MED - References: post #562 — TG.ME

Sharing this for the greater benefit, Insha’Allah. This is my first rejection in my academic journey, and I believe sharing it is just as important as sharing achievements. A reminder to myself before anyone else: rejection is part of the process, not a barrier to your dreams. Sometimes it’s simply a push to reflect on the small things we can improve. For context, this was my experience: - My CV is above average: BSc in Biology, MSc in Neuropsychology, final-year medical student - 4 publications, with 3 more in progress - Strong academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and conference participation - A very positive elective experience with good connections built (attendings and residents). - An interview that went really well, with strong interest in my research background Was that enough to secure a spot? Apparently not. Is it disappointing? To some extent.. especially given how limited opportunities are in Lebanon and the region. Am I sad? NO. Why? Because before anything else, we are dealing with Allah. Before any program director, before any system, before any opportunity in this dunya.. there is His decree. A believer anchors himself in this reality, knowing that acceptance and rejection are both part of what is خير for us, even when we don’t see it. As the Prophet ﷺ said: “How wonderful is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything… If something good happens, he is grateful and that is good for him. If something bad happens, he is patient and that is better for him.” (Sahih Muslim) Medicine is becoming increasingly competitive. Residency applications are harder than ever, and this will likely continue. This is not meant to discourage, but to prepare. Anchor yourself properly: Not in outcomes. Not in people. But in your relationship with Allah. Prioritize your الآخرة over anything in this dunya, because what we chase here can change in an instant. Life will always have highs and lows.. what matters is navigating both with an Allah-centered mindset, not a self-centered one. ﴿عَسَىٰ أَن تَكْرَهُوا شَيْئًا وَهُوَ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ وَعَسَىٰ أَن تُحِبُّوا شَيْئًا وَهُوَ شَرٌّ لَّكُمْ وَاللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ﴾ He knows, and you don’t.. so trust Him.