Feeling Lost as a Pre-Med Student
I’m not even sure where to start. Growing up, I was always labeled as the “gifted” kid. I earned recognition for my intelligence and academic achievements, graduated with over a 5.0 GPA, was salutatorian, took numerous AP and college courses, and even participated in a medical program. I believed I was on the right path toward a bright future in medicine, but now everything feels different.
My first two semesters of college have been incredibly challenging. I overloaded myself with credits, and my first semester resulted in two C’s and an academic warning. Currently, I’m struggling in my chemistry class because of a poor decision I made. I thought I could take an exam on just one hour of sleep, hoping to study ahead, but a serious family emergency sidetracked my plans, and I neglected to reach out to my professor. I know I messed up, and it feels like I’m facing a major setback.
I’m genuinely worried about my future. I attended a public high school where academic excellence wasn’t prioritized; simply getting students to graduate was the main goal. Now, I find myself in a college where many of my classmates hail from rigorous private schools, particularly in STEM, and I feel like I’m struggling to keep up. I often doubt my intelligence and feel overwhelmed, which is hard to shake off.
To complicate matters, my dad recently told me that I don’t have what it takes to become a doctor. He mentioned that if I’m struggling now, it’s only going to get tougher in the future. His words stung, and I’ve been second-guessing myself ever since. But the truth is, I’m passionate about medicine; it’s the only thing that truly inspires me, and without that dream, I feel lost.
As a first-year student, I’m feeling disoriented and frustrated. My grades are not where I want them to be, and I’m uncertain about my next steps. I could really use some advice or reassurance. Has anyone else experienced this? Is there hope for someone like me who feels like they’re falling behind?
First of all, I want to acknowledge how difficult and overwhelming this situation must feel for you right now. Transitioning to college can be a huge challenge, especially for someone who has excelled in a different environment. It’s completely normal to feel lost and uncertain when faced with new pressures, and it doesn’t make you any less intelligent or capable.
It’s important to remember that academic setbacks can happen to anyone—not just to those who struggle in school but even to the high achievers like you. You’ve faced a lot of external challenges that can impact your performance, like the family emergency you mentioned. Recognizing and accepting this is the first step towards moving forward.
Here are a few thoughts and suggestions for you to consider:
Talk to Your Professors: It may feel intimidating, but reaching out to your professors can be incredibly helpful. They often appreciate students who show initiative and are willing to seek help. Explain your situation, and they may provide guidance on how to improve your understanding of the material or even options for remedies.
Utilize Campus Resources: Most colleges have tutoring centers, counseling services, and academic advisors. These resources are there for students who are struggling, and they can help you develop better study habits, time management skills, and coping strategies.
Adjust Your Course Load: If you’ve taken on too many credits, consider whether it would be beneficial to drop a course or reduce your schedule for the next semester. It’s okay to prioritize your mental health and to ensure you can perform well in the courses that truly matter.
Stay Connected with Supportive People: Seek out friends, family, or mentors who encourage you and believe in your potential. Hearing positive feedback can help counter the negativity from those who doubt you.
Reflect on Your Passion: You mentioned that medicine excites you. Hold on to that passion as it can be your motivation to push through difficult times. Consider volunteering, shadowing a physician, or joining a pre-med organization on campus. Engaging with the field can reaffirm your commitment and help you reconnect with your aspirations.
Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Many successful professionals have faced setbacks and failures—what’s important is how you respond. Instead of viewing this moment as a reflection of your intelligence or future capacity, consider it a part of your learning journey.
Remember, it’s always possible to recover from setbacks and find your footing again. Your dream of going into medicine is still very much alive, and taking one step at a time can help guide you back to where you want to be. You’re not alone in feeling this way—many others have been where you are, and with time and perseverance, you can get through this. Reach out for support, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it. You’ve got this!