Marlyn George, a final year student of Yerevan State Medical University named after Mkhitar Heratsi, was born in India but she spent most of her upbringing in Saudi Arabia. She has taken leadership roles as the Founder and President of YSMU Career Center Cardiology Society, Head of Medical Students at the Surgical Society of Doctors UK, and Global Ambassador for Armenia at FMSA. Marlyn is also a Harvard Global Leadership School scholar.
We talked to the future cardiologist who speaks 7 languages about the opportunities offered by the Medical University, the activities of the Cardiology Society, as well as professional programs.
– Why and how did you decide to become a doctor? Was that your dream? Or would you like to change something?
– Throughout my childhood, my parents served as my greatest source of My father worked in radiology, while my mother was involved in hospital quality management. Witnessing their tireless dedication to helping complete strangers, even at the early hours of the morning, has been a constant motivation for me to pursue a career in medicine.
As an aspiring Interventional Cardiac Surgeon, I am also deeply interested in HealthTech and medical entrepreneurship. To gain more insights into the workings of businesses in this field, I have gained experience working with US-based companies. I am now in the process of starting my own venture, driven by the desire to make a more significant impact on people's lives beyond what I can achieve solely as a physician. I aspire to establish my own HealthTech startup with the goal of making a significant impact on the lives of thousands of individuals. My aim is to provide access to high-quality healthcare for all, regardless of their economic status, with a particular focus on cardiac patients who are unable to afford expensive procedures.
– Why did you choose Armenia and YSMU for your further education?
– During my search for potential medical universities, I reached out to some of my seniors from school in Saudi Arabia, who happened to be studying at YSMU. They shared only positive feedback about Armenia. Upon conducting my own research, I discovered that YSMU had an excellent global ranking, and Armenia as a country is both safe and beautiful, with incredibly welcoming locals. I learned that attempting to speak Armenian, even if only a little, is highly appreciated and warmly received.
YSMU provided me with ample opportunities to develop both as an individual and as a prospective physician.
– Which medical profession will you choose later?
– I derive immense pleasure from studying cardiology, and my ultimate goal is to become an Interventional Cardiac S Additionally, I plan on exploring the Health Tech industry and combining my medical expertise with research endeavors.
– How would you describe your life in Armenia?
– I had a wonderful experience during my time in Armenia, and I will surely miss the place and its people. Being in this country helped me mature and develop into an adult. I relished exploring Armenia's natural beauty by traveling with my friends, going on hikes, visiting museums, picnicking in parks, attending parties, and music festivals. I can confidently say that I had an incredible college experience that exceeded my expectations.
– Please, tell about the activities of Cardiology Society and your responsibility there.
– The YSMU Career Center Cardiology Society is a student-led initiative that serves as a platform for learning about internal medicine and cardiology. We would like to express our appreciation to the university administration for their support in bringing our vision to fruition. Our society conducts workshops, seminars, and conferences, with speakers who have successfully cleared exams such as USMLE and PLAB, as well as physicians who share their experiences of working in different countries. Additionally, we are actively involved in research projects. As a student in Armenia, I have benefited greatly from the academic opportunities presented to me, and I am committed to contributing to Armenia and YSMU in the field of academia. Our society currently has nearly 280 members, and a 25-member Executive Committee. The YSMU Cardiology Society has taken a significant step towards its recognition as a student interest group in the American College of Cardiology. Having cleared 2 out of the 3 necessary steps, we are optimistic about announcing the good news soon, which will put YCS on the prestigious list of approved organizations.
– From your point of view, what is important for a doctor? What is necessary to become a good doctor and have a successful career?
Being a good doctor means more than just technical skills. Empathy, communication, and continuous learning are also essential. Successful doctors care for patients as whole persons, stay up-to-date with advancements, remain open-minded, collaborate with colleagues, and build strong relationships.
While striving towards your goals, it's not guaranteed that you will always succeed, nor will everyone support you. You may encounter failure and negativity, but it's essential to stay focused and persist despite setbacks. As the Japanese proverb says, “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” Believe in yourself and continue moving forward towards your aspirations.
Author: Tatevik Ghazaryan
Photos: by Mary Galstyan