Dr.Aqib Zaman

One year ago, I walked into residency with uncertainty, a lot to learn, and a determination to grow. Today, I’m grateful to begin my journey as a second-year Internal Medicine resident.

Every long call, every challenging patient, every sleepless night, and every lesson has shaped me into a better physician. There is still so much to learn.

Here’s to another year of growth, resilience, compassion, and becoming the doctor my patients deserve.

Alhamdulillah for every step of this journey. One day at a time. 🤍

Picture from 2014, china.
Looking back at this picture, I see a young man carrying countless dreams, hopes, and uncertainties. I came to China with one goal—to become a doctor. At that time, I had no idea what life had planned for me. My biggest concern was simply finishing medical school and returning to Pakistan to clear the PMDC licensing exam. The USMLE wasn’t even on my radar.

As they say, everything happens for a reason.

When I returned to Pakistan in 2019, things were far from easy. Like many foreign medical graduates (FMGs), I found myself caught in the uncertainty created by constant regulatory changes—from PMDC to PMC, and then back to PMDC. The political instability and inconsistent policies cost many FMGs valuable time, created frustration, and left countless careers in limbo.

But sometimes, what feels like a setback becomes the beginning of a new journey. For many of us, those difficult years forced us to think differently, explore new opportunities, and redefine our future.

One thing I’ve learned is to always trust Allah’s plan. We often worry about the path ahead, but Allah knows what is best for us. Always thank Allah for what you have, be proud of where you are today, and never forget how far you’ve come. Every struggle, every delay, and every challenge has played a role in shaping the person you are becoming.

Alhamdulillah for everything. The journey continues…

This is me One year ago today, on July 1st, I walked into the hospital as a brand-new Internal Medicine resident.

I still remember the excitement, the uncertainty, and the weight of responsibility that came with wearing that white coat. Like every new resident, I wondered if I was truly ready for what lay ahead.

Over the past year, I’ve learned that residency isn’t just about mastering medicine. It’s about learning humility, building resilience, making difficult decisions, celebrating small victories, and finding strength during the toughest days. Every patient has been a teacher, every challenge an opportunity to grow, and every mentor and colleague a reminder that medicine is a team effort.

To everyone starting residency today: congratulations. You have earned this moment. There will be days when you question yourself, but don’t let those moments define you. Keep showing up, keep learning, ask questions, support one another, and never lose sight of the privilege of caring for another human being.

One year from now, you’ll look back and realize how much you’ve grown—not only as a physician, but as a person.

Here’s to the next generation of doctors. Welcome to one of the most challenging and rewarding journeys of your life.

Happy July 1st, and welcome to residency. 🩺❤️