Reasons for career choice and aspirations among undergraduate medical students: A cross-sectional study

Objectives: Medicine is a respected yet demanding profession. The choice to pursue MBBS is shaped by personal passion, financial prospects, and family influence. This study aimed to assess the reasons for choosing MBBS and explore future career aspirations among undergraduate medical students in South Delhi. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 426 MBBS students (batches 2019–2023) at a tertiary care medical college in South Delhi, selected using probability-proportional-to-size (PPS) sampling across five batches. Data were collected using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, motivation for joining MBBS, satisfaction, and career aspirations. Statistical analysis included the chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression (adjusted for age, sex, and socioeconomic status), with significance set at p < 0.05. The 5-point Likert-scale item on fulfillment of expectations was dichotomized for logistic regression analysis, with ratings of 4–5 classified as 'fulfilled' and ratings of 1–3 classified as 'not fulfilled '. Results: Of 426 enrolled students, 388 participated (response rate 91.0%). Most were male (65.5%), aged 20–22 years (54.4%), and from upper-middle-class families (75.5%). The main reasons for choosing MBBS were passion (71.1%) and better income prospects (53.9%), with 76.5% reporting the choice was their own. Just over half (50.3%) reported that the course had fulfilled their expectations, and 73.1% intended to pursue postgraduation, most commonly in General Medicine, Radiodiagnosis, or General Surgery. On univariate analysis, reason for choosing MBBS (own choice vs. not) was significantly associated with fulfilment of expectations (χ 2 =12.47, df=1, p <0.001), as was medium of schooling (χ 2 =3.50, df=1, p= 0.0204); on multivariable logistic regression adjusting for age, sex, and socioeconomic status, neither association remained statistically significant (own choice: adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.45, 95% CI 0.89–2.36, p= 0.13; medium of schooling: adjusted OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.37–3.51, p= 0.82). Conclusion: Most students opted for MBBS out of self-interest and aimed for specialization. Enhancing motivation through career guidance and mentorship may improve satisfaction and confidence among medical undergraduates.