One of the most difficult decisions any premedical student faces is whether or not he or she is really prepared for medical school. I once shared this exact sentiment, and as my first year of medical school is under way, I am STILL fraught with it—along with excitement, ambition, and caution. I decided to share my experience and that of a few of my classmates with you to ease your wonder of what to expect going into medical school. First, to give you a small introduction, I must tell you that I am a nontraditional student, which means that I did not immediately segue from undergrad to medical school. However, I did have the option to enter medical school following undergrad, but lets suffice it to say that I decided to “take back” some of my 20s and youth before I signed my life away. The decision to take some time off from school actually imbued me with a greater self-awareness, more resolve, and a keener focus. So for those of you considering it, PLEASE do what your gut tells you!!!!!
Hopefully, the ensuing writings will be riveting and exciting. As a caveat, this is my first undertaking of this nature, so PLEASE be patient!!! I have to try to balance this blog and some stellar grades, so my schedule will be pretty tight. So, I have included a few topics that I think we all will question during this journey. Finances and money management is paramount, and since I am not the aficionado of the area (at all), I will pool as many resources and pluck as many brains to get that to you (and me!!). For those of you with families, who would like to start a family, engaged, dating, or who would like to find that perfect person (good luck with that one!), the section entitled Q.T. (quality time) is just for you. Others may be wondering if any free time exists, how to make some time, and how you could possibly balance the rigors of medical school while simultaneously maintaining your social network (beyond Facebook I hope!) For you, I give the section lifeStyle to. Lastly, Operation Year One will give an intimate view of stories throughout our first year. We know that every curriculum is not the same nor are the dynamics of every school, but we all will probably share the same stress-filled sentiments throughout the year.
Whether or not you are just beginning college or currently filling out AMCAS, hopefully this blog will offer you what you have been dreaming of since the first Grey’s Anatomy episode that you watched and decided you wanted to be a doctor and even leave you brimming with wayyyyy more alacrity than before. As for me, lets just say that I will be living on a prayer. I am anticipating and dreading late nights and early mornings, tons of caramel macchiatos (my drink of choice), a lot of laughing, definitely some crying, increased cortisol levels, medical words and body parts I never dreamt of, and everything else that is accommodating during this hike to residency. Until then, we will be taking a bevy of exams, visiting a few exam rooms, and who can forget the life deciding boards!!! With all of this being said, PLEASE leave comments and ask questions so that the blog can become better, and so that I can make certain you get EVERYTHING you CRAVE to know!!!
With utmost appreciation,
Best wishes on your endeavors,
Student Dr. Glawson!
