In the whirlwind of medical school, where textbooks and exams often feel endless, Chai Pe Charcha brings a breath of fresh air. This unique networking event invites medical students and residents to connect with seasoned professionals from diverse fields, offering insights and guidance over a simple cup of chai. From doctors who’ve cracked exams like USMLE, PLAB, and NEET PG to entrepreneurs who’ve launched their own ventures in healthcare, these experts bring experiences and stories that go beyond what’s taught in the classroom.
As the event approaches, preparing your questions can be the key to making the most of this opportunity. Knowing what to ask ensures you gain practical insights, build connections, and walk away with answers that can guide your career decisions. To help you make a lasting impression and truly benefit from Chai Pe Charcha, here are five essential questions to consider asking the experts.
- “What were the biggest challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them?”: It’s easy to see successful doctors, researchers, and entrepreneurs and assume they’ve always had it figured out. But every successful professional has faced hurdles. Asking about their biggest challenges will provide you with a realistic view of the obstacles you may encounter. It will also inspire you to see how they handled setbacks, which can help you develop resilience and a growth mindset.
- “How did you decide on your specialty or career path?”: With so many options available, deciding on a specialty or field can be overwhelming. For MBBS students early in their journey, understanding the thought process behind choosing a specialty can be invaluable. Knowing how professionals weighed their interests, career goals, and lifestyle preferences can help you assess your own priorities and make a more informed choice.
- “What skills should I start developing now to be future-ready in my medical career?”: In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, technical skills alone may not be enough. With digital health, AI, telemedicine, and personalized care on the rise, soft skills like communication, leadership, and adaptability are just as critical. Asking this question can give you insight into the future of medicine, helping you prepare with the right mix of clinical and soft skills to stay relevant and effective.
- “How can I balance academics with exploring other areas like research, volunteering, or entrepreneurship?”: Medical school is demanding, and finding time for extra pursuits can seem daunting. However, balancing academics with research, volunteering, or entrepreneurship can significantly enrich your medical career. Hearing how others managed to balance their studies while exploring diverse opportunities can give you actionable tips to pursue your interests without sacrificing academic success.
- “What advice would you give your younger self at the beginning of medical school?”: This is a powerful, open-ended question that can yield surprisingly thoughtful advice. Many experts enjoy reflecting on their journey, and asking what they would say to their younger selves can offer unique guidance. You’ll likely receive insights they wish they had known, providing you with wisdom to help you navigate your own path.
Get Ready to Ask Your Questions!
With these five questions in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the most of Chai Pe Charcha. Don’t be afraid to add your own curiosity-driven questions, too! This is your opportunity to learn, be inspired, and connect with mentors who understand your journey. To make it even more interactive, we’re collecting questions from students in advance. Click the Google Form below to submit your questions – who knows, your question might be the one that sparks the most insightful discussion!
Link: https://forms.gle/CFXNKTqWemSkJxt19
Stay tuned for updates and prepare to engage in meaningful conversations over chai!
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