Navigating MBBS: Essential Insights for Medical Students
Undertaking a medical school journey, or MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), can be both challenging and rewarding. Here are some essential tips and insights to guide you through your academic and professional journey.
Key Insights for Success in MBBS
1. Realism and Maturity:
The transition from school to medical school is a significant one. It's important not to expect the same level of appreciation from your teachers and peers as you did during school. Instead, be prepared to handle criticism and even insults, as they can shape your skills and knowledge. Maintain your maturity and perspective, as it will serve you well in the long run.
2. Effective Learning Habits:
While it's tempting to dive deep into the minutiae of every book, it's more important to focus on grasping the overarching concepts. Efficiency is key, so make sure to keep moving and focus on understanding the core principles rather than memorizing every detail.
3. Avoid Bad Habits:
Unhealthy habits can hinder your progress and negatively impact your mental and physical health. Developing self-control and avoiding bad habits will contribute to your overall growth as a future healthcare professional.
Overcoming Challenges in MBBS
1. The Pressure and Rewards:
MBBS can be a hectic and challenging program. However, the rewards are immense. As you progress, you'll notice that it's worth all the hard work. Your friends and family can be good sources of support if you share your problems and seek their advice. Remember to balance your workload and maintain a healthy social life.
2. Coping with Struggles:
Throughout your medical journey, you will encounter various challenges. Whether it's low scores, failed exams, or struggles with specific subjects, it's important to keep a positive mindset. As a senior and a friend, I can assure you that everyone feels lost or overwhelmed at some point. What matters is that you persist and keep learning and growing.
Remember, medicine is one of the most beautiful professions, and it has been chosen for you. Keep showing up every day, with the hunger to learn and help others. Trust that you will find your way and thrive in this challenging yet fulfilling field.
Personal Reflections on Medical Practice
1. Empathy and Presence:
Even as a well-established clinician, you may encounter situations that make you feel helpless, such as when a patient is diagnosed with a terminal illness. In such moments, the role of a medical professional extends beyond medical knowledge and treatment. Sometimes, simply being there and listening to the patient can provide comfort. This act of presence is a form of support that transcends traditional medical practice.
Understanding that there are limits to what medicine can achieve, especially in the face of life-ending illnesses, is crucial for empathy and compassion. As a doctor, your role is to support the patient emotionally and provide comfort during their last moments.
2. Balancing Responsibility and Compassion:
Professors often emphasize the importance of balancing clinical responsibility with compassion. In extreme situations, where there is no medically viable solution, your role is to provide emotional support and understanding. Sometimes a listen is all a patient needs during their toughest times.
It's important to remember that not every situation allows for this, and not every doctor has the time or resources to provide this level of support. However, when it's possible, it can make a significant difference in a patient's experience and passing.
Here's a picture I took during a class where we discussed these challenges - it showed that even during lectures, we sometimes need to practice the very empathy and understanding we're learning to offer. Signing off, Bodhadipto Kundu.
Disclaimer:
The views and insights shared in this article are based on personal experiences and are not professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for issues related to your health or medical education.