Page 30 - The Early Life and Times of Bob Card

The Challenges of Staying in Medicine

edicine wasn’t for everyone. Of the 48 students who started in my class, many dropped out within a year or so,
Mrealizing it wasn’t their calling. I remember one student from Grimsby who was admitted because he passed
the required nine courses in Grade 13 but didn’t meet the 60% average. He left after a year. Another classmate became
interested in physics after two years, but he faced challenges transferring because some of our premedical courses
weren’t recognized by the physics department. These experiences reinforced my belief that it’s better to pursue a solid
undergraduate degree first before committing to a specific path like medicine. It gives students a stronger foundation and
more time to decide on their future.

Despite the challenges, those who stayed formed a close-knit group. The Meds’ 63 class was small and intimate, which
made the experience even more meaningful. I enjoyed my time there and appreciated the connections we built during
those formative years.
30