More than 400 students from second-level schools throughout Ireland got a taste for life as a medical, pharmacy and physiotherapy student today at the annual Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) Open Day.

During the day-long event, Leaving Certificate and A' Level students got the opportunity to meet with RCSI staff, students and graduates, to give them an idea of what it is like to study medicine, pharmacy and physiotherapy and take up careers in these areas. A series of talks were held on the range of courses available at RCSI and how to apply to RCSI through the CAO system. An exhibition was hosted by faculties and staff, who were on hand to answer any questions the students had.

Information was provided on the wide choice of clubs and societies available in RCSI as well as information on student accommodation, library and sports facilities. Other highlights of the day included a student panel discussion, whereby current students gave their perspectives on studying at RCSI. Students also heard about the experiences of junior doctors, who have recently graduated from RCSI.

Philip Curtis, Head of Admissions at RCSI, said: "The annual Open Day provides second level students with a great opportunity to get a sense of life, both academic and social at RCSI. With talks from staff, current students and graduates, students are able to get a real sense of what life as a medical, physiotherapy or pharmacy student is really like."