Some updates since I have been MIA for a while!
Year one ended on a high note, I had a relaxing Summer break, and then Year two started. We have been going for the last few months and it has been nonstop. Somehow, we are almost done with the Spring semester and will start dedicated exam study time soon… The days are often long, but the weeks/months are short.
In these pre-clinical years, I’ve learned so much about medicine, but especially about myself
1. Microbiology is one of my favorite things, which is not surprising because the microbiome is so cool, especially in the gut :')
2. I need to live more in the moment, rather than waiting for the future
3. I have some of the best friends and supporters
I have had weeks that are mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing just like anyone else may have. However, I have also experienced support from friends who helped me study, quizzed me and fed me. So often we think that we are in this journey of life alone and that puts a lot of pressure on us to hold everything together-which I usually am good at like my type A self. However, when we rely on our community and our loved ones, we are stronger and more resilient. I am reminded of a scripture that says two are better than one, for when one falls, the other lifts them up. I have not experienced this in my life as much as I did these last few months.
In the upcoming season, I will be seeing patients, validating their concerns, and helping treat them to the best of my abilities. This is everything I have been working towards and I am so excited for the ways that I will be able to impact the lives of others.
Reflecting on the last few months I realized that WOW I have travelled a lot in 2022. 2023 is going to be the same because I now feel the need to be in the moment. Some travels were for relaxing, not listed, and others (Sacramento, Washington DC, Chicago, Boston, and Honolulu) were for advocacy and health policy.
Going into medical school, I was interested in health policy, but had no idea how to accomplish this. Through my advocacy work and my various leadership positions, I have been grateful to have opportunities to represent the student voice alongside physicians and legislators in important discussions.
For now, I will be continuing to prepare for the first of many licensing exams and for clerkships. Also, continuing to work on my Master's program curriculum. I am also reminding myself that younger me would be so proud of how far I have come. I am working on being present, investing in relationships with others and pursuing my hobbies. I hope that you all can do the same to make life so much more abundant.
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