University
Vitebsk State Medical University

Current Year
Third

Medical Specialty Interested in
Emergency Medicine

Most Inspiring Person
My Parents

Single Quality that defines a great Doctor
Attitude

First of all, walk us through the step-by-step processes that you went through to get to where you are today?

I completed my O’levels in Majeediyya and got 4 A's, 3 B's and 1 C. Since I got a C in Mathematics I wanted to improve my grade and got it up to a B. I then moved to Sri Lanka to complete my A levels and during that time I faced two losses in my family. Within a span of 8 months I lost my favorite cousin brother and my favorite woman in the world, my grandmother. Both of them were like my best friends and it affected me a lot. Hence, I decided to stop continuing my studies and take some time off.  

I then searched for the pre-medicine programs and enrolled in a medical foundation course. I was part of the first batch from Sri Lanka. By the time I finished the program, I got my placement in Vitebsk State Medical University since the Medical foundation course was conducted by them. 

When did you first realize you wanted to study medicine?

Since I was young a lot of people talked to me about pursuing medicine but I always had mixed feelings about it. I finally made the decision to pursue medicine the day my grandmother died – 5th August 2015. On that day I saw how my whole extended family suffered and putting all our hopes into one single doctor to make sure my grandmother survives. I never want another family to go through what we went through. 

Take us through a typical study day.

It depends on the day since on some of the days I start my classes in the afternoon. However, on most days classes start at 8:30 am or 9:00 am, and finish at 3:00 pm or 4:00 pm. Afterwards, I take my lunch and take a nap for 2 hours. I start my studying then. I check if I have any exams the following week or if I have any assignments to complete. It is around 8:00 pm by the time I start and I continue my studies up until 2:00 am or 3:00 am on some nights. 

This year we had microbiology and I had to spend sleepless nights studying for the exam. Normally, our teacher would tell us which topic we would be studying the next week. So, if we have Muscles of the Lower Limb in Anatomy on a Tuesday, I will start studying for it the Thursday or Friday of the previous week. This is the type of system we have at our university. 

I don’t have a fixed time for sleep or waking up. It depends on the class schedule for the day.

How do you deal with unexpected low marks?

For example, if I go expecting 8 or 9 out of 10 and I get a 4 (which is the pass percentage in our university), I try to stay positive and try to improve for the next class. Of course, I get disappointed when I first get my result since I worked hard to get a good grade. However, I try to remember that it’s not all about learning from the book in medical school. It’s mostly how you learn to apply what you study. Practical and clinical aspects of studying are far more important than the theory aspect. 

Also, it’s always nice to be blessed with a couple of friends who’ll always be there for you when your day seems depressing. Shout out to my best friends Kethmi, Joel and Ranul.

What is your least favorite thing to do, and how do you deal with it?

In the first and second year of medical school we had basic nursing classes. In some of the classes when they send me for duty, I might have to go to the nurse station and roll cotton all day. Those are the kind of things I hate to do. Since it’s part of the curriculum I just do it.

Fill in the blank. I love my university, however, __________________________ .

I wish it was located nearer to Maldives so that I can visit my parents whenever I want to.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started medical school?

To be honest, I wish I put a bit more effort in Biochemistry. The subject teaches us chain reaction that occur in the body hence, it is a vital subject for a medical student. I realized the importance of the subject too late.

What do you think needs to change in the health industry of the Maldives today?

In my opinion, the doctors need to get a bit more protection. I have lived in Sri Lanka for 3 years and I have seen how they treat the doctors there. They are literally treated like gods. Now, what I mean by protection is that the community needs to learn to respect doctors and realize that they are humans too. Doctors are allowed to make mistakes. Assault on doctors are common in the Maldives. The doctors need more rights and assurance so that they feel protected while working. 

Especially, doctors working in the emergency department are interacting directly with the patient’s family and/or friends. In big cases such as stab wounds and gang fights where emotions will run high, the doctor needs protection.

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

Learn to prioritize. Whether it is med school or university, this is the stage in your life where you get to do everything and you find out about everything. You go through heaven and hell at the same time. Whatever situation you may be in, focus on what you came here to do. It’s okay to have fun and experience new things. However, remember that you came here to study medicine and then remember all the people that are behind you. Never forget them. Specially on days you feel down where you have loads to study and you’re stressed. Just remember there are many with high hopes that you will one day return as a good doctor. 

Feel motivated by reminding yourself how much of a big task you have taken on. Realize the fact that if you start practicing you can continue doing so until your last breath. This career does not have an age limit. You can become a legend in what you do. 

Also, remember from the first day onwards whether you become a doctor or not, to not feel proud about yourself. Finally, don’t ever forget your parent’s sacrifices. Even though you went to study on a scholarship, no one would have high hopes for you more than your parents. If you have a good relationship with your parents you are going to cruise through your studies and manage stress well.

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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