Following My Passion Despite Expectations.

SOURCE

One reason I did not study medicine was that I needed to pass at least three science courses in my O-level exam (WAEC).

I was good in chemistry and physics, but I sucked at both biology, which was a compulsory course to pass, and then elective geography. Although I do not fail them, it was usually a struggle studying them, so I just cram to pass. Again, having heard a lot of tales on how difficult the discipline is at the university, I wasn’t willing to go through any challenges in acquiring the degree.

Moreover, being aware that biology is a key course in medicine, it strengthened my resolve to boycott science. Hence, I majored in social sciences. While I thought that I was deciding what was best for me, my proprietor felt otherwise. Next, he called my attention immediately to confirm it was really my decision and I wasn’t being influenced.

The thing is, my father had told my proprietor of his intentions for me to become a medical doctor, and being my father’s friend, he was keen to see it happen. So imagine his disappointment when he saw my name listed under social sciences. I suppose he felt responsible for my academic choices because he had always assured my father that I would make a great medical doctor.

Or probably, he assures my dad, because my science grades were good and it showed I wasn’t struggling with any subjects, not even almighty biology and geography. This made my decision difficult to stand because when I related my challenges to him. Hence, he sent for my form master as it didn’t really make sense that I would say I’m struggling with both courses when my lowest grade on them was a B.

Moving on, I couldn’t really explain the phenomenon behind my struggles, but after contemplating on it critically at my proprietor’s office while waiting for my form master, it hit me. I realized that I do not have the patience for long reads, and both subjects were voluminous.

In fact, updating my notes was a problem, as it gets tiring to copy after the teacher. At a point I decided to study with my textbooks so I don’t lag behind.

My form master arrived and I was asked to repeat my statement. I didn’t just repeat it, I explained to them that, unlike the major subjects in sciences, I find it easier studying and assimilating social science subjects. So easy that I just needed to read the introduction, and I already know the outcome of the message that the topic was passing.

When I got done talking, they started discussing, while I listened. After their discussion, my proprietor questioned if I was being influenced by peer pressure, as most of my friends majored in social sciences and art. I shook my head in refusal, and then my form master suggested that the teacher of those subjects tutor me privately for a fee. The proprietor bought the idea and told me he would discuss it with my father.

While I understood he wanted the best for me, I wasn’t pleased that my decision was being ignored. I knew nothing I would say will change his mind so I just let him and resolved to settle it with my parents. Luckily, they’ve always given my siblings and Ithe liberty to live life how best it comes to us. It was due to that liberty that I remained in social sciences.

As for mastering Geography and Biology later on, I’d say right now, I do have a fair knowledge on both given how well I have advanced in my study.