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How did you overcome moments when you wanted to give up, with the number of years of hard work required to become a doctor or work in the medical field,
I have always and still want to be a pediatrician or at least work with children in the medical field. I make sure to take classes and participate in activities that will further expand my passion for the future. The amount of work I put in now is only a dent compared to the overall hard work necessary to become a doctor. This makes me question if doctors have been through moments where they want to quit and if so, how did they overcome it.
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Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Hello Naa,
While I may not be a medical doctor, I am a doctoral candidate in another discipline. My educational journey, which includes five degrees and two advanced certification programs, has spanned over 15 years. (The youngsters always find it amusing when I mention that I've spent more time in college than in the K-12 public education system). If you or anyone else is feeling overwhelmed early in a long-term program, I'd encourage you to identify the root cause of your desire to quit. Is it exhaustion, a heavy course load, or perhaps the struggle to juggle work or family commitments? Are you anxious about financial issues, daunting exams, a challenging project or course, or something else entirely? By confronting these issues directly, you might find yourself celebrating small victories along the way!
One technique that worked for me was to avoid procrastination. I tackled papers and projects in manageable chunks, and if I found myself dozing off while working, I knew it was time to step back. I made it a point to include citations in my notes, because when you're poring over hundreds of research studies, the last thing you want is to have to hunt down an author's name later. I also made sure to set aside at least one day a week where I didn't let my coursework keep me from socializing or attending events. Whether it's a local parade or a shopping trip for household necessities, these breaks helped me feel connected to my home and community. Make the most of the downtime that your studies afford you. Even if you can't jet off on an extravagant holiday, simply turning off your alarm, indulging in a hobby, or reconnecting with friends can do wonders for your well-being!
While I may not be a medical doctor, I am a doctoral candidate in another discipline. My educational journey, which includes five degrees and two advanced certification programs, has spanned over 15 years. (The youngsters always find it amusing when I mention that I've spent more time in college than in the K-12 public education system). If you or anyone else is feeling overwhelmed early in a long-term program, I'd encourage you to identify the root cause of your desire to quit. Is it exhaustion, a heavy course load, or perhaps the struggle to juggle work or family commitments? Are you anxious about financial issues, daunting exams, a challenging project or course, or something else entirely? By confronting these issues directly, you might find yourself celebrating small victories along the way!
One technique that worked for me was to avoid procrastination. I tackled papers and projects in manageable chunks, and if I found myself dozing off while working, I knew it was time to step back. I made it a point to include citations in my notes, because when you're poring over hundreds of research studies, the last thing you want is to have to hunt down an author's name later. I also made sure to set aside at least one day a week where I didn't let my coursework keep me from socializing or attending events. Whether it's a local parade or a shopping trip for household necessities, these breaks helped me feel connected to my home and community. Make the most of the downtime that your studies afford you. Even if you can't jet off on an extravagant holiday, simply turning off your alarm, indulging in a hobby, or reconnecting with friends can do wonders for your well-being!
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Garrett’s Answer
It's about balance and despite the work and school challenges still taking time to enjoy the things you have always liked to do. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and sometimes taking a short break to re-adjust and refocus on why you are committed to the medical field is the best remedy.
Thank you so much, Garrett!