Time Management as a Medical Student: Own Your Time, Own Your Future

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Time Management as a Medical Student: Own Your Time, Own Your Future

By: Rona Marie E. Paderes💗

My name is Rona Marie E. Paderes, an aspiring medical professional currently studying Radiologic Technology. Since childhood, I have dreamed of working in a hospital and making a difference in people’s lives. Now, I am on this challenging yet fulfilling journey, determined to succeed. Balancing academics, self-care, and time management is crucial for me. Here’s how I stay organized and motivated to achieve my goals.

1. Study Strategies📚

Studying in a medical-related course requires structure and organization. I have developed a habit of listing all the tasks I need to accomplish daily, arranging them from the most important to the least important. Each subject has different demands, so prioritizing is key. My major subjects always come first since they require the most effort and are crucial for my future. This strategy has been with me since my senior high school days at De La Salle John Bosco College, and it continues to help me stay on top of my workload.

2. Time Management Tools⏰

To ensure I use my time efficiently, I rely on a Pomodoro app while studying. This helps me track my study sessions and reminds me when to take breaks, preventing burnout. Additionally, I make use of my iPhone notes app to jot down reminders, but more often than not, I prefer writing things down on paper—it helps me remember tasks better. Having a structured approach keeps me from feeling overwhelmed and ensures I accomplish my goals efficiently.

3. Self-Care Routine😻

Radtech school can be stressful, but I make sure to take care of myself. After completing schoolwork, I reward myself with good food or a hangout session with my high school friends from Bislig City, who are also in Davao. Catching up with them helps me de-stress and take a break from academic pressures. But most of the time, my biggest comfort comes from food—it heals and helps me push forward. Aside from that, I never skip my vitamins and skincare routine because looking good makes me feel good, which boosts my confidence and motivation.

4. Challenges and Solutions💞

Challenges are inevitable, but I’ve learned to stay calm when facing them. For instance, when I have difficult quizzes in Anatomy and Physiology (Anaphy) and Physics, I remind myself not to panic, even if the schedules become overwhelming. If I struggle with a particular lesson, I don’t hesitate to ask my classmates for help or find additional learning resources. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a way to grow and improve.

5. Motivation and Mindset💁

Every day, I ask myself: “Is this the life I want to live for the rest of my life?” This simple question keeps me focused and determined. My biggest inspiration is my parents, who have always worked hard and given their best. Their sacrifices fuel my motivation to keep pushing forward and achieve my dreams.

Time management is not about being perfect—it’s about being consistent. Every small effort adds up, and progress is always better than perfection.As Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” So, plan wisely, work hard, and don’t forget to take care of yourself. Success is not just about reaching the destination but also about enjoying the journey along the way.

To all fellow students striving to achieve their dreams—keep going, stay strong, and trust the process!💗