for my well-being’s sake

Is it worth transferring med schools even without failing grades, just because I can’t cope with the system anymore?

Hi, I’m currently a first-year med student. While I’ve managed to pass all my subjects so far, I can’t shake the feeling that the system in my current med school just isn’t for me.

I’ve been in survival mode the entire year – studying not to learn, but just to comply and pass. I rarely feel like I’ve truly understood anything by heart. The way things are taught here and the overall pace just don’t match the kind of learner I am. I feel like I’m constantly playing catch-up, and I’m worried that in the coming years, the burnout will hit harder, and by then, it might be too late to turn back.

On top of that, I went through some personal stuff this year that really affected my mental and emotional health, which made everything even heavier. (the reasons are in the same institution so seeing them almost everyday doesn’t make my healing any better)

I’m starting to wonder if transferring to a school with a better-fitting system and a new environment might actually help me breathe, reset, and find my rhythm again. I truly want to be a competent and skilled doctor, not just someone who gets by – but someone who truly knows what they’re doing and can serve patients well. And taking into consideration everything, I don’t think my current school can mold me into that.

My concern however is, I’ve heard that my target med school doesn’t credit subjects, so there’s a chance I’ll have to repeat my whole first year. But to be honest, a part of me actually wants to repeat it, because I feel like I didn’t really learn this year anyway. It’s hard to admit, but I feel like I’m just carrying grades, not knowledge.

My parents expressed their support as to whatever decision I will come up with. But I would also want to hear some advices from you guys. Has anyone here transferred med school despite passing your subjects? Was it worth it in the long run?