Navigating the Challenges and Rewards of MBBS: A Student’s Perspective

Introduction to the MBBS Journey

As a medical student pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), the path ahead is paved with both challenges and rewards. The road is filled with moments of triumph and perseverance, making the journey not just academically demanding, but also personally transformative. Just like my parents, who pushed me to succeed, the MBBS journey hits you so hard that you often question whether you will survive the rigorous five and a half years.

Academic Struggles and Triumphs

Studying for an MBBS degree comes with immense stress. There are periods where the pressure is so overwhelming that you start doubting your ability to endure. Mental resilience is one of the key skills you must cultivate. The experience during my National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) preparation period taught me to keep a cool head and stick to my goals. I still remember the days when the entire hostel would remain silent for hours as every student focused on their studies, and how I shared the load with my roommate, taking turns to stay awake during night shifts.

Balancing Academics and Fun

Despite the intense academic workload, there are also moments of joy and camaraderie. We spent late nights giggling over hilarious moments from our gynaecology posting. And there are the special memories of trips that helped us bond after long periods of university exams. This experience showcases that even in the throes of intense academic pressure, there is room for fun and friendship.

Personal Discipline and Adapting to the Routine

Right now, I am midway through my first year university exams. Reflecting on the journey so far, I realize that within just ten months, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge and developed the incredible skill of revisiting an enormous syllabus in just one day. My daily schedule is meticulously planned to maximize efficiency and minimize distractions. Here’s a glimpse into my day:

Sample Daily Schedule

Non-Exam Day:

8:00 am - Wake up and get freshened up 8:30 am to 10:30 am - Study 10:30 am to 10:45 am - Short break for refreshment 10:45 am to 1:00 pm - Study 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm - Lunch break 1:30 pm to 8:00 pm - Intensive study with breaks in between 8:00 pm to 8:30 pm - Dinner break 8:30 pm to 3:00 am - Study session 3:00 am to 5:30 am - Sleep before early morning exam preparations 5:30 am - Wake up and revise for exam the day after 9:30 am - Get ready and head to the exam

The exam usually lasts from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm, and after lunch, I spend the afternoon revising and preparing for the next day. My nights often stretch well into the early hours, fueled by caffeine to keep me going. I still have plenty of syllabus to revise, making it uncertain whether I will get more than three hours of sleep some days. Yet, despite the exhaustion, there is a certainty that the late nights and early mornings will yield fruitful results.

Conclusion and Reflection

The MBBS journey is challenging, pushing you to your limits physically and mentally. However, it has also taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Dark circles under my eyes and the casual way I dress are reminders of my intense journey, but the knowledge gained and the friendships forged are invaluable. The journey isn’t over, and with dedication and hard work, the results will come.