Ms. Purnima Singh, a year 4 MBBS student and Dr. Hamza AlKowatli, GMU MBBS Graduate from Class of 2022, currently undergoing internship training at the Emirates Hospital, Dubai, recently passed the USMLE Steps 1 and 2 respectively. Feeling accomplished, they shared their experiences with our current students as part of Career Advising session – ‘My Experience with USMLE’, conducted on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. The session was attended by about 90 students of the MBBS and Higher Diploma in Preclinical Sciences Programs.
Ms. Purnima shed light on the structure of the USMLE Step 1 exam, the preparation strategies, the resources, and tips for success. Dr. Hamza, on the other hand, focused mainly on the details of USMLE Step 2, its preparation, as well as tips for increasing the prospects of matching to a residency program of choice. Both speakers addressed queries raised by students with regards to the time taken to prepare for exams, comparing the benefits of various resources, and optimizing their effort in its preparation, and balancing time between university exams and the USMLE.
Dr. Hamza reiterated “Consistency is key! I most certainly believe the steps are about staying consistent and being patient, as the steps aren’t easy to complete.” Ms. Purnima advised, “It is important to set your target date, plan your schedule of preparation accordingly and build your mental stamina. I think dedication and trust in yourself is the key to success.”
“It was a very enlightening talk showing us a clear path forward to crack the difficult steps,” said Wesam; “An eyeopener indeed, to actual preparation required for the exam, can’t thank the speakers enough!” observed Suleiman, both Year 3 students of the MBBS Program.
“College of Medicine regularly conducts Career Advising sessions like this, for senior and near-graduating students from various programs, to familiarize them about their path forward. We engage successful alumni or students who have recently passed any of the licensing exams like USMLE steps, PLAB, EMREE or UAE Licensing exams to share their success stories,’ said Prof. Manda Venkatramana, Vice Chancellor Academics & Dean, College of Medicine congratulating the two illustrious speakers.