Question:
Hi RxPRN,
This year especially in pharmacy school, I've been having a tough time and I always end up comparing myself to my classmates. My grades are fine so far, but I feel like it takes me a lot longer than others around me to understand what's going on in the courses and labs, and I feel too embarrassed to ask to join study groups because I feel like I wouldn't be able to contribute much. I've been getting into the habit of reading over material before and after lecture, which helps, but it's really hard to make the time for it when there's so much going on. I know it's best not compare myself to others like this and I want to stop. Do you have any advice on how to get past this? I want to focus on my own strengths and successes, but I just can't seem to do it. Also, do you have any advice on asking to join study groups? I feel sometimes like everyone in the class already has people they'd prefer to study with.
Response 1:
To be very honest, I had the same feeling as you when I first started pharmacy school. I could not stop thinking that other classmates were so much smarter and more hardworking than I was. But when I thought about it again, I felt like it was very tiring to compare myself to others all the time. There are definitely people out there who are smarter than me. So why do I use this as positive motivation? Our classmates are all very kind and nice. I’m sure that if you ask them questions, they’d love to help. This would also help them in reinforcing the concepts they learnt in class too! You shouldn’t feel embarrassed to participate in study groups at all! We are all here to learn and help each other to learn. Don’t hesitate to ask for help :)
It doesn't matter what your mark is, because as long as you try your best, there is nothing to regret. We will all graduate together and become good pharmacists with caring personalities and the eagerness to help our patients!
Response 2:
Thank you for posting this question! I believe that this is something that many of us struggle with, including myself. I know it can be difficult when the material seems like it is coming more easily to other students, but even though it’s taking you a bit longer, you are still doing well and learning the material. As someone who highly values academic success, I understand that it is difficult to separate yourself from the grade and try to figure out what makes you “different” from everyone else. I think it’s important to recognize that school is one part of your life and that everyone has a different story and different strengths that make them unique. For myself, I found that becoming more involved in clubs has given me a sense of self because I feel like I am making a difference. This involvement can help shift focus away from comparing academic abilities to focusing on yourself as a well-rounded student. As for joining study groups, I would encourage you to ask your classmates to join their groups or even start your own group for students like you who just want someone to study with! I believe that everyone contributes to group study (comparing notes taken in class, sharing ideas, discussing readings, and even if someone is explaining a concept to you, this is still helping them reinforce the material). Don’t sell yourself short, you have a lot to offer the group! Best of luck!