Being the youngest to complete FCPS in ophthalmology, I could start my career as a specialist very early. After completing internship in 2002, I decided to do post graduation in ophthalmology and passed FCPS in July of 2005. The training period for FCPS was set for 4 years, after I passed it. I was the Registrar in Dhaka Medical college at first. Then, from 2007 to 2010, I worked as assistant professor. I used to teach MBBS students, and at the same time, study for my FRCS. In 2011, I completed FRCS from Glasgow. I took part in a training on Retina, in India for 1.5 years, and came back in 2012. This was the turning point of my career. Thus, not only eye, I'm the specialist of the most critical layer of eye - retina. Hence, many specialists used to refer patients with problems in retina, to me, which was a matter of great respect.
But the reason behind my decision of specialising in
ophthalmology, was my father's inspiration. My father, Professor Hassan Shahid, was the head of the department of ophthalmology in Bangladesh Medical college. I used to look up to him from my childhood. When I was in MBBS, I was quite sure that I would go for ophthalmology. I never found surgery or medicine, as interesting as ophthalmology. Those who are in MBBS now, they should aim for a speciality from this level, and strive to fulfill their dream bit by bit, every day.
I really enjoyed my medical life. Since I always indulged myself in cultural activities, it was difficult for me to remain regular in studies, and had pending items. I used to host most of the cultural programs held at college. I got prize for acting, and recitation. But nonetheless, I used to clear all my exams in time and sit for prof. During the time of prof, we used to study the whole night and sleep the whole day. After passing the second prof, my roommates and I, celebrated the whole night and had campfire. We were sent to India for study tour from the college. We traveled by train to Kolkata, Delhi, Jaipur, Manali and many other places. It was a memorable experience in my whole medical life.
