My Advice as a 4th Year Medical Student
My Advice as a 4th Year Medical Student
Hi everyone! My name is Ayan Sadigova, and I am currently a 4th-year student at Koç University, School of Medicine. Reaching this point has required a significant amount of time and effort. It has been, and continues to be, an amazing journey, albeit a challenging one. Throughout my experience, I have identified several pieces of advice that I consider crucial, and I hope that sharing them might also be beneficial to you.
First of all, as trite as it may sound, try not to procrastinate. Trust me, I’ve been there, thinking I can tackle a mountain of work the night before a big exam. It doesn’t work. Medical school throws a lot at you, so it’s better to stay on top of things and stay organized. Create a study schedule that you can stick to, and break down your workload into manageable and doable parts. Consistent studying helps you really understand the material instead of just memorizing it for the test. Moreover, it saves you from those all-nighters that leave you more tired than prepared.
In medical school, it’s easy to feel like you’re always in a race with your peers. Everyone seems to be doing amazing things, and sometimes it feels like you’re lagging behind and have to catch up a lot. But here’s a truth: your journey is your own. Comparing your progress to others is a certain way to undermine your self-confidence. Instead, focus on what you have achieved. Celebrate your wins, big or small, and understand that everyone has their strengths and challenges. Medical school is not a competition; it’s a personal journey. Set your own goals and remember that reaching them at your own pace is perfectly fine. Embrace your unique path, and you’ll find more satisfaction in your accomplishments. And of course always be proud of yourself!
While studying medicine is incredibly important, it shouldn’t consume every moment of your life. It’s tempting to think that the more hours you spend in the library, the better off you’ll be. But that’s not sustainable. Don’t burn yourself out by trying to learn everything in one day. Take regular breaks, go outside, and enjoy activities that recharge you. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee with friends, going for a walk, or just taking time to relax, these moments are essential. They help you maintain a healthy balance and prevent burnout. Remember, medical school is just one part of your life. Being a well-rounded person with interests and experiences outside of school will make you a more compassionate and effective doctor.
As I continue on this path, these lessons have become invaluable. Staying organized, focusing on my own journey, and finding time to enjoy life have made my medical school experience not just bearable but genuinely rewarding. My advice to anyone following a similar path is simple: embrace the journey, learn at your pace, and don’t forget to live along the way. You’ve embarked on an incredible adventure, and I hope that with these tips in mind, you’ll be able to navigate it with more ease and joy.
Ayan Sadigova
Medicine, Senior
School of Medicine
