A SURVEY OF FINAL YEAR MEDICAL-STUDENTS AT UNIVERSITY-COLLEGE, GALWAY

The results of this survey of final year medical students at a provinc ial Irish university showed that over three-quarters came from familie s in which at least one parent was in a professional or semi-professio nal occupation. The majority of the students had repeated their Leavin g Certificate examination. Most students expressed dissatisfaction wit h the career guidance counselling they received during their second le vel education. All the students came from secondary schools. While the majority expressed satisfaction with their choice of University cours e, approximately one-third had considered withdrawing from the course, particularly during the pre-clinical years. The main reasons given we re financial difficulties, personal problems and difficulties with the course. Despite the provision of student counsellors and academic sta ff members to assist such students, the majority did not consult any s taff member for help. Most students expected they would have to obtain employment outside of Ireland.