As a medical student, Robert Sithole shares his view of positive influences in life and learning.
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When I first stepped into medical school, the overwhelming feeling of being a small fish in a vast ocean was very real. The journey ahead seemed daunting with complex subjects, long hours of study, and the pressure of upcoming exams. However, what I quickly realised was that navigating this journey wasn't something I had to do alone. The importance of having a mentor and being part of supportive circles became abundantly clear to me.
Having a mentor in medical school is like having a compass in unfamiliar terrain. My mentor, Dr. Biyela, was a senior doctor who had walked the path I was now embarking on. He shared his experiences, offered guidance on balancing academics and personal life, and provided invaluable advice on clinical rotations and specialty choices. But more than that, he believed in me when I doubted myself and encouraged me to push beyond my limits.
Being part of supportive circles means surrounding yourself with positive, motivated, and like-minded individuals. These are the people who challenge you to be better, support you during tough times, and celebrate your successes with you. In medical school, these circles included my classmates, seniors, and friends who shared the same passion for medicine and were striving toward similar goals.
During my second year, I faced a period of self-doubt and struggled with maintaining a positive mindset amidst the heavy workload. It was during this time that my friend, Ikaneng, and my seniors played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective.
Ikaneng, with his unwavering optimism and determination, became my study buddy. We tackled difficult subjects together, shared study techniques, and motivated each other during late-night study sessions. His positivity was infectious, and slowly but surely, I began to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
The seniors also had a significant impact on me. They shared their own stories of overcoming academic hurdles and developing a strong work ethic. They emphasised the importance of consistency, discipline, and resilience. Inspired by their stories, I adopted a structured study routine, prioritised self-care, and learned to manage my time more effectively.
As the end of the year approached, all the hard work began to pay off. With the support of my mentor, friends, and seniors, I maintained a positive mindset and a strong work ethic that led to remarkable results in my exams. I achieved 6 distinctions out of 7, a testament to what can be accomplished with the right guidance and support.
Medical school is a challenging yet rewarding journey. While the academic rigour and clinical experiences are crucial, the role of mentorship and being part of supportive circles should not be underestimated. They provide the support, guidance, and encouragement needed to navigate the ups and downs of medical school successfully.
As I continue on this journey towards becoming a doctor, I am grateful for the mentorship I have received and the positive influences that have shaped me. I am committed to paying it forward by being a mentor to others and creating a supportive environment where we can all thrive and succeed together.
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