Why I Chose Trivandrum Medical College Over Better Institutions in the North
My decision to choose Trivandrum Medical College (TMC) over other prominent institutions in the northern part of the country, such as KGMU, stemmed from a myriad of factors. This choice was not made lightly, but rather, it was a deeply considered decision that aligns with my personal and professional aspirations. In this article, I will delve into the reasons behind my choice and explain why TMC was the best decision for my academic journey.
Personal and Professional Preferences
Origin and Language Adaptation
As a Malayali, I was drawn to studying in Kerala due to my ease in adjusting to a familiar environment. While I was born and brought up in Gujarat, I possess a commendable command of the Malayalam language. This linguistic comfort enabled me to swiftly adapt to the academic and social life at TMC. The familiarity of the surroundings and the language helped me focus more on my studies rather than navigating a new linguistic and cultural landscape.
Academic and Professional Aspirations
My lifelong dream has been to become an Oncologist, a dream that persists in the depths of my heart. Trivandrum Medical College stands out due to its proximity to the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), one of the nation's premier hospitals for oncology. This unique advantage allowed me to gain early exposure to the workings of an oncology unit, as well as provided me with the opportunity to volunteer and understand this field from the inside. Access to such a specialized institution early on is invaluable for anyone aspiring to be an oncologist.
Academic Excellence and Resources
Top-notch Academic Facilities
TMC prides itself on offering top-notch academic facilities, which are crucial for the rigorous training that medical students undergo. The college boasts a dedicated library and a network of high-quality professors who are experts in their fields. These resources are vital for enhancing one's understanding of complex medical concepts and preparing for the challenges ahead.
Proximity to PG Coaching Centres
One of the significant advantages of TMC is its proximity to PG coaching centres, which are within a short distance of approximately 0.5-1km from the campus. These centres play a pivotal role in the preparation of postgraduate students, offering them essential guidance and support during their critical training phases.
Practical Experience and Research Opportunities
Practical Experience
TMC's patient load is exceptionally high, with 80,000 inpatients and 750,000 outpatients annually. The concentration of patients at the Mother and Child Hospital (MCH) is just one aspect of the vast clinical experience available. The college also has a separate hospital for women's health (SAT Hospital), ophthalmology (Regional Institute of Ophthalmology), psychiastry, and a diabetic clinic. These diverse healthcare facilities provide a comprehensive and practical learning environment, benefiting students in every medical specialty.
Research Opportunities
The college offers extensive research opportunities through its association with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Additionally, TMC has its in-house research facility, mainly located within Sri Chitra Tirunal Hospital. This hospital is a central government-owned institution that conducts extensive research, providing students with firsthand exposure to cutting-edge medical studies. The support from some exceptional seniors in the college during these research programs has been immensely beneficial.
Campus Life and Community
Peaceful Campus Life
The campus life at TMC is marked by peace and tranquillity. There is no ragging, which ensures a conducive learning environment. The college also organizes a variety of extra-curricular activities, including intrabatch and intercollege competitions, which allow students to engage in different aspects of life beyond academics. The labs at TMC are well-equipped, ensuring that students have the necessary tools to conduct experiments and labs effectively.
Summary of Reasons and Conclusion
These reasons, combined with the peaceful campus life and the holistic educational experience, made it a no-brainer for me to choose TMC. It was not only the best decision academically but also the one that aligned with my personal and professional aspirations. In all aspects, TMC provided me with the platform to realize my dream of becoming an Oncologist, and I wouldn't have it any other way.