Medical school reflection

The last couple of months have gone by in a blur. Starting medicine in September was a big decision and so it is only fitting that I reflect on that decision and the journey thus far. 

We started off with a “principles block.” For those interested, my university does teaching in blocks, and this year is a principles block of the basic science and subjects that run through medicine, respiratory, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal. The principles block, although not to everyone’s taste, brought back my obsession for science. Alongside that I had my first experience with a cadaver, an experience which was completely different from what I had anticipated having felt nervous and anxious until the cadaver was revealed. To all those who have donated their bodies for the education of medical students, I can’t thank them enough. 

Experiencing my first placement in GP was eye opening. I haven’t always had a positive opinion of GPs, particularly because of my own personal experiences, but as I sat with the GP and saw 24 patients in the space of 3 hours, I appreciated the pressure they must feel. I was also more convinced that this was not the career path for me. Placement in hospitals however has been a very different experience, one that I have loved and can’t get enough of. The hospital setting, the work within a team and the more specialised cases that you see has only drawn me more to working in that environment. 

As I start the second week of respiration, I am more amazed by the human body and the career of a doctor and can honestly say that making the decision to pursue a career in medicine has been one of my best.