Worried student-how hard is the course?

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Hi,
I am thinking of becoming a podiatrist but I am seriously worried about my academic ability to do the course. I nursed in the past but did my training in 1980's so its very different now! (I have an open university diploma)
Alot of postings on this forum say its not an easy course so i would like to know what the essay questions and exam are like and do you think as a very mature student at (53) its worth it?
Thanks
Sally

 

Hi Sally, in our course (Australia) the first year units eg anatomy sorted the wheat from the chaff. We used to start with about 30 and the biggest dropout was over the first year anatomy unit. Maybe give it a go if you have a semester to spare...

 

Hi Sally I did mine in Perth satrted when I was 33ish. When it was a three year course. Its now 4 I think. We were not allowed to fail a subject or we had to repeat that year so the pressure was on. If you are 53 now you have to judge if its worth it finanially. Nursing is more physical work, however so it Podiatry if your doin alot of Domincillary work on your knees cutting Nails and Corns. So if youve got back problems think hard. Biomech seemed the hardest to get peoples heads around, as it wasnt just verbatum regurgitation like most other subjects you had to think like a foot..... The Theory level is high and most pod courses dont "Add" grades to make up 50% passes you must get at least 50% in each assessment to pass, or so it was then.

Anyway good luck

 

no health/medical degree will be easy, but its important you go in confident. If you go in thinking you will fail, the chances are that you will fail.
Be positive, realise everyone is learning new information and be realistic about how much time you can spend in the evenings/weekends on study. Also be aware that for those coming straight from school who are used to studying it will be easier to establish a routine than for those who have been used to working and having their evenings "free".
Even though you must pass all aspects of the course, the final grade does not neccessarily reflect your ability. Obtaining a First is not obligatory
At the end of the day you need sit and weigh up the cost, time, strain on family / relationships, amount of years you wish to remain in the workforce - ie, is it worth spending 4 years studying if you plan retire at 60? - and then the benefits of changing career to Podiatry. Be honest with yourself, be willing to work hard and be positive.

I hope you make the choice that is best for you

 

Hi,
Thanks to everyone who replied-its been very useful!
Sally