Hi, I would be very interested in your input.
Two years ago I decided to go pre-med as a rising sophomore in college. I tried my best and aced my biology classes though struggled with chemistry and physics, ultimately earning a cGPA of 3.45 and scGPA of 3.21. Graduating from college I knew getting into medical school would not be easy but I felt motivated.
Now after four months of scribing at an ER, I have started to seriously consider becoming a PA. However my reasons dont seem to line up with other people that chose the profession over MD/DO. I am still in my early 20s, I am not eager to start a family anytime soon, the idea of spending 7 more years in school is not a huge turn-off. My reasons are a little different and include:
- I like the security of working under a higher professional who knows more than me and can check my work. Though I like my independence, I do not naturally pursue leadership.
- I am reluctant to work any job that will take over my life. I want time to date, have a social life, and pursue hobbies. I am also close to my immediate family and fear that I wont be able to see them enough.
-- Though I cant deny the income of a doctor is appealing, I am not strongly motivated by money. I consider myself a minimalist and can live happily without many luxuries.
-I have no doctors in the family, no close family in health care, nor is anyone is my family particularly affluent. I am concerned that becoming a doctor will alienate me from my family.
- Lastly, I have a history of depression/anxiety. Though I have been able to control it for the last few years, I am afraid the long, sleep-depriving haul of medical school and residency might bring it out and get the best of me.
Despite these doubts, I am starting at MCAT class next week. I plan on going and taking the test regardless though I cant help to think that medicine is not right for me. I would really like to hear from anyone else on the brink of ending their medical aspirations and considering another field in or out of medicine.