It seems like only yesterday I started my first year of Medical School, time literally flew. Despite the ups and downs and everything in between, I’m pleased to say that first year was everything I though it would be and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I learnt so much about myself as a person and also about those around me, lessons that will genuinely last a lifetime, so I thought I’d share some with you.
1. BE CONFIDENT IN YOUR OWN ABILITY.
You’ll be around a lot of intelligent people, just know you’re capable of more than you think you are. It’s okay not to be top of the class. You’re going to be a doctor either way. You’re there for a reason, don’t doubt your abilities because you wouldn’t have been here if you were not capable enough
2. YOU DETERMINE WHAT SUCCESS MEANS, IT’S SUBJECTIVE TO EACH INDIVIDUAL.
Success develops a different meaning in Medical School. You were probably one of the top in your class during sixth form/ college but now you’re hit with the harsh reality that you will not know everything and for some that can be a difficult pill to swallow. Medical School is difficult that’s why it is important that you set your own realistic goals in terms of what you want to achieve.
3. FIND YOUR PEOPLE.
Having friends who are study buddies is key as they become your support system, together we’re stronger. Your friends in medical tend to become your friends for life because you end up spending a great amount of time together.
4. YOU HAVE TO FIND THE BALANCE AND MAINTAIN IT!
Time management is extremely important! You are bombarded with a great amount of content so you need to distribute your time according to the amount of work you need to do as well as balancing your social life to maintain you sanity.
5. IT’S OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP!
Don’t deprive yourself of knowledge and understanding by not asking questions. Take each moment as a learning opportunity and if you’re too shy to ask questions in person email your lecturers.
6. KNOW HOW YOU LEARN BEST.
With so much content to learn in such a short space of time, the quicker you determine your most effective study technique the better. Also remember that different topics require different study techniques.
7. PRIORITISE!
Due to the demanding nature of the course you may feel like you’re missing out on a lot but just know this is a sacrifice. Studying Medicine is the reason you are at university, therefore this should take up most of your time, so stay focused and avoid anything that can have a negative impact on your studies.
8. BE PROACTIVE!
Medicine is already competitive so apply for roles in societies, make contacts with doctors & put yourself out there! Do all you can to get involved with activities in your university as they can add to you CV.
9. YOUR HEALTH COMES 1ST.
Don’t compromise your health to try and be top of the class. Without a sound body or mind, your efforts are pointless
10. CONTINUOUSLY REMIND YOURSELF OF WHY YOU CHOSE MEDICINE
I know that I chose the right course because I genuinely couldn’t see myself doing anything else & never thought I would enjoy it as much as I do.
We’d love to know what Medical School has taught our current Medics & Doctors so far, feel free to comment down below.