Reflection is a learning experience in itself. It allows us to critically assess the ways in which we can improve. This is extremely valuable in the context of medical education where we need to draw learnings from both academic training and medical practice. Earlier this year, Professor Olle ten Cate delivered a public lecture at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland titled, What is a 21st Century Doctor? Professor ten Cate took time to reflect on how medical education has changed over the last century, and how it could evolve in the future.