Why Fellowship matters: a personal reflection on growth and belonging

As I sat in the main auditorium at 30 Euston Square, waiting to receive my fellowship, a wave of imposter syndrome washed over me. I was deeply honoured when a colleague nominated me, but looking around at the remarkable achievements of those being recognised alongside me, I couldn’t help but question whether I truly belonged. I came away feeling so proud to have been elected a fellow but knew I would need to up my game if I was to feel that I merited it.

Joining my local faculty

One of my first steps in engaging more deeply was joining my local RCGP faculty. A few months later, I was elected to sit on our Fellowship Committee, where we review applications to ensure they meet the high standards required, and more importantly, identify and reach out to potential candidates. It’s joyful work, being able to turn to a colleague and say, “You’ve been doing some incredible things, and I’d love to nominate you for fellowship.” We always remind people that self-nomination is equally welcome and encouraged.

At a time when our profession is under huge pressure and morale is low, it’s wonderful to be able to celebrate the achievements of colleagues and shine a spotlight on the excellence that goes on daily in general practice. I also sit on the Faculty’s Awards committee, where one of our highlights each year is judging the medical school poster presentations. I never cease to be impressed by the standards - it’s far higher than anything I could have produced at that stage. I learn a lot from these posters and feel reassured that the future of our profession is in good hands.

Advocating for confidence, community, and growth

My evangelism for fellowship and the belief that it can genuinely boost self-esteem and help foster resilience, enabled me to become involved nationally in shaping fellowship. Over the past decade, the RCGP team has done a fantastic job of streamlining the fellowship applications process and raising its visibility. In recent years, we've made it even more accessible: the application fee has been progressively reduced and will be completely abolished from April 2025.

Applicants now need just two supporters instead of three, with shorter statements, and we’ve removed the requirement for a colleague to attest to clinical skills. We've also clarified that only the most serious complaints or criminal convictions are a barrier to applying.

If you’ve been a GP for more than five years, I’d really encourage you to consider applying for fellowship. Visit the RCGP website to learn more, it’s a meaningful way to reflect on your career and a great PDP item for your next appraisal.

Why the College matters to me

My growing connection with the College has brought me to numerous Annual Conferences and given me the chance to engage with some of the true titans of general practice. It’s been an incredible privilege to work alongside them, and I’ve gained so much wisdom through these experiences.

My career has been enriched by my involvement with the RCGP, and I believe it could offer the same for many others. If you’re not yet part of your local faculty committee, why not ask to sit in on their next meeting? You’ll be met with open arms, and you never know where that first step might lead.