MS-1: Asocial, unsure of my competency to continue!!

[magini1111]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hello,

I never thought this would every happen to me. But as MS-1 i have just found out so many of my personal limitations during first 5 weeks. Please read on and reply.

During science lectures I doing good in understanding (memorizing) the lectures (received avg score on first exam), but I am not easily able to apply the lecture information to small group sessions. I am usually the quite one in the group sessions; not being able to maintain the reciprocating discussion involved in problem-solving. It realized it takes me a bit longer than most of understand a case, and my reasoning speed hasn't been at par with them. When I am expected to talk in front of the group I studder alot, and get extremely anxious and nervous. Also, I would read before the small group session but still not contribute much due to self-doubt and inability to completely integrate different sides of understanding a case.

Other students have very proactice in getting involved with various activities, whereas I would be happy to complete and pass the bare-minimum.

Also, recently after studying late, I had a seizure laying in the bed just before I had fallen asleep. I had seizures twice in past 1-2 weeks. So now I make sure I dont study late so havent had any seizure. In med school I havent been social, I have dont go out to lunch with students, and never stay after school to unwind with students. I have realized i have been very awkward at times, so just avoid most students, except a few who are of my temperament, and understanding.


I have been very concerned about my health and general competency in medical school, and whether if I should continue medical school?

I would like to know if other students felt like me, and/or have had similar problems during medical school. Has any one been diagnosed with any type of disability, and if yes if you are doing okay?

Thanks alot for your help!!

 

[peripherin]

In general, medical students are less social and more socially awkward than the average US population. You will find your niche, but it may take a while. When you are memorizing information, instead of repeating the info in your head, try practicing out loud and on the board (find an empty classroom). You'll know what to say in small group discussions and it will also give you more confidence.

Given the situation with your health, you should talk to your dean/advisor, they are better able to help you than random people on an anonymous forum.

 

[Zoom-Zoom]

OP, it's totally OK to be less social than others. Some people just don't want or need as much social interaction. Some people are energized by others, and some people are exhausted by them. Do you.

When you describe your SG sessions it sounds like social anxiety. It may be that you would benefit from a prescription, or it could be that you just need to psych yourself up a little. Self-doubt is a killer on exams. Anxiety is essentially useless when you're actually sitting there taking the test. So figure out what exactly you're nervous about. Public speaking can be more nerve wracking in small groups like that, whereas in a big lecture you pretty much just go up on stage and orate. Is there a way you can prepare for the discussions ahead of time, content-wise? Like researching the disease process or something? My school doesn't have much PBL until second year, and I can imagine it'd be difficult to really understand pathology until you've had more basic science.

Seizures are more worrisome. They can be totally benign but you should see a psychiatrist or neurologist. They need to go bye-bye so as not to affect your health and learning.

Definitely continue med school. It can be a stressful and lonely experience, especially if you study by yourself and aren't as social. But everyone is going through the same stuff. Stay positive and focus on what you enjoy. If you're doing well on exams I have no doubt you'll be a good student.

 

[djmcheme]

What do u mean your having seizures? Are these panic attacks or Grand mal? Your english is not so good so I wonder if something is getting lost in translation here?

 

[jdh71]

I don't know if this counts as "medical advice", but seizures need a physician eval my friend, and sooner rather than later - like go see your student health people tomorrow.

 

[C5toC9]

Check out your friendly local Student Health about your seizures and anxiety issues, bro.

 

[VenusinFurs]

Dude, I know this is like the fifth repetition, but get medical attention for the seizures IMMEDIATELY.

As for not being able to think in small group discussion, you're only five weeks in. You don't know nearly enough to begin integrating all those disparate bits of knowledge.

 

[julianmarble]

I do agree with you venus because it need to do an action for medication. You have to get medical attention for the seizures as soon as possible.