27-year-old Doctor Dechen Wangmo

From a difficult childhood to gold medals: The inspiring journey of Dr Dechen Wangmo

Doctor Dechen Wangmo, at just 27 years of age, has achieved what many can only dream of: a medical degree with an extraordinary distinction of nine gold medals from the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) in Sri Lanka.

Her journey from a humble beginning to becoming a celebrated medical graduate serves as an inspiration to countless aspiring doctors.

Dr Dechen is from Pemagatshel, and is the youngest of six siblings in her family. Her late father, a Royal Bodyguard soldier, passed away when she was just 14-years-old. Raised by a single mother alongside five siblings, Dechen’s upbringing was marked by sacrifice and resilience.

Despite the challenges of losing the sole earner in the family, her mother worked tirelessly as a weaver to provide for her children. This atmosphere of hard work and dedication laid the foundation for Dechen’s future ambitions.

“I always wanted to become a doctor,” Dechen recalls, “but as a student with low self-esteem, I thought it was out of my reach.” It was during her formative years at Dechencholing Higher Secondary School and later at Punakha High School that she encountered teachers who recognized her potential and inspired her to dream big. Their encouragement helped her to set her sights on obtaining an MBBS scholarship—a goal that initially felt unattainable.

Dechen’s academic journey was not without hurdles. Transitioning from high school to medical college presented her with a whole new set of challenges. Dr Dechen said, “In high school, I could study everything right before exams and perform well,” she explains. However, the vast syllabus of medicine was overwhelming, and the pressure of examinations began to take a toll on her mental health.

“Learning how to cope with the stress and anxiety of exams was one of my biggest challenges,” she shares. As she navigated the rigorous demands of medical education, she realized the importance of a healthy mindset. Over time, Dechen adopted a new approach: believing in herself and focusing on what she could control. “It gave me immense peace and helped me deal with exam stress,” she states.

Her determination paid off when she was awarded a scholarship funded by the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGOB). This opportunity allowed her to pursue her dream and study in a supportive environment where she could thrive academically.

Dr Dechen’s hard work culminated in an unforgettable night at the General Convocation 2024, where she received an astonishing nine gold medals for her outstanding performance. These awards included recognition for excellence in subjects like Biochemistry, Anatomy, and Pediatrics, as well as the prestigious title of Best Performance in the MBBS Degree Program.

“I feel incredibly joyful; having my family, friends, and teachers cheering for me means even more to me than receiving the medals. Receiving those medals is more than just an achievement, it symbolizes the recognition of all the sacrifices and tears I shed along the way,” she reflects.

For Dechen, the ultimate motivation behind her desire to become a doctor has always been rooted in service. “I learned that a life spent serving others is a life well lived,” she expressed. As she looks toward the future, her goal is clear: to continue her education with a postgraduate specialization in either medicine or surgery.

“I want to be the doctor I have always imagined, one who serves the community,” she says. Dr Dechen is committed to using her skills and knowledge, not just for personal gain, but to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Throughout her journey, Dechen has learned invaluable lessons about resilience and self-belief. “It’s normal to struggle with studies in medicine. The syllabus can be overwhelming, but it’s important to take it one day at a time,” she noted. Her advice to the fellow students emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth rather than comparing oneself to others.

She also learned to let go of things beyond her control. “Resisting change can be stressful. It’s always better to let go and focus on what you can control,” a mindset that brought her peace during challenging times.

Dr Dechen Wangmo’s journey is not just about personal success; it’s also about inspiring others. She hopes to serve as a role model for her juniors, embodying the values of hard work and perseverance. “I want my journey to show that anyone can achieve their dreams with determination and the right mindset,” she emphasizes.

Moreover, she expresses a strong desire to support fellow medical students, offering guidance and assistance to those who seek it. She shared that educating patients will always be her top priority. She believes it’s essential for individuals to understand what’s happening in their bodies.

As she reflects on her accomplishments, her definition of success has evolved. “At one point, success for me was about securing marks and scholarships, but as I grew older, I realized that true success lies in the impact I can have on others.”

Her journey from an introverted, uncertain student to a celebrated medical graduate is a testament to her resilience, hard work, and the power of believing in oneself.

Dr Dechen Wangmo’s story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring medical professionals everywhere, and for that matter, any student pursuing their academic goals, reminding us that with dedication, support, and a commitment to service, anything is possible.

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