Ikaneng Yingwane, student ambassador at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences, shares his advice on transitioning from theory to practice as a medical student.

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Hey fellow medical students! As we shift from the classroom to the hospital wards, it's a whole new ball game. I've been there, and I know it can be exciting but also a bit intimidating. Let's talk about what to expect and some tips to help you navigate this transition.

First off, what you think clinical rotations will be like might not be exactly how it turns out. We've all seen medical shows and maybe even played doctor as kids, but the real thing is different. It's not just exciting emergencies; there's also routine stuff, paperwork, and a lot of learning as you go. Don't stress if things feel overwhelming at first—that's pretty normal!

Now, let's talk about skills. We're not just memorising facts anymore; we're talking to real people and learning how to ask the right questions and do basic procedures. It might feel awkward at first, but don't be afraid to give it a try. Everyone starts somewhere, and practice really does help.

Building relationships is super important in the hospital. Patients are often nervous or scared, and a friendly chat or a smile can really make their day. And let's not forget about working with nurses, doctors, and other staff. Teamwork is key, so be polite, talk clearly, and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

Clinical rotations can be busy, with patient care, learning new things, and studying for tests. It's easy to feel like you're swamped. My advice? Stay organised. Make lists of what you need to do, figure out what's most important, and set aside time for both learning and taking care of yourself. A little planning can make a big difference!

Now, let's talk about the tough days. You might see things that are really sad or have to make decisions that are tough to handle. It's okay to feel stressed or unsure; we're all human. If you need to talk, reach out to friends, teachers, or counselling services. And don't forget to take care of yourself—eat right, get some exercise, and make time for things you enjoy outside of medicine.

Last but not least, set some goals for yourself. What do you want to learn or do during each rotation? Maybe you're curious about a certain specialty or want to get better at something specific. Don't be shy about asking for chances to learn and grow. Show that you're eager to learn, ask questions, and be enthusiastic, really pays off!

Moving from the classroom to clinical rotations is a big change, but it's also a great chance to learn and grow. Embrace the challenges, stay open to new experiences, and remember you're not alone. We're all in this together, and I'm cheering for you all. Good luck out there, and let's become the best doctors we can be! 

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