The medical profession is one of the most demanding — and at the same time, one of the most conscious career choices.
Students rarely enter medical school by chance. The path to medicine usually begins long before the first entrance exam, shaped by personal character, interests, school preparation, and gradual inner maturity.
Today, we share the story of our graduate Dasha K., a student of the Faculty of Fundamental Medicine at Lomonosov Moscow State University.
Her journey is a clear example of how a childhood dream evolves into a goal — and how that goal becomes a well-structured educational pathway.
“I knew from childhood that I wanted to become a doctor”
The first steps toward medicine
Dasha never doubted her professional choice:
“From a very young age, I knew that I wanted to become a doctor and worked toward this goal.”
Early awareness is a common trait among future medical students. Children drawn to medicine often show a natural interest in how the human body works, ask scientific questions, enjoy observation, and like to explore.
By her senior school years, Dasha was fully confident that medicine was her path.
Why Moscow State University?
Not only medicine, but science
Choosing a university was not easy — Dasha considered both the First Medical University and Moscow State University.
“I spent a long time choosing between the First Medical University and MSU. I chose MSU because it offers internship opportunities in China and includes many interesting subjects that are not directly related to medicine.”
For future doctors, a broad scientific outlook is essential — and MSU provides exactly that.
Dasha also highlights an important academic advantage:
“Our programme is research-oriented, which is why we study for seven years instead of six.”
This means a deeper level of training, focused on scientific research and real-world medicine.
How school supported this journey
Dasha recalls her time at Russian International School with warmth and gratitude, especially for the subjects that became foundational:
“My chemistry and biology teacher pushed me very hard — which is why I feel confident in university classes now and understand the material clearly.”
A strong background in natural sciences is the cornerstone of medical education.
English also played a significant role:
“We studied medical English. Because of my school background, my university professor noticed my level right away — now I consistently achieve top results in class.”
This is a clear example of how a bilingual environment and international programmes support students even in areas parents may not initially expect — such as medical terminology and academic English.
RIS • Graduates
Where RIS Graduates Continue Their Education
Every year, graduates of Russian International School are admitted to leading universities in Russia and around the world.
We regularly publish detailed admissions results and academic achievements of our graduates.
Preparation for medicine is traditionally built around three core disciplines:
Biology
Chemistry
Russian language (as an examination subject)
“Biology, chemistry, and Russian were the key exams for me.”
Strong school preparation significantly reduces stress during the first year and allows students to engage in the academic process from the very beginning.
First-year challenges: an honest perspective
Even the best-prepared first-year students face a difficult adaptation period. Dasha speaks openly about this:
“During the first week, when I saw the workload and expectations, I felt overwhelmed. We study six days a week and often until 7 p.m.”
Moments like these reveal the importance of inner motivation:
“You have to pull yourself together and push through the ‘I can’t’ and ‘I don’t want to’ to reach what you’ve been working toward for so long.”
A supportive environment also plays a crucial role:
“I found my group of classmates — we stayed after classes and studied together.”
Impressions of medical studies
Most medical students describe their studies as both challenging and fascinating — and Dasha agrees:
“I really enjoy it. The professors are excellent. Classes are intense but incredibly engaging.”
This balance reflects the true nature of medical education:
high workload, high standards, and deep involvement.
Dasha’s advice to current RIS students
“Don’t give up. If you truly understand what you want to do, invest as much effort as possible to achieve success.”
This advice applies to all students — but especially to those considering medicine.
The most important school skills for future doctors
Future physicians need many qualities: logic, discipline, and attentiveness.
Dasha highlights two skills in particular:
“The ability to communicate with people and perseverance.”
Communication is the foundation of medical practice.
Perseverance is the foundation of medical education.
Both skills are developed gradually at school — through projects, interaction with teachers, bilingual learning, science classes, and an active school environment.
How can you tell if medicine is truly your calling?
Insights from Dasha’s story
Dasha’s journey shows that the desire to become a doctor is shaped by several key indicators:
Early interest in biology and the human body
Curiosity about how living systems function, a love for biology and chemistry, and a desire to understand processes at a deeper level.
Readiness for a high academic workload
Medical education is a marathon — long hours, large volumes of information, and continuous practice.
Interest in research and observation
Medicine is not only about helping people, but also about scientific inquiry and analysis.
Strong communication skills
A doctor must be able to listen, explain, and support patients effectively.
Commitment to long-term learning
Medicine requires years of disciplined, thoughtful study — depth matters more than quick results.
At Russian International School, we place strong emphasis on career guidance and individual educational pathways.
Every November, our students participate in career orientation sessions with tutors and teachers to analyse their interests, strengths, and future directions — building a solid foundation for senior-school preparation.
We have previously published a detailed guide “When Should You Start Preparing for University Admissions?”, which explains how to structure the admissions journey and take important steps on time.
RIS • About the School
Would you like to learn more about the RIS philosophy?
At Russian International School, we combine international educational standards with strong Russian academic traditions
to create an environment where children grow confidently, harmoniously, and with a genuine interest in learning.