The Stay-Ahead Scheme organised and ran by Anita Parbhoo (Medical Student at Cardiff University) provides students with a unique and practical insight into University study within the Healthcare degrees (e.g. Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Optometry and Veterinary Sciences). In 3 days students learn about the basics of a healthcare course, how to prepare for a hugely increased workload, practice and advice on all-important note-taking from a seminar, tips on essay writing, and juggling coursework and exams. Examples of 1st year students’ work is shown to the delegates (including giving presentations, worksheets, notes, lab reports, and essays), and reading and preparation before starting the course is assisted and encouraged. Beginning a university course can be a daunting experience which takes a while to adjust to. This scheme has so much to offer prospective students to help lessen this discouragement, such as invaluable confidence, familiarity with a higher academic level, and an introduction to useful practical skills before beginning an exciting and rewarding career.