Sometimes the path that humbles you the most, is the one which you learn the most from.
Coming from a place where I hadn’t performed as well as expected in my NEET UG, I did carry the weight of acing the NEET MDS examination, not for anyone else. But for the 18 year old me who had seen a dream, but decided to choose a different path. Nevertheless, she wanted to shine through every milestone. She did sacrifice a lot and I owed her so much.
As I had decided on, I gave in my best since the first year of college, was always a consistent student and scored distinction in multiple subjects throughout my BDS. During my internship again, I put in every ounce of effort, I could to prepare for my NEET MDS.
Preparation wasn’t easy, either. It changed me in so many ways and taught me consistency on days I had no motivation. It built resilience when self-doubt was louder than confidence. And slowly, it replaced fear with focus. I could not see myself, doing anything else apart from oral and maxillofacial surgery.
When the results came, I secured an All India Rank of 900. For many, that would be enough. But deep down, I still longed for a government seat, the kind of validation we’re often conditioned to chase. Maybe I lacked focus while answering, maybe I over analyzed a few or maybe it just wasn’t written.
But by the end of it, I realised that I still have an opportunity to follow my passion, choose my dreams over my insecurities and avail the best possible option that I have.
And that is what I did. I secured a seat in AB shetty memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, in OMFS. One of the most prestigious institutions in our field and I’ll always be proud of being an alumi and remain indebted.
And what followed it, was something that changed me completely. I remember myself as a different person, three years ago. Residency humbled me, taught me resilience, empathy. I could explore the wonderful world of surgery and learned that universe always directs you on the right path, the one which is right for you.
Few years later, I am so proud of my decision and more of the person that I’ve become. Some decisions may not feel easy at first but they do have the best outcomes. They lead you to exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Just make best of the opportunities that you get!!
MBH/AB
