ACE USMLE - Dr. Narendra Nath Ravi
Name: Dr. Narendra Nath Ravi
Birth Place: Oman, Muscat
Educational Qualification: MD, Medicine from Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia (Graduation Year - 2022)
In which year did you qualify for USMLE?
2021
What specialty are you interested to pursue? And reasons for choosing that specialty?
Internal medicine. I am super interested in gastroenterology, which is why I have chosen this specialty. Additionally, I believe that internal medicine is a broad field that allows us to consider various systems when it comes to patient care.
When did you start preparing for USMLE?
I started to prepare from 2020.
Did you take any coaching? Do you think coaching is necessary for clearing USMLE?
Nope, I believe the study materials and dedication play an important factor.
How did you balance your school/internship and USMLE Preparations? Was it the same or you studied separately for USMLE and the school examination?
I actually had ample of time after my university hours to prepare for the step exams. I had enough time to balance and enjoy everything I did.
What were your sources during preparation for USMLE?
Pathoma, uworld, BNB, Kaplan
What are the major challenges that you faced during preparation? How did you handle them?
I don’t think I had any challenges as such, but during my Step 2 I believe I didn’t give enough time for myself. In the sense I had rushed the exam. Only thing that I could’ve done was to wait, calm myself down and could’ve given the exam another time.
Is it true that preparing for this exam requires longer hours of study or burning the midnight oil? Did you have time to attend family functions or festivals, or were you always studying?
I had plenty of time and managed to balance everything effectively. I didn’t miss any events. I typically studied for 5 to 6 hours without distractions, which allowed me enough time for other activities. Maintaining a good balance in my workload is essential.
How did you keep yourself motivated during your entire journey?
I had a friend with whom I studied for the exams. This way, we motivated each other, which helped us pass the exams.
Did you use technology like social media or phone during your preparation? How did you prevent yourself from Doomscroling?
I was fairly active on social media, but only in the last few months did I take it seriously. I still didn't delete any apps.
What do you think is the right time for starting preparation of USMLE?
The right time to start preparing for USMLE would be around the third/fourth year of Medical School.
How many attempts one should take at this exam if one does not succeed?
I would say in a single try.
Your Mantra for success?
As simple as it sounds.. “it is what it is”.
What advice would you like to give to the USMLE aspirants?
Don’t compare yourselves with others. Focus on yourself and keep yourself engaged in activities during studying periods.
Rapid Fire
What was the last thing you Googled?
Cric info (to see what cricket matches were being played)
What is your spiciest opinion that most people disagree with?
Migraines can be extremely intense, and having to sacrifice some things often riles people up.
Who is the one person that you admire the most (alive or dead)?
MS Dhoni
What is the hardest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your life?
The fact that I completed all 3 Steps was my biggest challenge.
Anything you want to share about yourself?
I am tall. (6’2) As per people I don’t look like a friendly person , but the more you get to know me the more you realize that I am actually a chill person.
