P8: A COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF INTENSIVE OUT-OF-TERM AND CONVENTIONAL TERM-TIME MENTORING SCHEMES IN PREPARING MEDICAL STUDENTS FOR A CAREER IN SURGERY

Abstract Introduction Mentoring schemes have been established to mitigate these concerns and improve interest in surgery among medical students; however, there is a paucity of research on whether conventional term-time (CTT) mentoring or more intensive out-of-term (IOT) meaningful promoting surgical careers. Method Most societies the UK offer CTT (ca. one-to-three during academic year) their members. In addition this, student-led society piloted an IOT scheme (one-to-one summer break). Students completed ten-point questionnaire at end year evaluating scheme(s) they participated in. Result Of 35 students that questionnaire, 74% either (1:1), 26% both. one considered be superior increasing (CTT 69%; 79%), while both favoured (78%). With regards preparedness for careers, was universally preferred. According previously determined levels engagement, maximum engagement achieved by 61.5% single week IOT, compared only 7.7% after full CTT. Conclusion outperforms with boosting This suggests introduction nationally may valuable advance future mentoring. Take-home message Adopting has shown positive outcome terms for, in, implementing such time could sensible future-step