In a Student Life, What Makes You Happy?
It is far too short a life, to be disturbed or unhappy over little things.
The other day, I came across a question on Quora: “What makes you happy as a student?” It was intriguing to me, because I’ve been rather depressed lately. In a previous post, I shared more about some traumatic events that occurred to me. The third year of medical school, brought about a lot of unexpected fears. I am terrified of failing tests or exams, not graduating on time and it feels like I am simply waiting for random mishaps to occur that could impinge on the process.
I’m getting the feeling that I’m running out of time; with regards to making achievements, scoring good grades or improving my GPA. With the recent Covid-19 restrictions, campus life has become a drab and I’d say my education quality has suffered as a result. Knowing that I still have a long way to go, it felt necessary to me, to renew my intentions and take a fresh look on school.
I. Curiosity
I find the academic rigor in medical school extremely appealing. I remember being so hungry for knowledge back then, and working so hard to get into medical school because I wanted to learn everything I know now. It’s humbling to learn how medicine improves and saves lives. That kind of knowledge really shapes you as a person. It’s good remind myself that I am on this journey to seek God’s pleasure first and foremost. That my ultimate goal is to have my path to Jannah (heaven) easy, rather than of the worldly perks of success.
“Whoever follows the path in pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make a path to Jannah easy for him”
It makes me happy to know that I am in a safe space to explore different horizons, try new things and make mistakes. The real world isn’t so forgiving. I know we are all probably confused and scared now, but I want to believe that things will fall into place. And I’ll laugh one day at how scared I was about school.
II. Independence
I enjoy my independence and freedom to concentrate solely on myself. Living alone, taught me to budget, clean and to cook (which I clearly don’t know how to, LOL). I learn to develop discipline, as well. On days when you are on top of everything — juggling lectures, assignments, lab practicals and having a LIFE- it provides you with a sense of euphoria and accomplishment.
Solitude aside, people have told me that I should try to enjoy myself as much as possible because I will miss these days. To get far, you need a lot of help from people around you — your friends.
It’s been a blast meeting new individuals from all walks of life and forming lasting friendships (that is, after you successfully navigate through all the drama). I enjoy having deep intellectual discussions with the right people.
Going through the daily hardships of university life with the group of individuals who understand how difficult and demanding it can be, makes the big task seem a lot less daunting.
III. My parent’s smile
The thought of seeing my parents’ faces light up when I put on my graduation robe or white coat one day, motivates me. They have made numerous sacrifices to ensure that all I have to worry about, is doing well in my studies. I think it is an innate desire of every child, to make their parent’s proud.
It’s all too easy to get caught up in tests, deadlines, and “what ifs.” But never forget how fortunate you are to be where you are today. Many others have no idea what they want to do with their lives, have no idea what their passion or dreams are. Be knowledge thirsty, learn as much as your mind will allow. Be enthralled by what lies underneath, above, and beyond the sky.
Develop both your personality and your intellect. Be confident, knowledgeable, compassionate, and kind. Fall in love, build strong friendships, eat as much as possible, and get plenty of sleep.
It is far too short a life, to be disturbed or unhappy over the little things.
Basrah is a Year 3 Medical Student in FK UMSU, Medan who is also an aspiring authorpreneur. Read Basrah's humble beginnings, "From Rejection to Motivation". Feel free to send Basrah a message here.
What about you? Anything in particular makes you happy as a student?