We are living in a “brave new world” during the COVID 19 pandemic: we are compelled to adjust to a new world order which resembles a futuristic and surreal reality out of a science fiction novel (Aldous Huxley’s novel). A myriad of universities have gone completely online, including Medical Schools. Of course, this poses formidable challenges for medical candidates who are coping with a rigorous academic program and having to do so on- line. Here is some pragmatic advice I learned while in Teacher’s College at the University of Western Ontario.

              First, create a “room of one’s own” (Virginia Woolf’s novel). Students need to have a study space, comprising of a desk, laptop, pens, pencils and other learning tools, all located in one space. This physical order will influence one’s sense of mental order. Additionally, it is highly disruptive to have to look for learning tools in the middle of a virtual lecture. So, take the time to organize a study area, and keep it tidy, i.e., put things back where they belong.

              Second, take the time to cultivate a support system with other medical candidates, friends and family. So many medical students are Type-A personalities: driven, perfectionistic, studious and hard working. This is all well and good. Indeed, this strong work ethic is what got these students into Medical School. However, it is also important to take care of one’s mental health, and social interaction and support fosters healthy mental health. After all, medical students will eventually become Medical Doctors, and we, as a society look to these professionals as role models in terms of over- all health, physical, mental and psychological.

              Third, do interact with other medical students in person, but take the necessary precautions in light of COVID 19, including wearing a mask, maintaining social distance and washing one’s hands frequently. While the pandemic has compelled some Medical Schools to proceed on-line, this does not translate to a complete prohibition to meet with other students in person. Just be safe about doing so.

           Finally, I would advise medical students to take the time to actually enjoy what they are learning. These students are in such a privileged environment where they are gaining a wealth of knowledge. This knowledge is better absorbed and sustained in one’s memory when the apprehension of said knowledge is enjoyable. Remember the reason for wanting to study medicine in the first place: the sense of awe and wonder at the human body. In the words of Dr. Ben Carson,
“When I look at the human brain I’m still in awe of it.”