Abstract: To assess the relationship between lifestyle prior to and after joining medical school, non-academic interests and hobbies on the academic performance of medical students. Background: It is well known that medical students are especially vulnerable to academic stress due to the demanding environment of medical schools, which results in reduction of hobbies and social activities. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among the medical students of the new curriculum of GMCA 2012 at the College of Medicine, King Faisal University. A questionnaire was distributed voluntarily among 142 medical students belonging to the 1st to the 3rd year of this college. Results: The results of the questionnaire were analyzed in detail. It was found that the majority of the students were undertaking less hobbies than they used to do prior to joining the college of medicine. Also, as the students progressed in studying years, the time spent on extracurricular activities and interests became progressively less. Female students were found to be less interested in doing their hobbies than males However, Chi square test revealed that there is no significant relationship between spending time on hobbies in medical school and academic performance. Conclusion: Joining medical school was noted to lead to a major change in lifestyle of the students with sacrifice of hobbies, and recreational activities, especially more among females and those in the higher years. However, the study showed that continuing extracurricular activities has no adverse impact on the grades in medical school. In fact, it is thought that it could act as a stress relaxant and a concentration booster, helping in improved grades and superior academic performance.
Keywords: Hobbies, social life, academic performance, medical students.
Title: Life of a Medical Student in King Faisal University in Al Ahsaa: Role of Hobbies, Social Life and Stress on Academic Performance
Author: Ameera Al Ramadan, Jawaher Al Rashada, Lujain Al Ahmed, Rawan Buhligah, Roaa Buhligha, Sayed Ibrahim Ali
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
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