From MBBS to MS: Dr. Rubal Garg's Inspiring Journey to OBGY
In this chapter of A Page from Doctor’s Diary, The Aartery Chronicles made an effort to reach out to Dr. Rubal Garg to inspire aspiring doctors. What a compelling and inspiring journey it is! Dr. Rubal Garg’s story beautifully encapsulates the essence of resilience, determination, and staying true to one’s passions despite societal pressures and personal setbacks
Her words will resonate deeply with anyone facing a crossroads in their career or personal life, showcasing the power of perseverance and the courage to follow one’s true calling. Let’s hear directly from Dr. Rubal Garg:
A Childhood Dream Turned Reality
Hello! I’m Dr Rubal Garg, a person who has always dreamt of becoming a doctor. This dream became a reality in 2017 when I secured admission to Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC). My journey through 5.5 years of MBBS was a mix of hard work, learning, and personal growth.
Finding My True Calling: Obstetrics and Gynecology
However, the real challenge began when I had to decide what I wanted to specialize in. During my internship, I discovered my passion for obstetrics and gynecology (OBGY). It became clear to me that this was my calling, and I resolved to pursue it wholeheartedly.
First Attempt and Early Struggles
My first attempt at preparing during my internship was tough. The hectic schedule left me with little time to study, and I managed to secure a rank of 10,000. Determined to achieve my goal, I decided to give another attempt with complete focus and preparation
INI-CET Success: A Mixed Feeling
In November, my efforts bore fruit when I secured a rank of 515 in the INI-CET exam. I was ecstatic, believing I could finally pursue OBGY at AIIMS. During the choice-filling process, I put OBGY as my first preference and psychiatry as my second. However, I wasn’t allotted OBGY and instead received AIIMS Jodhpur for psychiatry.
Though AIIMS is a prestigious institution, I couldn’t ignore the dissatisfaction I felt. Something inside me kept reminding me that psychiatry wasn’t my true calling. Despite the excellent department and environment, I lacked fulfilment. After 1.5 months of internal conflict, I made the difficult decision to leave AIIMS Jodhpur, even though it meant paying a bond amount of ₹3 lakhs.
A New Opportunity, A Different Struggle
Soon after, I was allotted AIIMS Bilaspur for OBGY. Initially, I was overjoyed to have finally secured my dream branch. However, reality hit me hard. Being in a peripheral AIIMS, the patient load was minimal, and the experience wasn’t aligned with the vision I had for my future. The long distance from home and departmental challenges added to my struggle.
Brave Decisions Amid Societal Pressure
Once again, I found myself at a crossroads. After much introspection and despite societal pressure, I made the brave decision to leave AIIMS Bilaspur. Many questioned my choices, calling them drastic, but I knew I had to follow my heart.
NEET-PG Preparation: Battling Self-Doubt and Anxiety
With only two months left for NEET-PG, I resumed preparation after a four-month gap. It wasn’t easy. The anxiety was overwhelming, and I faced taunts from relatives who couldn’t understand why I left AIIMS. I battled self-doubt and multiple breakdowns, but with unwavering support from my parents and best friend, I regained my confidence.
Despite the postponement of NEET adding to the uncertainty, I stayed consistent in my efforts.
Victory at Last: Achieving the Dream
My hard work, resilience, and faith paid off when I secured an AIR of 1269 in NEET-PG. In the first round of counselling, I achieved what once felt like a distant dream: a seat in MS Obstetrics and Gynecology at my dream college, Lady Hardinge Medical College.
Reflections and Takeaways
Looking back, my journey was far from easy, but every setback taught me resilience and reinforced my belief in the power of determination. If there’s one message I’d like to share, it’s this:
Never let fear or societal pressure dictate your choices. Stay true to yourself, work hard, and trust the process—your dreams are worth fighting for.
Dr Rubal Garg
MBBS, Pursuing MS
