Navigating AFMC's First Year: A Journey of Adaptation and Discovery

Starting medical school is a journey filled with both confusion and wonder. In my first year at AFMC (Acharya Farooq Medical College), I have experienced the highs and lows, the fascinating and the taxing. This article will explore the key aspects of my first year at AFMC, offering insights into the challenges, achievements, and camaraderie that shape this incredible educational experience.

Challenges and Fascinations

Moving into the realm of medicine is a complex and demanding task. While the subject matter is both challenging and fascinating, understanding the intricacies of the human body can be overwhelming. Anatomy classes, for instance, can be fast-paced, leaving one to wonder what was just learned. Despite this, I find myself constantly in awe of the human body's design and complexity. However, the memory retention can be equally frustrating. It's a constant battle to keep knowledge fresh and accessible.

Classroom Dynamics and Support

Despite these challenges, the supportive environment of AFMC plays a crucial role in my success. My classmates are incredibly friendly and supportive, making it easier to tackle complex subjects with a group. We share the excitement of learning and often find new ways to make studying enjoyable. The joy of these moments is compounded by the beautiful anatomy labs, where we get to see and touch the internal structures of the body. However, knowing Kannada still poses a challenge, as it is essential for many interactions, but there are efforts to improve language proficiency.

Hands-On Learning and Practical Sessions

Physiotherapy labs stand out as the pinnacle of my first-year experience. These sessions are not only practical but make me feel like a real doctor. Performing tasks such as measuring blood pressure, auscultation, and pulse-taking gives me a sense of purpose and optimism for my future in medicine. Biochemistry, while slightly more boring, is made bearable by the dedication of our faculty, who continually engage us and keep the subject matter interesting.

Social Life in AFMC

Beyond the academic rigors, the social life at AFMC is rich and diverse. Raggings, early morning lectures, and late-night study sessions bring us together and create lifelong memories. Our class dynamics are further strengthened by the bond we form with our seniors, who provide guidance and support. Celebrating moments such as our 19th birthday with a physio prac and throwing a hostel party for our seniors highlights the importance of camaraderie and celebration in medical school.

Pressure and Relaxation

The first year of medical school is undoubtedly stressful. Long hours in the classroom and lab, coupled with the pressure to keep up with the curriculum, can be daunting. However, AFMC encourages students to take time to relax and destress, emphasizing that the pace will only increase in following years. As a result, we find balance in going out to enjoy ourselves, knowing that medical school is not just about the lectures and exams. The more we learn, the more we appreciate the complexity and beauty of the human body.

Conclusion

The first year at AFMC is a mixture of challenges, growth, and camaraderie. While the journey is far from perfect, the learning experience at AFMC is invaluable. From the complex theories of anatomy to the joy of hands-on practicals, every aspect of the experience contributes to a richer understanding of medicine. This journey of adaptation and discovery is shaping me into the future healthcare provider I strive to become.

Attachments

Attaching some pictures from our physio prac celebration and hostelry party for our seniors.

Also, follow me on another_medico for regular updates on my MBBS journey.