They say ‘ Firsts are always special ‘ …so was my first year in Anna. I was enthralled to receive my first stethoscope & white coat . After the orientation week, it was ‘ STUDY TIME’ .. so many classes to take, plenty of study materials & we had regular exams to keep us busy throughout the year. I take pride in saying that we were taught by the finest professors from some of the prestigious Indian Universities. The most important thing is that they were always available, willing to provide additional help. It was a blessing to have had such personalized attention from so many willing teachers. I cant thank them enough for all that they have provided me with. I also owe so much to the doctors of Flacq district hospital and other peripheral facilities for introducing us to clinical practice and for the free VIP pass to enter operating rooms at odd hours & witness surgeons in action.
Pursuing a career in Medicine was a dream of mine for I was always intrigued by the complex & intricate details governing human body. However, I would have never imagined that this path would lead me to Mauritius – the most romantic honeymoon destination ! It was a big move for me at the age of 18 but an opportunity to be independent. The challenge of an international medical college is not only are you starting med school but also preparing for a life in a country you know little about.
September 24, ’13 was the day I stepped into the paradise island – my home for the next 4.5 years. They brought me to a private villa with a swimming pool which was only meters away from a bustling beach. I was served Idly – sambar for my 1st breakfast ! What more does a South Indian need to feel at home !! The route to school was studded with crystal blue beaches…watta sight ! Before long, I was very comfortable with what was to come.
My fellow students in my class became some of my closest friends and the fondest memories from Mauritius are the many places I traveled to with them. The local population was very hospitable & receptive. Learning from and immersing myself in a different culture was an experience. And yessss….the yearly event i eagerly awaited for ..thanks to AMC for organizingextra academic activities. I loved indulging in music, art, dance…those intense moments of teamspirit & sportsmanship and ofcourse…picking up petty fights with the opponent team yayyyy!
The road was long and hard at times. Lucky me, I was already at the best spot to unwind ! When intense studying took a toll on me, I hit the beautiful turquoise mauritian beach to destress. But it was a sad sight to behold, having to watch newlyweds enjoying their moments of love whereas I was stuck with Bailey & Love !!
My advice to the juniors and the incoming students is to put your education first. Study smart, get help if needed, never get too caught up in the fun. Make the most out of your time as a student….this is the last time you will ever sit in a classroom. Being a foreign medical graduate does not place us at a disadvantage. It is up to us to succeed and AMC gives us the opportunity. Going to Med school in Mauritius was an amazing adventure in every sense of the word.