Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Medical School

Hello! I’m Lina Abdelsalam, a second-year medical student at the University of Sheffield.

I grew up in Saudi Arabia but I am originally from Egypt, and I came to the UK to study medicine in 2023 after taking a gap year. Having to say goodbye to my friends and family especially after spending an extra year at home made the transition to university life very difficult. Starting medical school in general is an exciting and transformative experience, but it's also a journey filled with unexpected challenges, particularly for international students who have the extra task of adapting to a new environment. As I look back, there are many things I wish I'd known before stepping into that first lecture hall—things that would have made the transition smoother, the stress more manageable, and the overall experience more fulfilling. From navigating the expectations I set for myself to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, here are some insights I wish someone had shared with me before I embarked on this journey.

It is okay to figure things out as you go along

You don’t need to have everything figured out when you enter medical school. It’s perfectly fine if you’re unsure about which specialty you’ll pursue, whether you’ll intercalate, or where you’ll complete your training. While some students may have a clear plan from day one, don’t let that intimidate you. Your journey will evolve, and your interests may shift as you progress through medical school. Even if you have a plan in mind that changes along the way, there’s no need to worry. Medical school is a long and transformative experience, and your priorities will likely develop as you gain more exposure. Embrace the privilege of studying medicine and enjoy the journey without stressing over details that will fall into place over time.

Don’t compare yourself to others

One of the biggest lessons I learned early on was to stop comparing myself to my peers. Coming from a background of academic success, I found it difficult to adjust to being among so many equally accomplished students. I often questioned my abilities, especially when others seemed ahead in their studies. This sense of comparison created unnecessary stress, hindering my personal growth and making it harder to figure out what revision techniques worked for me. In hindsight, I wish I had focused more on discovering my study methods rather than trying to match the pace of others. Remember, everyone in medical school deserves to be there, including you! Take pride in your accomplishments and trust that your path is uniquely yours.

Your revision technique may change

When it comes to studying, you might find yourself experimenting with different revision techniques. The way you’re taught and assessed in medical school can be very different from what you were used to in the past. Don’t be discouraged if the strategies that worked for you before don’t seem as effective now. Use the first year to explore various methods, whether it’s flashcards, active recall, or a new note-taking system. It’s also worth trying to study in different environments to keep things fresh. Remember, what works for your peers may not work for you, and that’s okay. The important thing is to find a study routine that is sustainable and enjoyable.

Do not feel overwhelmed by the volume of content

One of the most daunting aspects of medical school is the sheer volume of content, especially from the first year. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but learning how to prioritize your studies will make all the difference. You won’t be able to memorize every detail, and you don’t have to. Focus on building a broad understanding of key concepts, rather than trying to master everything in minute detail. As your medical career progresses, you’ll have the chance to dive deeper into the areas that truly interest you. For now, concentrate on developing a solid foundation across a wide range of topics.

Join medical and non-medical societies

The first year of medical school is the perfect time to explore new hobbies and interests. Many medical schools have their societies, some of which are specialty-focused. These provide a great opportunity to learn about different fields of medicine before clinical placements and to connect with students from other year groups. Medical societies also hold regular revision sessions, which could be beneficial to attend before exams. However, you don’t have to limit yourself to medicine-related societies. It’s important to have an activity outside of medicine that helps you unwind, so consider joining a group that aligns with a hobby or passion you enjoy, or explore other societies you think could be fun!

You do not need to study every day

At first glance, with the heavy workload, countless lectures, seminars, and tutorials, it may seem like the best thing to do after a long day at university is to dive straight back into more work. While reviewing material on the same day is often recommended, it isn’t always practical. After an exhausting day, taking time to rest and recharge is essential. Allow yourself to recuperate so that you can approach your revision with renewed energy and focus. Make time for the things you love and create a support system for yourself. Fellow medics who understand the pressures of medical school can be an incredible source of comfort, as they’re going through the same challenges. But don’t forget to stay connected with friends and family from back home, as they provide a different kind of support that can be equally valuable.

Throughout medical school, you’ll learn to appreciate the importance of rest and the strength of your body. Listen to it, and remember that taking care of your mental and physical health is just as important as hitting the books.

Good luck on your medical school journey!