Do Medical College Students like AIIMS and MAMC Form Friendships Based on Caste?

The dynamics of friendships in medical colleges, particularly prestigious institutions like AIIMS and MAMC (New Delhi Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital), can be multifaceted and influenced by a variety of factors. While some students may form friendships based on caste or community, many bond over shared academic pressures, extracurricular activities, and personal interests.

Shared Academic Experiences Foster Camaraderie

Medical education often provides a unique environment where students face similar challenges and experiences. This shared journey can foster a sense of camaraderie among students. While the extent to which caste influences friendships can vary widely among individuals and specific college environments, many students strive to build diverse friendships that transcend caste and community lines.

Student Perspectives

Several students have shared their experiences about forming friendships in medical colleges:

No. Students coming here are just students. There is no discrimination. We make friends with people we like and obviously not what their cast is.

It all depends on what the other person is like and IT SHOULD BE LIKE THIS EVERYWHERE.

I would like to add many of my friends are SC ST. BUT THAT HARDLY MAKES ANY DIFFERENCE. We have loads of fun and casteism never ever comes in between.

Friendship knows no Boundaries.

Another student, especially regarding MAMC, had a similar perspective:

Yes and no. In mamc I will go more towards yes. For other colleges I dont know much.

Everywhere in most of the institutes people from general category and people from other reservation category have separate groups.

In mamc everyone has burnt midnight oil and it is very much obvious that people with similar level of interest and intelligence will...

This indicates that while some students may find their groups based on caste, the common pressures of studying medicine often lead them to bond with peers who share their academic interests and goals.

Desire for Diverse Friendships

Despite the potential for caste-based divisions, many students aim to form friendships regardless of caste. Here's what another student said:

It depends on the person not on the college/stream he/she is studying in.

Another student shared the view that:

In most colleges, people do not make friends based on caste. We all study and enjoy together without any such inhibitions.

What our views are on caste-based reservation is a different matter altogether but it does not come up while making friends!

Conclusion

In summary, while caste may be a factor for some students in forming friendships, the majority of medical college students, particularly in institutions like AIIMS and MAMC, prioritize building friendships based on shared experiences, interests, and personalities. The desire for diverse friendships and camaraderie is a common thread in the student population.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for those seeking to foster an inclusive and supportive academic environment in medical colleges. By focusing on shared goals and mutual respect, students can work towards overcoming potential barriers and building strong, diverse communities.