2022 was a probably great year for everyone. A lot happened and every sector was affected in one way or the other, with every continent being hit by something. Moving on from the pandemic, we all thought we had seen the worst of it but now having this year where, there has been non-stop inflations, natural disasters, war, the death of the Queen and so much more. 2022 is indeed a year to remember. As an international medical graduate, I have had reflections this year and noticed a few changes.
More Job Opportunities
With the UK leaving the European Union (EU), more job opportunities have been created than people realise. Being intentional about your goals will make you see an employment gap in an industry you want to get into. I know people have had to settle for less for so long while trying to figure out a path. The good news is 2022 has created a huge gap in the workforce for not just medical or health care professionals but for everyone else. This means that spouses and relatives moving to the UK that are not in the healthcare industry stand a huge chance of getting good jobs if they properly do their research and apply strategically.
Fewer Exam Dates
As an international medical graduate, I try to create blog posts that would create an impact for IMGS. So many IMGs have had to wait for months just to take their exams and unfortunately there are now even more fewer exam dates. I am not sure what the main reason for this is but when I wrote the PLAB (an exam for foreign medical graduates to get licensed in the U.K) exams few years back, there were exams dates readily available. However, that does not seem to be the case anymore with people having to wait for as much as a year to get a date. Most times their English certification exam expires, meaning they will have to rewrite the exam. What this means for anyone in this phase, is that your first attempt has to be your best shot. Give it all you have got as there is no time to waste on multiple attempts because that time is not just available anymore. Exams slots are filling up quickly.
2022 Was An Eye Opener
Essentially, with change happening so quickly everyday, it is important to become relevant, and/or having a recession-proof job. Even with recession-proof jobs, it is now important to hold a position that will remain relevant. For example, doctors need to get into training because the pandemic saw many doctors who relied on Locum roles jobless for lengthy periods of time. If you are in a non-health care industry, take the plunge, find ways to get a relevant role, take courses, take exams. The world is changing and quicker than we all anticipate.
What About Alternative Sources Of Income?
It is now very important to consider having an additional source of income. This is mainly because the continuous rise in cost of living has made it difficult for people to rely solely on one source. For international medical graduates, a majority of whom will not be eligible for public funds, the reality is to have multiple streams of income. Many people now branch into several aspects that can generate a form of revenue. It is easy to get caught up in debts, it is now time to think outside the box.
Overall, year 2022 brought so much, many pof which I consider blessings and I am grateful for everything. I am also grateful for everyone who has been with me on this journey. I am not where I hope to be with Berrysmotivation but I know God has a special plan for me. Stick with me as we continue on this journey in 2023.
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Cheers
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