In the last year I have grown in more ways that I could have imagined. I have grown to become a better student, friend, sister, daughter, and most importantly – a better human. Somethings that have contributed to this growth include participating in a humanistic case conference with the Connections program at UC, preparing for and taking the Medical College Admission Test, and learning to appreciate every opportunity to embrace life’s celebrations.
The case conference I participated in with the Connections Dual Admissions program consisted of nine meetings involving discussions surrounding topics in medicine—with an empathetic perspective. Such topics involved potential differences in patients’ lives that could contribute to their personal stories; this experience gave me the opportunity to develop a better understanding for all future people I will encounter as I continue my pursuit of a career in medicine. Hearing stories from nontraditional medical students, patients, and professors has given me a fresh perspective. I feel that I have developed a new reason to look forward to a career in medicine: providing patients with an understanding, compassionate medical provider in myself.
In January 2020 I began studying for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a seven-and-a-half-hour-long entrance exam required for medical school that I took in the beginning of June. This exam has intimidated me beyond belief for the last six months and pushed me to extreme lengths in order to earn my desired score on the test. Preparing for this test has proven to myself that I can balance school, family, and my social life. I am extremely proud of myself for how hard I have worked in this last year to achieve my academic goals.; I have also learned that sometimes I put too much pressure on myself. Learning how to be proud of my accomplishments has proven extremely valuable and has helped me to not hyper fixate on small failures–instead, using such difficulties as opportunities to grow.
Embracing even small celebrations in the last year has been extremely important to me. Following COVID-19, I have learned to appreciate the people in my life to a greater degree as they offer me a support network that allows me to pursue my academic, professional, and personal goals. I recently found out that a friend from high school had suddenly passed away; this has only enhanced my newfound appreciation for small celebrations in life. Whether it be sharing tacos with family or wishing my friend luck as she begins graduate school, I enjoy making the most of the time I have with the people in my life. If not for my strong support network, I would be unable to pursue my rigorous academic and professional goals, and I hope each part of my support team knows how grateful I am to have their encouragement.
I will continue this humanistic growth in the future by ensuring my support network is aware of my gratitude, maintaining an empathetic perspective in life, and working hard to accomplish my academic and professional goals.