Alright, now that the excitement has subsided, the panic has set in. I have no idea what I’ve gotten myself into and at first glance at each class syllabus, I’m in for a busy 4 years. Starting medical school is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. The first week can set the tone for the rest of your journey, so I’d like to be well-prepared.

Here are some tips I’ve gathered to make my first week a breeze…or at least something less than a hurricane.

Getting Organized

Before classes begin, I have taken time to organize the materials we have been given thus far. This has included textbooks, notebooks, online resources, and downloaded materials passed down from the second-year classmates. From these materials, I plan to create goals, develop a study schedule, and manage my time effectively.

Familiarizing Myself with the Curriculum

I have reviewed the syllabus for each course to briefly understand the expectations and requirements. Obviously, each plan and study schedule I make will likely need to change at some point but I feel that I can at least review the course structure, key topics, and important dates to help get me started, stay on top of due dates and exams, and remain flexible.

Connecting with Classmates

Building a support network is crucial in medical school. I plan to take the initiative to introduce myself, attend social events with classmates, and eventually form study groups. Collaborating with peers can provide valuable insights and make the learning process more enjoyable – which is exactly what I’ll need!

Familiarizing Myself with Campus Resources

If needed, I’d like to be able to take advantage of the resources available on campus, such as libraries, study spaces, and academic support centers. These resources can provide additional support and enhance the learning experience. Even being able to study at a coffee shop near school or home for a change in scenery would be helpful and familiarizing myself with these places before needing them will be helpful.

Establishing a Routine

I’m told that developing a consistent routine can help manage the demands of medical school, allow for flexibility, and ability to incorporate time for all the demands including self-care. A balanced routine can prevent burnout and promote overall well-being and help reach your individual goals. That said, a book I’m reading has helped me shift my mindset into developing a personal routine as well as a study routine to promote more time off and more efficient study sessions. More on that later.

Stay Positive and Flexible

Medical school can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude and being adaptable can make a significant difference. My goal is to embrace the process, be open to new experiences, maintain my effort, and continue to develop my growth mindset.

As I’m preparing for the first week of medical school, utilizing skills such as organization, connecting with peers, and using a positive mindset will help me create a strong foundation that allows flexibility when needed.

I’ll let you know how these tips work out for me. Remember, this is just the beginning, and with the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful medical doctor.

Stay sane friends!

XO Melmo