Beyond The Norm: Medical Students with Previous University Experience
This feature highlights medical students with diverse university backgrounds as they share their unique journeys into the world of medicine and discuss their journeys thus far.
Hey, there! Today’s feature is dedicated to first-year students with previous university experience, but we firmly believe that the stories shared hold value for everyone within our community. This topic is close to our hearts as co-editors of the newsletter because we both started medical school after completing our postgraduate degrees. We wish we had something like this when we were in our first year and we hope you find it useful and encouraging.
While the excitement of studying medicine is palpable, the first few months of being a first-year student again can be challenging. It is easy to feel isolated in your unique journey, but we want to remind you that you are not alone. Many students have traveled a similar path, and we are here to share their stories with you.
Prudence Silinda
Year of study in 2024: 2nd year.
Started medical school at age: 21.
My best study jam: Another in the Fire by Hillsong.
Prior to medical school, I completed a: BSc in Human Genetics
Why did you decide to pursue medicine? 🩸💉
I decided to pursue medicine because it was a childhood dream. As a kid, I admired doctors and wanted to be like them. In high school, my motivation shifted because of my academic success - I knew that I could do more, but after completing my BSc, I realized my heart was not in it. Medicine remained a constant passion, and once I began my studies, I fell in love with the field. Seeing patients' hopeful faces in the hospital queues reminds me that I want to make a difference in people's lives, and that's what drives me to complete this degree. If I had to make the decision again, I would choose to pursue medicine without hesitation. Despite the current uncertainties in the field, I'm passionate about this career and excited to serve patients.
What were your biggest fears when you made the decision to study again?
My biggest fears when I decided to study medicine were turning down a job offer and potentially regretting my decision. I worried that the university would withdraw my offer, leaving me without a job or a place in the program. I was also concerned about funding, as it's challenging to secure funding with a pre-existing degree. However, God worked everything out for the best.
What has been the best part about medicine so far? 🩺😄
The best part of studying medicine so far is the constant reminder that I'm pursuing my dream. Wearing scrubs, practicing OSCEs, and passing through the hospital daily fills me with joy and a sense of purpose. I feel at home on the Prinshof campus, unlike Hatfield, and I'm grateful that I feel a sense of belonging here.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
The biggest challenge I've faced is the intense workload of the second-year block, which demands strong time management and discipline.
Would you make the decision to pursue medicine again?
Yes Yes, I don’t regret at all. Even with the current uncertainties about our field, I am happy to be doing something I am passionate about and a career I wouldn’t mind settling into till I have grey hair. I cant explain the feeling I have about this course, but like I said earlier, passing through the hospital everyday and seeing the patients fills me with warmth and I can’t wait to serve.
What advice do you have for someone with prior university experience in their 1st year? 💡
Do not worry! You belong here just as much as anyone else. Remember, six years from now, you'll be the same age regardless, but with an MBCHB degree. Keep your 'why' in mind when faced with challenges.
Rachel Dwyer
Year of study in 2024: 2nd year.
Started medical school at age: 24.
My best study jam: Something relaxed like lo-fi playlists or classical music.
Prior to medical school, I completed a: Bachelor’s Degree in Diagnostic Radiography.
Why did you decide to pursue medicine? 🩸💉
From the first year in my diagnostic radiography degree, we had integrated learning where lectures alternated with working in a hospital for practical experience. The moment that made me pursue medicine was in first year, when I attended an orthopedic surgery for the first time. After witnessing the surgeon at work, it ignited a profound love for surgery and medicine. From that point onwards, I have been dedicated to pursuing a medical degree and becoming a doctor. Another aspect that attracted me to medicine was that there are endless opportunities for learning. The journey for learning, discovering and understanding new knowledge is a lifelong pursuit. I have always had a genuine desire in helping others in a compassionate and caring manner and medicine will afford me that opportunity to positively impact the lives of others.
What were your biggest fears when you made the decision to study again?
Being older than the students that had just matriculated was a big fear of mine, as well as if I had the capacity to excel academically. There was also a part of me that compared my life to my friends of similar age and made me wonder about the possible opportunities that I would miss in terms of travelling, relationships and family life. Ultimately the decision to study medicine trumped all those concerns and I do not regret it. To my pleasant surprise, I have found that those opportunities still exist.
What has been the best part about medicine so far? 🩺😄
There’s so many! Not only have I had the privilege of meeting remarkably intelligent and captivating people but the work content itself is intriguing. I have a profound passion for broadening my understanding of the intricacies of the human body. Among the countless standout moments, the community visits definitely hold a special place in my heart. It was a surreal experience that allowed me to interact directly with communities – an experience I would have never had without studying this degree. Witnessing the healthcare workers make such a significant impact in the communities was profoundly inspiring and truly solidified my dedication to pursuing a career as a doctor.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
The biggest challenge so far was the first semester of first year. I had last done physics in high school, so having to reacquaint myself with that work was challenging. Despite the challenge – I preserved and did all I could to make sure I passed.
Would you make the decision to pursue medicine again?
Yes definitely. It has been such an honor to be accepted into medicine. I never thought I would have the opportunity to study medicine, and I would do it again in a heartbeat (no pun intended).
What advice do you have for someone with prior university experience in their 1st year? 💡
Use having prior university experience to your advantage, it is beneficial to have an understanding of how you prefer to approach studying and assignments. Each journey is a new and exciting one – remember to remain enthusiastic and motivated, ultimately if this is your dream it should naturally drive you to work hard and enjoy the experience.
Thakgatso Nkoana
Year of study in 2024: 2nd year.
Started medical school at age: 22.
My best study jam: Anything by Piano Novel.
Prior to medical school, I studied a: BSc in Chemistry and Mathematics.
Why did you decide to pursue medicine? 🩸💉
There is a long and personal backstory to this, but I will try to summarize it briefly. Despite struggling with science subjects in primary and high school (I attended every extra help class!), I have always had a deep passion for science. The Lord instilled in me a desire to pursue a career that combines science and healthcare; to work collaboratively with a team to make a positive impact on people’s lives and serve communities. I don’t know any other career path that could fulfill this passion except for medicine.
What were your biggest fears when you made the decision to study medicine?
I was in my second year of studies, transitioning to third year, when I was blessed with an acceptance letter. However, I felt apprehensive about leaving a degree program I was excelling (maintaining an average above 75%) for a more challenging one, and the prospect of struggling in it.
What has been the best part about medicine so far? 🩺😄
The best part of studying medicine has been the joy of LEARNING, and I also cherish being part of the class of 2028!
Would you make the decision to pursue medicine again?
Always!
What advice do you have for someone with prior university experience in their 1st year? 💡
Be humble, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and be open to learning. You will need to surround yourself with a supportive group of peers who can study together and help one another through the challenges of the degree. And most importantly, do not forget to enjoy the journey!
As we conclude this special feature, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our contributors for sharing their personal journeys with us. We hope that this feature has been encouraging to first-year medical students with prior university experience, reminding you that you are not alone in your journey!