Many people drop out of all types of colleges and universities for a variety of lessons, but statistics show that medical schools have a higher rate of student drop outs. In this article, we will examine why students quit medical school and how you can avoid dropping out.
Why People Drop Out of Medical School
Often, students in long-term medical programs drop out due to “burning out”. This happens when a student is working consistently for extended periods of time in the field and begins to feel tired of all the work, or the work itself. The repetitiveness of medical tasks are crucial to perfecting the technique, but it can lead to a student feeling fatigued from the repetition.
Another common reason is family issues. Having a child means a parent (the other or the father) has less time for just about everything. Likewise, aging parents, family with long-term injuries, and having to move can all factor into having to leave school.
A common reason for both medical and non-medical students is money issues. It’s a known fact that school costs a lot of money, and it is hard to work and attend school at the same time.
Finally, some students simply feel that the medical field is not what they want. This can come from a number of reasons – for instance they find they fear certain medical actions such as surgery, blood, or injections. Others believe they just aren’t good enough to work in the field, or don’t like the particular medical major they chose.
How to Avoid These Issues
The feeling of “burning out” happens in nearly every medical profession. This is because of the intensity, repetitiveness, stress, and occasionally scary instances that those in the profession may encounter. There are many techniques to dismiss or quell the burnt out feeling. Consider using counseling or therapy that specializes in the medical field, and remember to never take your work home with you.
Family issues are something that is harder to avoid. Many schools allow for extended leave in case of pregnancy, illness in the family, and other sudden issues. Try to work with other family members, professionals, or close friends to help take care of things so you don’t need to leave permanently.
Money issues are difficult – you can continue taking out loans, applying for grants and scholarships, working – but it still isn’t always enough. If you are able to, find a facility that will help pay your tuition for work. Also consider deferring student loans.
If you feel that your chosen field isn’t for you – that can be a valid reason to dropout. But before you do, explore other options similar to that major. If you don’t enjoy medical assisting, consider going into medical research assisting for a less hands-on job.