When I first stepped into medical school, I thought I was ready. I had worked so hard to get in, right? But the reality hit me FAST and HARD. 😩
University life was overwhelming. Balancing lectures, studying, making friends, and managing stress felt like an impossible juggling act. 🎭 It seemed like everyone else had it together while I was just… floating.
What made it worse? I had NO mentor. No one to guide me or offer advice. I was basically just vibing through med school, and trust me—that is NOT the way to go. 🚨
💡 Then I Noticed Something…
The people who seemed to be in control weren’t necessarily the smartest. They had guidance. They had mentors—older students, doctors, or friends—who had been there before and could help navigate the chaos. That’s when it hit me:
🔥 The Importance of Mentorship in Medical School
Having a mentor is not just helpful—it’s ESSENTIAL. Here’s what I wish I had known from the start:
✅ Find someone who has been through what you’re going through. They don’t have to be a professor—just someone a few steps ahead. 🏆
✅ Ask questions—LOTS of them. Don’t assume you’ll figure everything out on your own. It saves time, stress, and sleepless nights. 😵💫
✅ Plan INTENTIONALLY. I struggled because I had no plan. Those doing well had a study structure, knew when to rest, and had strategies to handle med school effectively. 📅🎯
🎯 When I Finally Found a Mentor… Everything Changed
I still had to put in the work, but at least I wasn’t guessing my way through everything anymore. My stress levels dropped, my study habits improved, and I started feeling like I actually belonged in med school.
🚀 How to Find a Mentor in Medical School
If you’re in your first year, here’s my BIGGEST advice: Get yourself a mentor.
👨⚕️ Join Formal Programs – Many medical schools have mentorship programs connecting juniors with seniors or faculty. Use them! 🏛️
🤝 Network & Be Proactive – If there’s no formal system, seek out older students, attend events, and engage with faculty. Never be afraid to ask for guidance.
🌍 Use Online Resources – Websites like EduMed provide mentorship tips and platforms to connect with experienced medical professionals. (Check out this resource: edumed.org)
🌟 Final Reflections
Navigating medical school without guidance was brutal. The importance of mentorship in medical school cannot be overstated. It provides support, guidance, and a sense of community. So, take the initiative to find a mentor or become one. You never know whose life you might change. 💙
💬 What’s one thing you wish you had known when you started university? Drop it below! ⬇️🔥
✍️Written By: Edna Oppong, 6th Year, KNUST School of Medical Sciences
Posted By: Dr Richeal Shola Makinde, UCC School of Medical Sciences Alumni, LinkedIn profile
