Yara Abussaud
More Than Just Lectures: A Day in My Life at RCSI Bahrain
Before starting my medical school journey, I would have thought my day would be spent buried in textbooks and in the library. The reality is very different. Despite medicine being one of the most demanding disciplines, my days at RCSI Bahrain are a mix of lectures, friendships, gym sessions, and of course good food. Balance is integral in medical school, otherwise burnout is REAL.Most mornings start early with rotations or a little later with lectures depending on my timetable. On rotation days, I head straight to the hospital after a quick breakfast. On lecture days, I have a slower morning before heading to university. Something I quickly learned in RCSI Bahrain is that consistency is far more integral than cramming or studying 24/7. Consistency looks different for everyone; some like to study a lot in the week so their weekends are free, others like to spread out their studying. At first I was pretty overwhelmed by the amount of work and lectures, but breaking it down to manageable parts makes a huge difference. It allows you to create balance for yourself.
Afternoons are my favorite time to unwind, especially after rotations. Most days an afternoon nap is my go-to! I love to prepare a meal and take some time to reflect on some of the new concepts I witnessed that day. I like to take this time a bit slower and relax after a long morning.
In the evenings, you would find me having gym sessions, socializing, or studying in one of Bahrain's many cafes. Depending on the season, some days have less studying than others. Even in exam season, I always attempt to find time to gym, socialize, and eat well. I am a firm believer that no matter how busy life can get, you should always take care of yourself and do what makes you happy. It gives you a drive and motivation to study and do your best. Most importantly, you will also be extremely happy.
I think many students also forget that medical school isn't only about academics. In RCSI Bahrain I appreciate the strong sense of community among the students. Whether it's grabbing coffee between classes, attending university events, or joining one of the student clubs. Additionally, branching out beyond the scope of university activities is important. There are constantly many events, concerts, and activities to do all over Bahrain. These are all ways to build a healthy support system and have a good balance between academics and happiness.
Medical school is challenging, and there are definitely days when it feels overwhelming. In exam season it can feel never-ending and draining. However, finding your own perfect balance is crucial with a good support system. It may not come to you easily, but when you work hard and prioritize your own wellbeing, everything will eventually fall into place. Looking back, that's what makes studying medicine at RCSI Bahrain such a rewarding experience.