Med School Journey: Overcoming Adversities and Achieving Success

Becoming a doctor is rarely a straight path, and at Saint James School of Medicine, we understand that each journey is as unique as the students who walk it. Today, we’re excited to share the stories of Shivani and Naveed, two recent graduates who didn’t just overcome challenges—they embraced them. Their paths to pre-matching into their desired residency programs in the U.S. are filled with determination, resilience, and a few unexpected twists that make their stories truly inspiring.

Shivani: The Little Tablet Dispenser Who Never Gave Up

Shivani’s introduction to medicine wasn’t in a classroom—it was at her grandfather’s side, making sure he took his medication on time. As a five-year-old, she didn’t see herself as a future doctor; she was just trying to help someone she loved. But this simple act of care sparked something deeper. To Shivani, doctors were like Bob the Builder, her childhood hero—only they fixed people, not buildings. This innocent comparison laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong mission.

Growing up in an underserved community, Shivani witnessed healthcare disparities that most kids her age didn’t even know existed. She saw how barriers like money, education, and language could keep people from getting the care they needed. This wasn’t just a problem to her—it was a call to action. From a young age, she started volunteering, checking pulses at her local temple, and educating her community about health issues that had gone unnoticed for years.

But Shivani’s academic journey wasn’t smooth sailing. After transferring to SJSM from an unaccredited school, she quickly realized how crucial it was to be in a program that could support her goals. SJSM offered more than just accreditation; it provided a community and an affordable education that kept her focused on becoming the doctor she always dreamed of being.

When it came to the USMLE Step exams, Shivani didn’t follow a cookie-cutter study plan. She made medicine a part of her daily routine, whether she was working out or cleaning her room. By integrating learning into her life, Shivani stayed consistent, even on the days when motivation was hard to come by. This relentless approach paid off when she pre-matched into a Family Medicine program in Chicago, where she’s now ready to bring her passion for serving underserved communities to the next level.

Naveed: Weathering the Storms on the Road to Medicine

For Naveed, the goal of becoming a doctor was set in stone from middle school. It wasn’t a question of if, but how. His journey took him across the country and back, with stops in places that tested his resolve in ways he never expected. One of those tests came in the form of a hurricane that upended his studies in the Caribbean, leaving him scrambling for a fresh start.

That fresh start came at SJSM. What drew Naveed to the school wasn’t just its reputation—it was the community. Friends who had attended SJSM spoke highly of it, and for Naveed, that sense of belonging was exactly what he needed. The school provided him with the environment and support to not just survive, but thrive.

Naveed’s clinical rotations were anything but ordinary. From 2 a.m. pre-rounds in surgical wards to grueling days in the OR, he experienced the intensity of medical training firsthand. But these weren’t just long hours—they were opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with mentors who would shape his future. His ER rotation in Chicago pushed him to sharpen his skills in patient presentations, teaching him the value of precision in a fast-paced environment.

When it came time to study for the Step exams, Naveed realized that traditional methods weren’t cutting it. He needed more than just solo study sessions—he needed a tribe. Surrounding himself with other students who were just as committed, Naveed found the motivation he needed to push through. His study schedule was rigorous, but he also knew when to step back and recharge, whether by playing volleyball or taking a well-deserved break. This balance of discipline and downtime helped him secure a spot in his top-choice residency program.

Connecting the Dots: What Makes SJSM Different

Shivani and Naveed’s stories are more than just tales of hard work—they’re examples of how SJSM empowers students to take control of their own paths. Whether it’s finding creative ways to study or relying on a supportive community, SJSM provides the tools and environment that allow students to thrive.

At Saint James School of Medicine, we’re committed to more than just educating future doctors. We’re dedicated to nurturing resilient, passionate individuals who are ready to make a difference in the world. Our accredited, affordable programs are designed to help students from all backgrounds reach their goals, no matter the challenges they face along the way.

Shivani and Naveed didn’t just dream of becoming doctors—they made it happen through hard work, creativity, and the support they found at SJSM. Their journeys remind us that with the right mindset and environment, anything is possible. If you’re inspired by their stories and ready to start your own journey, visit us at sjsm.org to learn more about how Saint James School of Medicine can help you achieve your dreams.