As senior medical students in the UK, we read Dr Stein's letter on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)(2) and began wondering where we fit in, in this pandemic. As the government heads into a 'war footing',(13) there is an increased need for medical staff. There is speculation of bringing back retired doctors, many of who fall into at-risk categories. With clinical placement and exams cancelled, we are determined to use our hard-earned skills in some way, to help in what is the biggest global emergency of our lifetime.