Navigating Medical School with Memory Challenges

Can you pursue a career in medicine if you struggle with memory and focus? The answer is yes, and this journey is not only possible but also rewarding. My father often said, 'there is nothing in the world you cannot do if you put your heart and soul to it'. Work hard and work harder. If you read my book called 'A Girl Called Dolly' by Shobha Srivastava, you can see how this girl overcame all the odds.

Improving Your Memory: Practice Makes Perfect

Memory is like a muscle that can be trained. Consistent practice can lead to significant improvements. The old Hindi adage says, 'Karat karat abhyas se jadmati hoot SUJAN. Rasri aavat javat sil par padat nishan.' (By constant practice, a fool can become wise and knowledgeable, just like a soft rope leaves its mark on the stone boundary of a well.)

In my experience, most people who clear the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) medical college entrance examination in India and go on to study medicine have average memories. What sets them apart is their dedication and the constant hard work in the form of repetition. Completing a syllabus once is not enough; few can constantly revise it.

Overcoming Memory Concerns

Instead of being bothered about having a 'poor memory', you should focus on clearing the ultra-competitive NEET exam and achieving a top 99th percentile in any test series you are using for preparation. If you can clear the NEET, trust me when I say that your memory is sufficient.

People who complain about having a poor memory are either forgetful, careless, or haven’t figured out what study style suits them. Both of these issues can be easily remedied. The key is to identify your weak points and work on them systematically.

Is Medicine Out of Reach?

Assuming your memory falls within the average range, improved memory can be learned. Rest assured, no doctor remembers everything. And no doctor even learns everything. We tend to remember what we're truly interested in.

Evaluating Yourself Honestly

Are you evaluating yourself honestly? Take a moment to assess your current situation and identify areas where you can improve. Focus on systematic and consistent practice, and you will see positive results over time.

Remember, determination, hard work, and a growth mindset are key to overcoming any obstacle. With the right strategies and support, pursuing a career in medicine with memory challenges is entirely possible.