Imagine the pressure of medical school—the endless hours of studying, the constant exams, and the feeling that there’s always more to learn. It’s a journey that can feel overwhelming, but it’s also one filled with opportunity. At Saint James School of Medicine, students are no strangers to this challenge. Fortunately, there are strategies that can make this journey not only manageable but successful. Dr. Shaan Patel, a board-certified dermatologist and successful entrepreneur, knows this journey all too well. He’s walked the path from medical student to physician, and now he’s sharing his insights to help you navigate your own path with confidence and balance.
The Seven Perspectives Method: Expanding Your Study Horizons
One of the standout strategies Dr. Patel advocates for is the “Seven Perspectives Method.” But what exactly does this mean, and why is it so effective? Let’s break it down.
The core idea behind the Seven Perspectives Method is simple: don’t rely on just one source of information when studying. For example, when you’re diving into a complex topic like cardiology, it’s easy to stick to your lecture notes and call it a day. However, this approach limits your understanding to just one perspective. Instead, Dr. Patel recommends broadening your study sources to at least seven different ones. These could include your class slides, textbooks, online resources like UWorld, videos, podcasts, and even discussions with peers.
Let’s say you’re trying to master the intricacies of heart murmurs. Start with your lecture notes, but then read about it in a comprehensive textbook like “Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine.” Follow up with a concise review in a study guide like “First Aid for the USMLE.” Watch a YouTube video that visually explains the heart sounds associated with different murmurs. Listen to a podcast where a cardiologist discusses real-life cases. Practice questions on UWorld to test your knowledge. Finally, discuss the topic with a study group to see how others understand it.
By approaching the material from these seven perspectives, you’re not just memorizing facts—you’re building a deeper, more robust understanding. This method was a game-changer for Dr. Patel, helping him achieve over a 260 on the USMLE Step 2, a score that opened doors to competitive residencies. For SJSM students, adopting this approach could make a significant difference in both your exam performance and long-term retention of material.
Making the Most of Medical School: The Work-Life Balance Equation
Medical school is often described as a grind, and for good reason. The demands on your time and energy are intense, and it’s easy to feel like you have to sacrifice everything else in your life to succeed. But Dr. Patel emphasizes that balance is not just possible—it’s essential.
He suggests that even at the peak of your studies, you should carve out time for activities that rejuvenate you. Maybe it’s playing basketball, catching up with friends over dinner, or simply spending a few hours each week on a hobby you love. These breaks are not just distractions; they’re vital for maintaining your mental health and preventing burnout.
Dr. Patel’s personal story is a testament to this. While excelling in his studies, he also made time for sports like volleyball, which helped him stay grounded. This balance didn’t detract from his success—it enhanced it. The ability to step away from the books, even briefly, allowed him to return to his studies with renewed focus and energy.
At SJSM, where students are preparing for demanding careers, this lesson is particularly relevant. The long hours and tough rotations are temporary, but the habits you develop now will shape your future career. Dr. Patel’s experience shows that it’s possible to achieve great things in medical school without losing sight of the things that make life enjoyable and meaningful.
Beyond the White Coat: Long-Term Career Planning
As you navigate medical school, it’s easy to get caught up in the immediate pressures—exams, rotations, and the residency match. But Dr. Patel encourages students to also think long-term about what kind of physician they want to be. Do you want to be the doctor who works 80 hours a week for the rest of your life, or do you envision a career that allows for more balance?
Dr. Patel himself chose the latter path, and he’s proof that it’s possible. After completing his dermatology training, he now practices teledermatology and runs PrepXpert, a test preparation company he successfully pitched on ABC’s Shark Tank. His career allows him to maintain a balanced lifestyle, with time for family, hobbies, and entrepreneurial pursuits.
For SJSM students, Dr. Patel’s story is a reminder that your medical degree is a powerful tool—you can shape your career to fit your life goals. Whether you aspire to be a high-powered surgeon, a family doctor with a community focus, or even a physician-entrepreneur, the choices you make now can set you on the path to the career that’s right for you.
Applying Dr. Patel’s Wisdom to Your Journey
So how can you apply these lessons to your own experience at SJSM? Start by integrating the Seven Perspectives Method into your study routine. Challenge yourself to seek out multiple sources of information and see how your understanding deepens.
Next, take a critical look at your work-life balance. Are you allowing yourself time to recharge, or are you running on empty? Find ways to incorporate activities that bring you joy into your weekly routine, and notice how they impact your overall well-being and academic performance.
Finally, don’t lose sight of the big picture. Medical school is demanding, but it’s also temporary. The habits and strategies you develop now—both in your studies and in your personal life—will carry you through your career. Dr. Patel’s journey from medical student to dermatologist and entrepreneur is a powerful example of how diverse and fulfilling a medical career can be.
As you continue your studies, remember that you have the power to shape your own path. Take inspiration from Dr. Patel’s experiences, and strive to create a life that balances professional success with personal fulfillment.
For more tips, advice, and resources to help you on your journey, stay connected with the SJSM community.