Introduction Learners who choose medicine as a career choice has become evident since a young age. Their school career, worldviews and in this instance, Christian faith reflects in their aspiration to become a medical doctor, as they prepare to transition from school to university. The aim of this study was to uncover the experiences and meaning of two Christian learners (Grades 11 and 12, and one university Christian student) regarding their choice to become a doctor and how their transitioning process unfolded from school to university (medical school). Methodology A career choice perspective was used to delve into the participants’ memories and their living through experiences. In so doing, the onset of their decision to study medicine – based mainly on their faith, until their current position – was explored and determined. In addition, the participants were also able to express and explicate their medical career trajectory, being mindful of what the pros and cons of the profession hold for them. The method of inquiry included phenomenological reflections on the data gathered from participants through interviews, drawings, essays and field notes. Epoché was strongly adhered to by researchers to prevent contamination of their preconceived ideas. Results The data gathered revealed different aspects of their transitioning experiences and their meanings. Four themes that emerged: Theme 1: What transitioning is and means; Theme 2: Faith and other pulling forces; Theme 3: Career trajectory; Theme 4: Medicine as a career choice. The pulling forces towards a medical career choice (mainly their faith), the transition process, and what their medical trajectories hold for them surfaced strongly. Conclusion In light of projections regarding the current and future shortage of medical doctors, recommendations are offered to make the choice of a medical profession for Christian learners more attractive and realistic and to facilitate the transitioning process during the global crisis, chaos and war.
Nel et al. (2026) studied this question.