Well... I've gotten into medical school and let me tell you... I was wrong. To be clear, I am beyond grateful and excited to be in this position. But what I did not expect was how unsure I still feel. I wanted to talk about it because I cannot possibly be the only one feeling this way (in fact, I know I'm not since one of my best friends is having the same feelings). Here's my experience and please don't hesitate to share yours with me via my "Contact Me" page :)
Today is April 15th which means we are only 15 days away from April 30th, aka the day many schools require you to "Plan to enroll" via the AMCAS website if you wish to attend their school in the fall. The only problem with this is that not all schools have had revisits, given out scholarships, or communicated financial aid information. Hence, the slight tightness in my chest every time I think about how quickly April 30th is approaching.
There is a lot that goes into choosing a medical school including: finances, location, curriculum, match lists, and so much more. It's daunting to think about choosing where you will live for the next four years, especially now since all revisits are virtual due to the current pandemic. So if you find yourself stressed like me, take a deep breath in for eight seconds and let it out for six. I keep trying to remind myself to do this when I find myself overthinking.
Another thing that is keeping me up at night is the prospect of moving to a new city again. For someone who really (and I mean really) hates transitions, medicine was an interesting choice. I truly cannot think of a profession that involves more transitions. We go from high school to undergrad to medical school to residency and then we finally get to settle down (assuming you don't do a fellowship). But here I am. On the path to becoming a doctor. I have 1 transition behind me and many more ahead.
To be completely transparent, I don't have any wise advice on how to cope with the stress of going through a major life transition. But I will say this, if you have gotten to this point - and by that I mean if you have applied to medical school - then you will be okay. I believe the difficulties of the pre-med life and the application process are meant to weed out those who won't be up to the challenge. But if you got here, if you got through OChem and Physics, you can tackle medical school. They wouldn't have let you in if you couldn't.
As of right now I am trying to take this day by day. I'm scared to leave my friends at home for fear of losing touch. I'm scared to leave my boyfriend. I don't know how I'm supposed to find housing or what I'm supposed to do to get ready for medical school. I'm scared to make new friends, live in a new city, and most of all be a medical student. But, I try to remember... I did it all when I went to college and it turned out okay.
Remember to use your support system and talk out your feelings. Do your research so that when you do choose a medical school you are confident it is the right one. And as cheesy as it sounds, believe in yourself.
Well, writing this post helped me calm down A LOT so hopefully it helps anyone who decides to read as well :)
Happy Choosing xoxo
Also fun fact - when I'm stressed I LOVE laying on the floor (I know it's weird but it makes me feel better) - see below for proof
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