University
Kharkiv National Medical University

Current Year
Second

Medical Specialty Interested in
Gynecology or Sports Medicine

Most Inspiring Person
Ellen DeGeneres

Single Quality that defines a great Doctor
Compassion

First of all, walk us through the step-by-step processes that you went through to get to where you are today?

I wanted to get into medical school right after my O’levels. I knew back then pre-medicine was an option, but at that time doing A-levels was the norm if you wanted to study medicine. I finished my O-levels in Hiriya school and joined Villa International High School for my A-Levels. 

I was looking into options and at the time I went for my Pre-medicine, they didn’t offer any loan schemes in the country. Hence, I wanted something affordable and also good at the same time, so I found out about this university in Ukraine through a friend. 

I worked in ADK hospital as a clinical assistant for 2 years and also worked in Ooredoo to help plan a 1-month survey. Even after working in ADK, I got 6 months before I left for Ukraine, and during that time I worked in the Health Ministry. I helped conduct Maldives Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS), which is an international survey managed every 4 years throughout the Maldives. I got to travel a lot and it was very educational, in the sense that I saw the comparison of medical & general knowledge between people living in Male’ and the Islands.

When did you first realize you wanted to study medicine?

My brother was supposed to study medicine but he ended up doing Law. So, it was my family’s wish for me to pursue the career. They never pressured me though. At the time, I didn’t have any specific career goals and didn’t particularly wanted to study medicine either. However, I then went to work in ADK, and it was there I knew that I definitely wanted to do this. The experience was amazing, I learned a lot and I was even inspired my Greys Anatomy, the television series. 

Take us through a typical study day.

I wake-up at 7:45 am and go to class at 9 am. We have 2-hour classes and normally finish around 3 pm. I would come home, eat something and study subjects for next day’s classes. I don’t have a specific fixed time for studying, I finish everything I have to and get on with my day. Sometimes it takes 2 or 3 hours. I watch a few series before I go to sleep. I try to sleep before 1 am.

How do you stay motivated to study?

Always remember that in the end it’s going to be worth it. Since I was in ADK, I got to experience the aftermath of med school, even if it was just 1%. So, I always try to remember that med school is just the foundation, it’s going to be harder later on.

What are some of your favorite online resources/tools?

Dr. Najeeb’s videos mainly. I use google to help me with my assignments as well. At the moment, the university provides us with enough material for our class exams and modules.

Name your favorite medical text book.

Frank H. Netter, Atlas of Human Anatomy

Why do you think becoming a doctor is important?

For me, I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. This is what I have wanted to do for the longest time. Also, it is important to me because this is something my father really wanted for me. I want to do this not only for myself but for my dad too. Because I said this, some people might think I’m pursuing medicine because my parents told me to; it’s not that. I’m doing it because I want to and also because it is the wish of my father. I’m doing it for the both of us.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started medical school?

To be more independent. Don’t rely on anyone when you go study abroad, because you will get disappointed in the end. Also, be proactive; learn everything you need to do and don’t expect anyone do them for you. 

When I first went to Ukraine, I didn’t know how to do anything but I learnt. In the process I saw many struggling as well. I realized that it was your own effort that matters, no one else will help you. Always be keen to learn, both in and out of school. 

I grew up with 3 brothers so I had them and my father to help me do everything. When I went abroad to live on my own it was a shock and I had to adjust quickly. So, be mentally strong as well. You will get homesick and particularly in countries like Russia and Ukraine, you can’t come home to Maldives that easily. Think of the worst and be prepared for it!

What do you think needs to change in the health industry of the Maldives today?

Firstly, the Maldives Medical and Dental Council (MMDC) is biased towards some universities. I have had first hand experience where some council members have said students from a specific university does not have confidence after they come back after their studies. However, in the end, the government burdens us with the study-loan to these universities that they mention. So, the council members should not say this towards any student.

Furthermore, in my opinion it is important to educate people about sex. I want the Health Ministry to spread sex education more. I have seen during my trips to the islands as part of the survey-team, that many older women do not have any information. As a result, there are many unwanted pregnancies and during my time in ADK, I noticed that people who have contracted sexually transmitted diseases like Herpes is common. I am not encouraging sex. I think to avoid something you first need to get educated about it.

Next, I want health facilities to be more readily accessible in the islands, even though it is difficult since we are scattered. Also, even though Aasandha is available the cost of health facilities is expensive compared to the average income of a Maldivian family. Moreover, for example in my Island of Thinadhoo, Aasandha is available, however, a dentist is not, hence, we have to come to Male’ and then pay for stay and other services.

Finally, in the hospitals the management needs to improve. For example, IGMH needs to be broader in scale. Everyone goes to IGMH and their services need to be better. My aunt works in IGMH as a nurse and I hear stories from others too. I know it’s easier said than done. However, the two most important things that contribute to a country’s development is Health and Education. I feel like these two are most lacking in our country though. Without Health there is no Wealth.

Finally, what is the one tip/advice you want to give to our readers?

Firstly, don’t pursue medicine for your parents. Do it for yourself. 

Secondly, always be prepared for what is coming to you. It’s not easy being a medicine student and it will be harder after medical school. Don’t lose your motivation. You will get the fruits of your hard work later on.

The My Medical Student Life series was created for the sole purpose of helping medical students and aspiring doctors on their journey to become a successful Maldivian Healthcare Professional. Have a suggestion, idea or question? Email us.

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