University 
Al-Azhar University

Current Year 
Second

Medical Specialty Interested in 
Orthopedics

One Word that Describes You 
Genuine

Most Intriguing subject in Medical School 
Anatomy

What was your path to Medical School like?

I studied in Al Madhrasathul Arabiyyathul Islamiyya for 11 years. When I was in 7th grade, they announced that our High school at the time - Mauhadh, was being merged with our school. Hence, I completed my 12th grade there as well. 

In our school, O'Level and A'Levels are different from other schools in the Maldives. We study for one certificate - Shahaadha Saanaviyya, that we get when we graduate our 12th grade. This certificate is equivalent to the A'Level certificate. 

Afterwards, I joined ADK Hospital after taking a break for a couple of months. It was there that my interest in the Medicine field grew. The 3 months I spent there was good, helpful and informative. I also gave Arabic tuition to younger students so that I wouldn't lose touch on my Arabic language. Since it is a foreign language, it is important to always keep practicing. 

Almost all students that come to Al-Azhar University from the Maldives come through the scholarship awarded by the Department of Higher Education (DHE). This way most of our expenses are covered by the government. 

When we get here, we have to do an Arabic test at first. Based on the marks you get you might have to do a course that may last between 1 - 12 months. Be sure to keep in touch with Arabic language after you finish Arabiyya. It is important for the test.

What was the biggest difference between your expectations of entering Med School when you were doing A'level, and the actual experience of being there?

I talked to many Maldivian students that were on break from Al-Azhar University. From what they told me, my expectations were low regarding the living conditions and studies.However, when we got here they were a lot better than we expected at first.

Moreover, the amount of content we get everyday was more than I expected. Also, since this is an Islamic University, we do not get fresh cadavers due to ethics. This was disappointing, especially every time I talk to my friends studying in other countries.

How is your daily routine like?

I normally wake up 6:30 or 7 am, since classes start at 8 am. This year we have our practical classes before noon, and afterwards we have 3-4 lectures. It's a 15 minute car ride to the campus.

After I come home, I relax for a while; either sleep or play a game with my friends. I try to start my studies as soon as possible since I find it difficult to lay awake as the night goes on. Every day, I study until I am satisfied. If I'm not satisfied for that day, I study a bit more the next day. I go to sleep between 11 pm and 12 am.

Do you have any family members or role models who are physicians?

I have a cousin who is doing her Internship this year. I do look up to her ever since she started her Medical school. We do talk from time to time, and share things we learnt in university. Plus, I used to see her always studying in Male', so the motivation I get is from her.

I also look up to Dr. Ali Niyaf, but I was unfortunate not to get the chance to work with him while I was in ADK.

Why do you think some doctors are unhappy practicing medicine?

Doctors are not appreciated enough. We always hear on the news or through people, that doctors do not give enough attention to people. Or that they are not good enough. Most of these criticism is directed towards General doctors.

One thing that everyone should remember is that General doctors are different from Specialists. They prescribe common medicine and are not as informative as a Specialist. Since many people do not understand this, the doctors are judged. As a result, doctors feel doubt about their careers. 

One other thing I noticed too was, patients getting frustrated because they had to wait for some time outside the consultation room. Or getting angry because a doctor took a break. Again, doctors are humans, they deserve a rest. I feel that doctors are unappreciated and this leads them to be unhappy.

Name your favorite medical text book.  

Netter's Atlas of Human Anatomy.

Which Topic did you find the most Difficult in Medical School?

I can't think of a specific topic, but we started studying Neuroanatomy this year. I have to learn about a lot nerves and remember them by heart. Hence, I find the subject difficult.

What is the most effective way to study in Medical School?

This is the way I study on my own; learn every single day. Even if you miss a single day, you're wasting a lot of time. 

Rather than setting a specific time to study each day, study until you feel satisfied. If you set a specific time, instead of studying we procrastinate or even do something completely unrelated. And when the set time ends, we are forced to stop studying.

When exams get closer, I spend a lot of time in my room studying. Since I'm spending almost the whole day inside, it is a must to go out and relax at one point.

Do you need High grades to become a decent doctor?

Ever since our school days, the mentality is that 'Higher the grade, Better the student'. Our parents always want us to be best in class.

In my opinion, this does not apply to Medical school. You can be a good doctor even without having the highest grades. You just have to have the passion for it. 

Here in the Maldives, we see that patients actually want doctor who is better at communicating rather than someone who got higher grades. 

Finally, what is the one tip/advice you want to give to our readers?

Make sure you want to study for the rest of your life. New discoveries and research is being made every day, so you'll have to renew your knowledge often. 

It is important to know that you are committing to Medicine for life. Not just the 6 or 7 years you spend in Medical school.

The My Medical Student Life series was created for the sole purpose of helping medical students and aspiring doctors on their journey to become a successful Maldivian Healthcare Professional. Have a suggestion, idea or question? Email us.

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