The Journey Through Pre-Medical Preparation: Worth It?
When reflecting on my pre-medical preparation, I can't help but wonder if all the sacrifices were truly worth it. Studying for 2 years at a distant place from my hometown was perhaps the lowest point of my life so far.
The Harsh Reality of Pre-Med Prep
Leaving home at 14: Saying goodbye to my family and home for two years, with slim chances of returning, was extremely painful. The ecstasy of topping my 10th standard with a score of 95 was short-lived. Soon, fear and anxiety replaced it as I faced the rigors of pre-medical preparation and the challenges of adjusting to a new environment and culture.
The First Week at Vijayawada
Upon arrival at Vijayawada, new students were given a quick yet harsh MCQ test to place us into sections based on our scores. There was a contentious haggling over fee discounts based on 10th marks and MCQ performance. Our days were structured around waking at 5 AM, a sleepy and half-hungry morning of classes, and a lottery-like breakfast that was often inedible. Afternoons brought mandatory study sessions for each subject, a WTF experience that didn't align with my expectations.
The Mind-numbing Routine
The routine continued for 2 years, with very few breaks for fun or relaxation. Outings beyond campus were brief and infrequent, discouraged by most students. Some pushed themselves to study non-stop without sleep, a not really a long-term solution. Mistakes in cumulative tests were met with severe backlash, leading me to feel PTSD episodes when recalling those years.
Living Conditions and Academic Environment
The living conditions were far from ideal. Water problems and the close proximity to others in small spaces led to a foul environment. Teachers were often mediocre, with little understanding of learning objectives, making the glossy prospectuses of the college a mockery. Only a few great lecturers stood out.
Was It Worth It?
While the entire experience was a bit of a systematic BS, my efforts did pay off. I managed to get into a government college despite poor guidance and value for fee, a testament to my hard work. This preparation laid the foundation for a 12-year medical career marked by world-class clinical exposure. Although I don't regret it, I sometimes struggle with flashbacks of those grueling years.
Online Classes and Future Perspectives
Looking ahead, with the advent of online classes, the pre-medical preparation system can be improved. Though the experience was challenging, the outcome was ultimately rewarding. My journey through pre-medical preparation ignited a passion for the medical field, and I will always be grateful for the foundation it provided.