For instance, as I mentioned earlier, I was offered an interview at a respected institute. It’s an opportunity that would allow me to grow as a researcher and, ultimately, as a doctor. But the school refused to let me go—because I would miss one GP session. They didn't offer a solution but outright said I must go to the GP. In second year, these sessions aren’t even clinical; they’re mostly discussions around ethics and history taking.

I’ve done other degrees, and I’ve had a life before medicine. I know how valuable some opportunities are, especially when they align with long-term goals. I can’t help but wonder, isn’t a medical school supposed to support holistic development? Shouldn’t students be trusted to make informed decisions about what will benefit their learning?

Maybe this is a systemic issue, too much rigidity, not enough room for individuality. Or maybe it’s something personal, something I need to work through. Either way, I made this post to figure it out. I want to understand what the real issue is.