University
Chittagong Medical College

Current Year
Fifth

Medical Specialty Interested in
Cardiology, Gastroenterology

Most Inspiring Person
Dr. Ali Shafeeq

Single Quality that defines a great Doctor
Empathy

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 from Aminiya School, securing 1st place in the National top ten. I then did my A’levels from CHSE and the goal was to attain 1st in A’levels as well. Coincidentally things didn’t go according to plan and I didn’t do as well as I’d wanted to. 

That was the first of many disappointments that were to follow that year but at the time, I chose not to dwell on it. Immediately I proceeded to do O’level in 2 further subjects I’d been interested in; History and Economics. 

As soon as I completed my exams, I applied for a job at ADK. That was my first clinical experience. I worked at ADK for nearly 8 months before continuing at IGMH for a further 4 months. 

Somewhere between completing my exams and joining ADK, a slight mishap had prevented me from applying for the first round of the student loan scheme. The second round of the loan scheme required a draw which I lost. I was heavily relying on the loan scheme at that point, so that came as quite a blow. 

I was working at IGMH at the time and a colleague who was planning to come here suggested looking into it. That's how I came to know about Chittagong Medical College.

When did you first realize you wanted to study medicine?

I can’t pinpoint a specific moment in time that made me decide I wanted to become a doctor. But, I suppose my late grandmother who practiced traditional medicine may have had a lot to do with my initial inspiration to venture into the field. To leave a mark half as profound as she did, would be quite the honor. 

Years later, my job as a clinical assistant only fueled my enthusiasm further. 

Take us through a typical study day.

An ideal day for me would start with the Fajr prayer after which I’d take a nap with an hour to spare before college. That would give me plenty of time to have a proper breakfast and get ready at my own pace. Mornings for us start at 8 am with a lecture followed by ward posting for 2 hours. If we are lucky, we’d get a half an hour break in between ward and the rest of the lectures. Our day would then end at 2:30 pm. 

Back at the hostel, after praying and lunch, I study before leaving for evening wards that are again assigned 2 hours. The allocated time for evening wards is usually 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm but it often varies. After I get back, unless I have an exam of sorts, I usually have a bit of time for myself before sleeping. Usually, I’m fast asleep before 11 pm. 

Over the years, I’ve come to realize I’m more productive during the day, my productivity literally taking on the shape of a bell curve as the day drags on so I try to get as much studying done as I can during the day. The key I guess would be to study productively regardless of how or when you do it. 

How do you deal with unexpected low marks?

I took it pretty hard the first few years but my understanding of the matter is that there really is no way about it other than trying to improve in places where you are lacking in. It is disheartening, disappointing, you name it but you can either be pessimistic about it and give in or be optimistic and think of it as another lesson that would ultimately help build you up. Of course, it’s easier said than done. 

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

Our curriculum involves tests on nearly a daily basis and often, they are oral examinations. While I wholly believe in the purpose behind these exams, sometimes the rush and the added anxiety cuts down its effectiveness for me, personally. Keeping that in mind, I try my best to prepare myself simultaneously as the topics are being taught, which helps a great deal.

Name your favorite medical text book.

Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine.

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

Being a third world country and all, we still rely mainly on manpower in administration which is not always very efficient and we lack quite a bit on the technology front as well.

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

I don’t think any amount of advice or pep talks could have prepared me for the roller coaster that is med school. Even then, I wish I knew just how much dedication and hard work it would require.

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

Our entire healthcare system is more or less centered around the central hub that is Male’ both in terms of service providers and the facilities and resources that are available. That results in an influx of patients that greatly outnumbers the service providers, leaving both parties wary and dissatisfied. Right now, I feel like decentralization is crucial to any progress we hope to achieve.

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

Failure in inevitable. Disappointments are part of life. Don’t let the fear of that keep you from chasing your dreams. If you’re dedicated, hardworking and you know this is the field for you, go for it! The way I see it, whatever you choose to do in life, ultimately what would dictate your success would be the work you are willing to put into it.

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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