FAQs

Still got questions about the Personal Academic Tutor scheme? Find your answers below, or where to seek further help.

Still got questions about the Personal Academic Tutor scheme? Have a look through the list below and see if your question appears. If you are still finding yourself puzzling over something, contact the Personal Academic Tutors team and they will be more than happy to help.

 

What is the purpose of a Personal Academic Tutor?

Your Personal Academic Tutor is there to support you throughout your studies, particularly if you feel you are struggling. They are also able to give you general advice about your studies and future career.

It’s a good idea to keep in regular contact with your tutor so that they are better able to help, even if things are currently fine - they also want to help you celebrate your successes and hear what is going well! You may also one day wish to ask them to complete a reference for you, and they will only be able to do this if you have met! 

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What’s the difference between a Personal Academic Tutor and an MBBS Tutor?

Your Personal Academic Tutor is there to offer a general supporting hand should you need it. They should be your first point of contact with any concerns you may have and are there to listen, offering help and advice where possible, or referring on for further support where necessary.

MBBS Tutors are better able to help with health issues affecting your studies; financial issues; course interventions like interrupting or withdrawing from your studies; and regulatory issues.

Your Personal Academic Tutor will refer you on to the Programme and Progression Support Team if needed, but you can also go directly to the service should you wish.

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Should I contact my Personal Academic Tutor or should they contact me?

Tutors will make initial contact if you are in Year 1 or Year 4, and from then on contact should be led by you. If you are continuing with the same tutor we recommend you aim to make contact at the start of term to establish a loose plan for contact going forward. Students should take responsibility for contacting their tutor throughout the year, even if it’s just to check in and let them know all is well. 

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How often should I meet with my tutor?

Ideally you should aim to contact your tutor once a term, even if all is well. You can meet more frequently than this if required, and it is usually a good idea to access their support around assessments.  They may also check in on you from time to time. 

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What should I talk about with my tutor?

Your Personal Academic Tutor is available to help you can address anything that may be concerning you, whether it is personal problems or academic, and of course they are there to share in your achievements as well. But if you’d like some inspiration on topics to talk about with your tutor, you can download this guide to conversations with your tutor. 

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What do I do if I can’t contact my tutor?

Do bear in mind many are clinicians and are very busy, but if after a reasonable amount of time you are still unable to get hold of your tutor, please contact the Personal Academic Tutors team on medsch.personaltutors@ucl.ac.uk. 

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What do I do if there is an issue with my tutor?

If you have any concerns regarding your tutor, whether you don’t feel comfortable talking to them or are having trouble getting in touch, you can contact  medsch.personaltutors@ucl.ac.uk.

Question not answered here? Contact the Personal Academic Tutors team.

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