Ravi Dalal, an Indian student of the Faculty of General Medicine of Yerevan State Medical University, has always dreamed of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. “Even though it will be a very difficult and time taking task but I think I will enjoy that journey a lot”, he says.
The 25-year-old future doctor was born in a village in Haryana neighboring state of Delhi. He spent the first years of his life in his native village. Ravi's family later moved to the capital to provide him with a good education.
“While living in the village I spent most of my time reading. I think reading is what shaped my personality. During various stages of my schooling I had interest in various sports like cricket, football, volleyball, but reading is the hobby which was consistent throughout my life”, he tells.
It is the childhood dream of the Indian student to be a doctor. “As a kid, when I used to visit the doctor, I used to observe the doctor with a very keen interest. Seeing how the doctor works and helps patients is what triggered me falling in love into this profession. I think human body is a wonderful mystery which needs to be solved, and in doing so we will be helping billions of people”, Ravi says.
While searching for a good place to study medicine he got to know about a student from his hometown who was already studying at YSMU. After inquiring about the country and the university Ravi’s family was satisfied and felt safe enough to send him to Armenia. “I think Armenia is a very beautiful and safe place, and Armenian people are very warm hearted. Just like my own country, India, Armenia also have thousands of years of old heritage and culture. For me now Armenia is like a second home. It never felt like a strange place for me”, he emphasizes.
According to Ravi, a doctor must have certain qualities out of which patience and dedication towards the profession are must. “A doctor should always know how to have a conversation not only with the patient, but also with the family of the patient. I think if a doctor talks with the patient properly then it has a very good psychological effect and helps in better treatment of the patient. Some consider money is a way to evaluate success, but I think money should be just a byproduct. The real success is when you have a positive influence on your society, and whenever people remember you, they should do so with a smile on their face. A doctor should have such reputation that a patient even before seeing you have complete faith that he/she will be treated properly”, Indian student concludes.
Author: Tatevik Ghazaryan