Prioritizing faith during the first couple years of medical training can be more manageable. Christian students in their 1st and 2nd-year are more often in the physical presence of other Christians in their college. It is easier to build community when you’re often studying with, and spending time with other Christians. These friends share in the same struggles.
The same cannot be said for 3rd and 4th-year students. One of the greatest challenges when getting into the practicum stage, is isolation. Sadly, rotations can be characterized by spiritual stagnation.
At our April gathering 4th-year med students at OSUCOM, Thomas Mason and Juliana Mather, shared with younger students about how they have continued to walk by faith during these more spiritually-challenging years. They offered great insight about the nature of the challenges, while sharing about how they have kept the faith. A rewarding and encouraging time was had by all in attendance.
