I have always had plans of applying and attending medical school. But I also had plans of starting a family, purchasing my own home, and getting married to my partner. When I was younger, I often thought about a linear timeline that I would have throughout my journey but as I grew older I realized that things don’t always pan out the way that we want them to…and that is okay!
The truth is, medicine is a tough job as a student, resident, and attending. But with support and balance it is all possible. I know people with many different experiences that have made it through this journey. For example, I have friends that entered medical school with families and children while others welcomed cute little ones during our first or second year. I also have met some residents who are amazing at their job but managed to get married to their partners, have children, and purchase their first home all while living up to their full potential.
There isn’t a “timeline” or the “right way” to pursue your personal goals in medicine. It is important to do what makes you happy when you feel like the time is right and let everything else fall into place. So the next time you are questioning yourself, remember that “yes…yes you can do it all.”
