Questions for someone who is already a doctor?

Hi all,

My name is Jenni and I am new to this forum. I am currently doing undergraduate work (double major - pre-med and psychology). I am going to be a child/forensic psychiatrist, but have a few concerns that kind of sound silly. Any replies would be so greatly appreciated.

Ok..here goes..

1.) I understand that Medical School entails a lot of sacrifices, and I want this more than anything - but I also want a family. Is Med School so demanding that you can't have children, a husband, healthy marraige, etc.?

2.) After Med School, when you are actually a practicing doctor - do you work insane hours? Or will I be able to be at home with my kids sometimes to help with homework, go to conferences, spend general time with them and my husband? It seems, when I think about it, that when I go to see my doctor, they are there basically 9 - 5 and sometimes not even on weekends/holidays, etc. So, once you are out of medical school, is it - in essence - a "normal" job?

3.) This is what I am most worried about, I think. I am a very good student, love learning, and studying. But I have this fear in the back of my mind that I am going to get to this point where I am in a class, and just don't get it. Like I am going to get to a point where I have used my resources (study groups, meeting with professors, etc.) and just NOT get it. If you have this burning desire (which I absolutely do)..is there ever a point where some people "just don't get it." I remember I spoke to a doctor before, and they said that Medical School - in a nutshell - is 75% dedication and 25% brains...if you have the drive, and dedication, is there nothing that's going to stop you...i.e. anyone (who's not completely incompitant) can learn anything?

I know these may sound silly, but I am just getting cold feet I think and need some reassurance!

Thanks guys!

Hope to hear from you soon!

[Meenah]

Welcome,
I am Luanne. My husband has been finished and in private practice for over 15 years. I think the amount of time you spend in the hospital/office depends on your specialty. My husband is a Pulmonologist, he is triple boarded, Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Internal Medicine. He is also in private practice with no partners (he does have arranged coverage with a few other docs). Needless to say, with Critical Care and Pulmonary he is always in the ICU or ER. He probably works at least 15 hours a day and he still LOVES it!!!! With Psychiatry you should have a lot of control over your hours!!! Good luck and hang in there.
Luanne