Going to college when you have kids is much harder than going when you don't, no question about it. Medical school is even harder than the average college, so you can imagine having children in medical school sure isn't an easy thing, and many people would advise against it. Here are some pros and cons, but in addition to what the writer offers, I want to share my thoughts.
I have a friend that went to medical school while having children, and because of that, in part, she never managed to complete it, and now doesn't work as a doctor. But that doesn't mean it's impossible, but it is very difficult.
So why would someone choose to have kids while in medical school? Well, it depends. For many people, having children is important, and for some having a large family is. Depending on when you start having children, your fertility window isn't always so high, so you might not want to wait until all the pre-med, medical school, internship, and fellowship are done before you have children. Or sometimes you already have children and decide that you want to go into medicine. Medicine can be a good career for parents, because depending on the specialty, there can be very mom friendly hours. And you might want to be able to have the paycheck that this job provides before your children are already grown up, or put off having your dream family because of medical school. Either way, it will be a challenge, so here are some things you should consider.
I have a friend that went to medical school while having children, and because of that, in part, she never managed to complete it, and now doesn't work as a doctor. But that doesn't mean it's impossible, but it is very difficult.
So why would someone choose to have kids while in medical school? Well, it depends. For many people, having children is important, and for some having a large family is. Depending on when you start having children, your fertility window isn't always so high, so you might not want to wait until all the pre-med, medical school, internship, and fellowship are done before you have children. Or sometimes you already have children and decide that you want to go into medicine. Medicine can be a good career for parents, because depending on the specialty, there can be very mom friendly hours. And you might want to be able to have the paycheck that this job provides before your children are already grown up, or put off having your dream family because of medical school. Either way, it will be a challenge, so here are some things you should consider.
As a parent, or a future one at that, you'll have to juggle many responsibilities. You'll be handling even more on your plate when you're pursuing a medical degree. And you can't simply focus on one over the other. Your attention on your family and your studies should be balanced. It's a significant undertaking, but it's worth it in the end.
Are you in med school and planning to have kids, or do you already have little ones in your care? Then, keep reading to learn the benefits and challenges of having children in medical school.
The Benefits
Of course, there are many amazing aspects of raising kids while pursuing a medical education. The benefits include:
Sense of Purpose
Parenting in medical school can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Kids bring so much love and happiness, which can motivate you during the stressful years of medical school.
When you have a purpose, achieving goals, such as becoming a doctor, pushes you to do your best in anything. For instance, you'll be working hard as you complete your pre-med internships and any step you do before entering med school,
Increased Empathy
Having children while in medical school can enhance one's empathy and understanding. For one, parenting experiences can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by patients and their families. This increased empathy can positively impact your interactions with patients and your approach to patient care.
Positive Impact on Future Patients
Being a parent could positively influence your future career as a physician. Your personal experiences can make you a more compassionate and understanding healthcare provider. You may be better equipped to relate to patients' experiences and offer empathetic care.
Let these advantages encourage you to continue your medical training while raising a family. But keep in mind that it's not always sunshine and rainbows.
The Challenges
Obstacles and having children in medical school come hand in hand. Here are some of the challenges student parents can expect:
Time Management
Balancing schoolwork, clinical rotations, and family responsibilities is no easy feat. Employing effective time management strategies then becomes more important to help you juggle multiple priorities.
Start by crafting a detailed schedule that delineates specific periods for academics, clinical rotations, and family time. Then, prioritize tasks strategically, focusing on urgency and importance. And remember, it's okay to lean on your support network - partner, family, or friends - when the juggling act becomes overwhelming.
Financial Strain
Raising a family isn't cheap, and medical students often struggle with money. Childcare costs, healthcare expenses, and education fees can add to the financial burden.
To help you manage this, create a detailed budget tracking all income and expenses. It also helps to research available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. For personalized guidance, consider discussing your situation with your medical school's office of financial assistance.
Emotional Stress
Being a medical student and a parent can take a toll on your emotions. Fatigue, anxiety, and guilt are common experiences. Given these challenges, prioritizing self-care becomes a must.
Find activities that help you relax and manage stress. Mindfulness techniques, meditation, and exercise, for example, can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Don't hesitate to seek support from mental health professionals if you're struggling to cope.
However, if you find yourself struggling to cope despite these efforts, it's important to recognize when professional help may be needed. Don't hesitate to seek support from mental health professionals; they can provide valuable tools and strategies to help you manage the stressors you face in your dual roles.
Academic Performance
Family demands may conflict with academic expectations, which could negatively affect the latter. Increased stress, decreased study time, and sleep deprivation can all make it challenging to maintain focus.
To help you juggle these demands, create a conducive study environment at home to maximize productivity during limited study windows. Utilize time management techniques, too, and seek academic support from professors or tutors when needed.
Social Isolation
Trying to balance both family obligations and academic demands may, at times, lead to social isolation. However, it's important to maintain social connections and friendships. So, consider joining student organizations, participating in social activities, and utilizing online communication tools to stay connected with your peers.
These challenges might discourage you from continuing your medical education. However, they're conquerable with the right support systems by your side.
Support Systems
Many medical schools offer resources to support students who are parents. These resources may include childcare subsidies, lactation rooms, and counseling services. So, explore the resources available at your medical school and take advantage of the support they provide.
A strong support network is also essential while having children in medical school. So, lean on your family and friends for emotional support, practical assistance, and childcare help. Their presence is especially helpful if you're pursuing your degree while pregnant.
Joining student organizations for parents in medical school can also provide a sense of community and support. These organizations often offer opportunities for networking, sharing experiences, and finding resources.
Final Thoughts
Having children while in medical school is a wild and often bumpy ride – it's both tough and fulfilling. But what you could get in the end is a successful career in medicine and happy, healthy children. If you find yourself struggling, especially if you have a new baby or you're a first-year medical student, feel free to seek help. There are many groups and individuals out there who would gladly provide guidance and support. Just take a deep breath and focus on the good to overcome the hurdles along the way.