Are you considering a career in medicine or curious about what it really takes to become a doctor in Singapore? In the premiere episode of the Uncle Talk podcast, Dr Leong Choon Kit-family physician, medical educator, and advocate for compassionate care-joins two fellow doctors, Dr Kenneth Tan and Dr John Hsiang to share honest, practical insights about how to get into medical school in Singapore and how to thrive in the medical profession.
Drawing on decades of experience in clinical practice, teaching, and mentoring young doctors, Dr Leong and his co-hosts discuss the many pathways to medical school, what admissions panels are truly looking for, and the personal qualities that set great doctors apart. They debunk common myths, reflect on the challenges and rewards of medical training, and offer candid advice for aspiring doctors and their families.
Tune in for an engaging and down-to-earth conversation that goes beyond the textbooks, right from the heart of Dr Leong Choon Kit’s clinic and his lifelong commitment to nurturing the next generation of doctors.
Meet the Hosts
The first episode of Uncle Talk introduces three experienced doctors, each bringing a unique perspective from their backgrounds in clinical practice and medical education:
Dr Kenneth Tan
Dr Kenneth is a private general practitioner (GP) running a clinic in Punggol. Beyond his work as a GP, he is actively involved in medical education as an assessor at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and serves as a tutor for undergraduate medical students. His dual role as a clinician and educator gives him firsthand insight into both patient care and the qualities that make a successful medical school applicant.
Dr John Hsiang
Dr John is a private practice gastroenterologist working at Farrer Park Hospital and Mount Elizabeth Hospital. Having grown up and trained in New Zealand, Dr John brings an international perspective to the discussion. He shares candid reflections on his own journey, including his early interest in architecture and the practical reasons that led him to choose medicine. His story highlights the diverse routes and motivations that can lead to a fulfilling career in healthcare.
Dr Leong Choon Kit
Dr Leong Choon Kit is a GP who has been practising since 1991 and is deeply involved in teaching across all three medical schools in Singapore. Over the years, he has mentored countless pre-med students, offering guidance on applications and interviews. Dr Leong’s experience spans not only clinical work but also the broader landscape of medical education, making him a valuable resource for aspiring doctors seeking honest advice about the profession.
Together, these three hosts offer a blend of local and international experience, practical wisdom, and a passion for nurturing the next generation of doctors. Their open, down-to-earth conversation sets the tone for the podcast, promising listeners a realistic and supportive look at the journey through medical school and beyond.
Why Choose Medicine?
Many aspiring doctors imagine a dramatic “calling” to medicine, but in this episode, the hosts share that their decisions were shaped by a mix of interests, practical considerations, and life circumstances.
Dr Kenneth was drawn to the combination of technical science and caring for people, Dr John considered other careers like architecture and dentistry before discovering a passion for biology in university, and Dr Leong Choon Kit initially aimed to become a Chinese teacher before seizing the opportunity to enter medical school; together, they emphasize that while some have clear reasons, many simply make the best choice available at the time, and what matters most is developing genuine conviction and passion for the profession.
Pathways to Get into Medical School in Singapore
The podcast highlights that there are now many different routes to enter medical school, both in Singapore and abroad.
Traditionally, most Singaporean students gained admission through the A-levels, but today, other qualifications like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Polytechnic diplomas are also accepted. For A-level applicants, top scores (often “90 pointers”) are typical, while IB students usually need around 45 points. Polytechnic graduates with strong GPAs (typically 4.0 and above) can also apply, and the specific diploma subject is often less important than overall academic excellence.
Duke-NUS Medical School
Another pathway is through postgraduate entry, such as Singapore’s Duke-NUS Medical School, which is modeled after the American system. This four-year program accepts applicants with a bachelor’s degree in any field, from music to theology, and values the maturity and diverse perspectives that older students bring. Similar postgraduate routes exist in Australia and New Zealand, where a significant proportion of medical students already hold other degrees.
Twinning Programs
The hosts also discuss alternative routes such as “twinning” programs (e.g., Malaysia’s International Medical University), where students complete pre-medical studies locally before transferring to a partner university overseas. Additionally, some Singaporean students enroll in foundation programs in Australia, which serve as a pre-university year to prepare for medical school entry.
Regardless of the route, the podcast emphasizes that the admissions process is highly competitive. Applicants typically undergo portfolio reviews, individual and group assessments, and interviews. Beyond academic results, successful candidates often demonstrate clarity of purpose, leadership, relevant healthcare exposure, and genuine motivation.
The hosts note that resilience, teamwork, independence, and authenticity are key qualities sought by assessors, and that there are always second chances and alternative pathways for those who don’t succeed on their first attempt.
What Makes a Successful Medical School Applicant?
The podcast hosts agree that while academic excellence is a baseline for medical school applicants, what truly sets successful candidates apart is a clear sense of purpose and genuine motivation for pursuing medicine. Top applicants have thoughtfully considered why they want to become doctors, often demonstrated through meaningful leadership roles, volunteering, and hands-on exposure to healthcare environments, such as clinic or hospital attachments. These experiences not only enrich their portfolios but also provide authentic insights they can draw upon during interviews.
Assessors look for candidates who are calm, confident, respectful, and able to reason through ethical and practical scenarios thoughtfully. The ability to reflect, communicate clearly, and show resilience in the face of challenges is highly valued. Teamwork and independence are also important-successful applicants can collaborate effectively with others while showing initiative and responsibility.
The hosts caution against relying on rote-learned or coached answers, emphasizing that authenticity and honesty are crucial. Interviewers can often tell when responses are rehearsed or insincere. Integrity, self-awareness, and a heartfelt conviction for the profession are key qualities that stand out. Ultimately, assessors seek applicants who are motivated by a true desire to serve others, not by external pressures or misconceptions about the profession.
The Medical School Interview: What to Expect
The podcast offers an insider’s perspective on what applicants can expect during the medical school interview process in Singapore. After an initial screening of academic portfolios, shortlisted candidates are invited for in-person assessments, which typically include a mix of solo tasks, group exercises, and formal interviews.
During these sessions, assessors look beyond grades to evaluate key personal qualities. They observe how applicants approach ethical dilemmas, communicate with others, and contribute in team settings. The interviewers value candidates who are calm, confident, respectful, and thoughtful in their responses, rather than those who simply give rehearsed or “coached” answers. Authenticity and honesty are highly prized, as assessors can usually spot when someone is reciting memorized responses.
Applicants may be asked to discuss their motivations for studying medicine, reflect on relevant experiences, or reason through real-world scenarios-such as handling patient confidentiality or ethical challenges like vaccine hesitancy. Group exercises are designed to reveal teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving abilities, while solo interviews often probe deeper into personal convictions and resilience.
The hosts emphasize that there is no single “right” personality for medicine; both outgoing and quieter candidates can do well if they contribute meaningfully and show genuine engagement. Ultimately, the interview process aims to identify applicants with a true passion for medicine, strong ethical foundations, and the interpersonal skills needed to thrive as future doctors.
Challenges and Realities of Medical Training
The hosts of Uncle Talk provide a candid look at the demanding journey through medical school and into clinical practice. They share that medical training is not just academically rigorous but also emotionally and mentally challenging.
As students, they struggled to balance intense study schedules with personal life-often sacrificing social activities and relaxation while peers in other fields enjoyed more free time. For those studying abroad, like Dr John in New Zealand, additional hurdles included managing daily living tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and self-care while keeping up with coursework.
The pressure doesn’t ease after graduation. The transition to junior doctor or specialist training brings its own set of challenges, including long hours, high expectations, and the need for continuous learning. The hosts emphasize that medicine is a lifelong commitment to education; guidelines and best practices change constantly, requiring doctors to stay updated and adaptable.
Mental health is a significant concern in the profession. The hosts acknowledge that medical school and the early years of practice can be extremely stressful, sometimes leading to burnout or even mental health crises among students and doctors. They advise that it’s important to recognize personal limits, take gap years if needed, and not rush through training. The ability to handle stress, seek support when necessary, and maintain self-awareness are crucial for long-term success and well-being in medicine.
Ultimately, the hosts stress that resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for the profession are essential for navigating the inevitable struggles of medical training. They encourage aspiring doctors to reflect deeply on their motivations, embrace lifelong learning, and approach the journey with both humility and determination.
Medical School Myths and Misconceptions
The hosts of Uncle Talk tackle several persistent myths and misconceptions about medical school and the medical profession, offering a reality check for aspiring doctors and their families.
One of the most common myths is that doctors always earn a lot of money. The hosts candidly share that while medicine can be financially stable, the reality is far from the stereotype of instant wealth; many doctors live modestly and face significant financial and time commitments throughout their careers.
Another misconception is that doctors know everything or should never make mistakes. The hosts emphasize that medicine is a constantly evolving field, and even experienced doctors must keep learning and adapting. They point out that expecting doctors to have all the answers at all times is unrealistic and can place unnecessary pressure on both practitioners and patients.
The idea of medicine as an “iron rice bowl”-a job that guarantees lifelong security-is also challenged. With rapid advancements in technology, including AI and changing healthcare landscapes, the profession is not immune to disruption. The hosts note that future doctors will need to be adaptable and open to new ways of practicing medicine.
They also address the belief that medical training is a one-time achievement. In reality, medicine requires lifelong learning; exams, new guidelines, and updated practices are a constant part of a doctor’s journey. The hosts stress that there is no point at which a doctor can “arrive” and stop learning.
Finally, the hosts warn against choosing medicine solely for status, parental pressure, or misconceptions about job stability and income. They encourage applicants to pursue medicine for genuine reasons, such as a passion for helping others and a commitment to lifelong growth.
Red Flags and Advice for Aspiring Doctors
The hosts of Uncle Talk highlight several important red flags that medical school applicants should be aware of, alongside practical advice for those considering a career in medicine.
Red Flags in Applications and Interviews:
Lack of Genuine Interest: If you feel unmotivated or unsure about attending interviews or pursuing medicine, that hesitation itself is a significant red flag. Applicants who are not fully committed often drop out of the process, and it’s better to recognize this early than to pursue a path you’re not passionate about.
Dishonesty or Exaggeration: Integrity is crucial in medicine. Falsifying achievements, exaggerating your role in activities, or lying about volunteer work are serious red flags. Assessors can usually detect dishonesty, and such actions can jeopardize your application and future career.
External Pressure: Applying to medical school because of parental or societal expectations, rather than personal conviction, can lead to disillusionment and burnout. The hosts have seen students who entered medicine to fulfill their parents’ dreams, only to regret it later.
Inconsistent Motivation: Applicants who claim to be passionate about a particular aspect of medicine but whose actions don’t align (for example, praising general practice but always seeking specialist care for family) may be viewed as lacking genuine commitment.
Inappropriate Attire or Presentation: Presenting yourself poorly at interviews-such as wearing inappropriate clothing-can reflect a lack of professionalism and awareness of context, which are important qualities for future doctors.
Lack of Self-Awareness: Not being able to articulate your true motivations, or giving coached, generic answers (like “I want to save my grandmother”) without personal reflection, signals a lack of authenticity.
Advice for Aspiring Doctors:
Follow Your Own Conviction: The hosts stress the importance of pursuing medicine out of genuine interest and passion, not because of external pressures. True conviction and resilience will carry you through the toughest moments in training and practice.
Be Honest and Authentic: Prepare for interviews, but ensure your answers reflect your real experiences and beliefs. Assessors value honesty and can spot rehearsed or insincere responses.
Embrace Second Chances: Not getting into medical school on the first attempt is not the end. There are alternative pathways, such as reapplying after gaining new achievements or considering overseas or postgraduate programs. Use any setbacks as opportunities to grow and strengthen your application.
Mental Health Matters: Recognize your own limits and don’t be afraid to take a gap year or seek help if you struggle with stress or mental health challenges. Medicine is demanding, and self-care is vital for long-term success.
Diversity Is Valued: Socioeconomic background does not disadvantage applicants in the selection process. What matters is your confidence, presentation, and ability to communicate your unique perspective.
Enjoy the Process: The journey to medical school is challenging but also enriching. Don’t let stress overshadow the experience, and remember that success in medicine is about continuous growth, not a single achievement.
Does your Family Background matter in a Medical School Interview?
The hosts of Uncle Talk emphasize that candidates from less privileged backgrounds do make it to the interview stage and are assessed on equal footing with their peers. However, some students from lower-income families may experience self-doubt or lack confidence, particularly if their command of English or presentation skills differ from those of more affluent applicants.
The hosts encourage all candidates to present themselves appropriately and confidently, regardless of background, stressing that professionalism and authenticity matter more than socioeconomic status.
Medical schools in Singapore now admit students from a broad range of walks of life, and the hosts believe this diversity is essential for producing doctors who can relate to and care for patients from all segments of society. They point out that doctors who have experienced different social or economic circumstances are often better equipped to understand the challenges faced by their patients, especially in fields like family medicine. The hosts also caution assessors to be mindful of their own biases, ensuring that selection is based on merit and character rather than resemblance to themselves or traditional stereotypes.
Ultimately, the podcast reassures aspiring doctors that coming from a less privileged background is not a barrier to entry. Confidence, self-awareness, and a genuine commitment to the profession are key factors in succeeding during the selection process and in medical training itself.
Conclusion
If you’re considering a career in medicine or supporting someone who is, we invite you to listen to the full first episode of Uncle Talk. Dr Leong Choon Kit and his co-hosts share honest stories, practical advice, and answer real questions about medical school admissions, the realities of training, and what it truly means to be a doctor.
Whether you’re a student, parent, or just curious about the journey, this episode will give you valuable insights and encouragement for every stage of the process.
If you have questions or topics you’d like to be discussed in future episodes, leave a comment below-we’d love to hear from you.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more candid conversations from the frontlines of healthcare.
