I have been reluctant to post; I wanted to have a fascinating story to share before I did. Oh how I wish I had a medical school acceptance to discuss at this point. A post that would allow you (my reader) to see the fruits of my labor (in a sense of course— fully aware that medical school is its own beast). Instead, however, this post is about how I have moved past my rejections. By what method I have turned my sadness into an opportunity to grow and learn (better yet how I can fix the errors in my medical school application).
When I reflect on why I started this blog, I am reminded and encouraged to post despite my apprehensions. Sharing my story means also sharing those things that may not put me in the best light, those things that show me in my most human form. Obstacles and disappointments can be understood and related by all. If I only discuss my achievements, then I would be doing a disservice to my reader. I would be "painting" a story instead of telling my story. Let’s face it a good or better yet a great story is one that is not predictable.
So here it goes: I have been rejected by a considerable majority of the medical schools I have applied to. I have also received a rejection from a post bacc program, one that gave me the sense I was a shoe in. Considering I was in constant communication with them, this gave me a false sense of security. That rejection had felt the worst of them all—I was at my lowest. That rejection dampened myself-esteem. However, I keep calm and carry on. This non trad is doing what she does best; brushing her shoulders off and wiping away her tears.
As the saying goes "there is no need to cry over spilt milk," after all that does not solve the problem and having to one day be a physician (where my job will be problem solving daily) I need to learn how to roll with the punches and solve the problems that life presents. So with self-reflection I decided to fix what I could about my application that being, my MCAT score. So this time I am keeping what worked last time and changing what didn't this time.
I have started studying with someone (unlike last time— I studied solo) I met on student doctor network (a forum devoted to all things' medical school related) that was in my area that had taken the MCAT before (like me) and was looking for a study partner. So far, she has been a blessing in more ways than one. I cannot stress this enough, being around like-minded people is essential for success. I have also started exercising, which has worked wonders for my stamina and mood (those little endorphins I tell you, pack a mean punch), Last but not least I have started getting back into cooking — because fast food is my biggest enemy.
Overall things are looking up, and I am not giving up anytime soon. Neither should you.
