My medical journey was a short-lived one. For me, 5 years in total flew by rather quickly in a blink of an eye. The pandemic made my experience of medical school seemed even more shorter.
As with any experiences, there is always a few take home messages or lessons and here are my non-medical takeaways from my 5 years in medical school.
1. You Can’t Change People, FOCUS On YOURSELF
When I entered my first year in medical school, I met a friend. She seemed to be going through some issues at that time and so was I. Perhaps it was due to me being away from home and such a people pleaser that whenever she planned something, even if I didn’t feel up for it, I would go.
She started mixing with the wrong crowds and it didn’t feel right for me to just leave her be. Hence, I would spend most of my time with her to watch over her.
Here I was, putting on my cape and gown, determined to make a difference but I should’ve known that, you can’t change people and the sooner you realise that, the better it is for you and for you to establish clear boundaries because if you can’t change the person, you MIGHT become like them or even WORSE.
You are the average of the 5 people you mix with.
Hence, it was not until my 4th / 5th year that I could overlook her apologies and issues, not to discount what she was going through but I was not in the state to help her anymore nor did I felt that she needed me to begin with. Naturally, I was very forgiving and I feel pity towards people easily. Thus, it was not an easy thing for me to do which is part of why it took me so long as well. However, when I needed to pick myself up, I realised that she has let me down multiple times and the people who were my rock and even praying for me during those times were far away. People I trusted since childhood. People who cautioned me multiple times and even gave me unsolicited advices. I knew then, I had to make a change.
It was because I did not filter my close circle of friends that I’ve allowed myself to be swept away by temptation and guilt and resulted in me spoiling various areas of my life. Nevertheless, it did taught me multiple lessons.
2. Love Yourself, Study First
Or God first, closely followed by Studies.
During my first 3 years in medical school, I used to put extra studying towards the end of my posting or block.
I’ve always thought that once I’ve completed the required topics, that would be enough. But it wasn’t. This action resulted in me forgetting almost everything by the end of the posting or block.
However, in order to be well-equipped in your chosen area of expertise, one needs to put in at least 10,000 hours of work solely into just that. How can I fit in 10,000 hours on top of the amount of studying and various topics that I need to cover?
I used to hear people say that after all is said and done, you will cherish those memories you’ve created in university. You won’t remember those countless hours of just sitting and studying.
Looking back, I do cherish some memories, certain outings with my friends during my senior year, that I do hold closely to my heart. However, the multiple outings which resulted in me returning back to my dorm late or even staying out during my early years in university, was just a sheer waste of time. Not to mention, lack of sleep as well as rushing to class early the next day.
Hence, selectively form your memories during university. You do not need to experience everything just for the fear of missing out.
3. Focusing On Your Side Hustle Is MORE IMPORTANT Than Going Out
Before my first year in University, I started a blog which I was determined to get it monetised but it fell away and during my third year, I started a YouTube channel which I was determined to have it monetised as well.
I realised early on that I wanted to have a teaching channel mainly for Pre-University students taking STPM. However, due to my lack of self discipline and multiple commitments at that time, it was always a back-burner.
Thus, towards the end of my senior year, I decided that I have to put it into action. However, if I could turn back time, I would definitely started earlier because it would’ve given me the kickstart I needed and have some passive income on the side as well as a sense of fulfilment .
It’s not too late I know. At least I’ve begun.
4. Visit Your Family
This varies according to the individual. For me, I was thankful to have a strong bond with my parents, being the only child, who supported me financially, emotionally as well as in my goals.
However, due to my interest of being with friends and chasing nonchalant dreams,I’ve stayed back multiple times or even made it a point to go back to my dorm as I was studying in another state.
But I realised that as I’m growing older, so are my parents and I never know just how much time I have left with them. Hence, prioritise those you consider your family, which for me are my parents, and visit them more even if they do not want to trouble you.
5. Don’t Drink Alcohol / Don’t Do Drugs / Don’t Smoke
Not everyone who does it are bad. Some have their occasional glass of wine or a can of beer.
However, if you are considering doing it on a daily basis or struggle with self-control, is it really necessary to form these bad habits? After all, once you are addicted, you require the money to “fund” these habits. Why spend your money on something that is tearing you apart emotionally and physically when you could invest it into experiences that will build you up?
Once you have gotten acquired to the taste or have form an addiction, getting out of it is difficult, as for me self-control is my vice. Forming the addiction took a short time but getting out of it took a toll on me and is something that I’m continuously working on.
If you are getting out of these, congratulations that you’ve finally set your foot down and decided to make a change. Keep going on because you’ve got this. However, if you’ve yet to, I strongly caution you NOT to. There is nothing that you’re missing out on.
6. Start SAVING
Even if it’s such a minuscule amount.
When I first entered university, I did not inculcate this habit of saving because I was given such a small amount of allowance. I’ve always thought that I would just earn more and after that, I would finally be able to have some savings.
However, as my allowance increased, so did my expenditure which I do not even know on what.
Hence, inculcate this healthy habit of saving even if it is such a small amount. Building the habit will take you far. Trust me, you will thankful for some extra cash untouched.
7. Join All Clubs / Societies / Events That INTERESTS You
University is the time for you to build HEALTHY experiences that will BUILD you up.
As for me, I’m thankful to have participated in various events as well as being part of the team of various events.
One of the few that I’m most proud of was being in charge of the Yearbook for my Senior’s batch as well as my batch.
Acquiring the cooperation of the whole batch was not an easy feat to accomplish but it definitely taught me various lessons on dealing with people and realising the reputation that I’ve built for myself. I’ve always struggled with low self-esteem but realising what I am actually capable of inserted a new perspective in myself and my purpose in life.
Discover you talents, hone it and BUILD HEALTHY EXPERIENCES.
8. Go To The Cafe / Library MORE
Basically whenever that motivates you to study.
A conducive environment which enhances your learning only motivates you to work or study more. Which is GOOD especially when you’re trying to get into deep work because when are you going to study?
Of course this depends on your course, the course I took required me to put in hours of studying. Theory as well as Practical were both essential.
9. Eat More OATS, AVOID Processed Foods AS MUCH AS YOU CAN
I just say this because I love oats (guilty). Basically, try to avoid junk foods or processed foods as much as you can and consume more foods which are beneficial for your health and aids you in going about your day.
The occasional cheat days happen and it is normal.
However, take it to heart that you need the boost and energy rather than empty calories.
10. READ More
Aside from your studies.
Before entering university, I used to love reading. Anything from fictional to non-fictional books. The library or bookstore was my favourite getaway.
However, as I entered University, my reading has reduced exponentially as I find myself reading more textbooks or anything related to my course as I did not have the time to just sit and pick a book.
Hence, if you’re like me, audiobooks or podcasts would be of great benefit. I started listening to audiobooks during my walks or chores and it was extremely beneficial as I found myself actually listening and absorbing the information rather than just sitting, which I find I tend to doze off easily.
Find which suits you. Through listening to audiobooks, I managed to cover multiple books on self-development which helped me throughout my journey in university.
11. Keep The PEACE Always
Keeping the peace is always better than having animosity with certain individuals.
Read that again. True, it would be better to just show how you feel about a certain person but you just never know when you need their help or when you are required to work with them and work becomes easier when you are able to begin in a good place.
This is especially important if you are living in the same household with them.
After a tiring and stressful day, a home is supposed to be the place for you to rest and recuperate. You do not need extra negative energy.
These are just a few advices I would like to share from what I’ve learnt throughout my university journey. Of course it varies with the individual but I do hope you do find some of it useful at least.
Wherever you are in life, I wish you the very best!
The Theoretical Doctor 