope the proposed changes will mean fewer people will need to follow my footsteps in future. - Yours, etc.,
DAVID BYRNE,
Newtownpark Avenue,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.