Now that the 2006 application cycle's over...

I'm not starting medical school, but I can probably empathize with you (conversely, I'm leaving california for the first time).

I'm sure you'll love the school and surrounding city. Just relax and remember that it is a completely clean slate. Work hard and keep moving forward.
-Dr. P.

 

Hi,

You are right in that medical school is an adjustment on many levels - academically, emotionally, physically, financially. But, with time, you will adjust. You have been accepted because you possess the qualities and dedication necessary for the education, training, and practice of medicine. You will certainly feel overwhelmed, homesick, stressed, and many times even down right sad. But there will also be moments when you will feel incredibly happy and motivated, an almost child-like euphoria in knowing that you are finally on your way to your chosen profession. You will meet many wonderful people as well as some not-so-wonderful people. But that's life. Medical school will teach you more about yourself and the world you're surrounded by. Remember that attending medical school is a choice of yours that has been honored and made possible. Keep a positive attitude and expect to not know everything. Do your research, remain patient, follow a regular work out schedule, and regularly call home for much-needed venting and support from family and friends. First, discovering little things, like the nearest grocery store or Target, will be joyous. Then, cooking your first meal and having classmates over will feel grand. It just takes little steps, and soon you'll be just fine. And when you're feeling particularly overwhelmed, take a break from it and do something that makes you feel happy, whether that's running or downloading music or singing. Don't be so immersed in med school that you let go of loved hobbies and interests. You will need such outlets to keep mentally healthy. And it's really important to remember that you are not the only one who is scared, apprehensive, nervous. Almost everyone else in your class will be too.

 

There is another thread like this in the medical student forum...

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=293649

 

I am kinda nervous also... but if anyone asks, you didn't hear me say that

 

Don't worry too much. You'll be comforted by the fact you will be around tons of other up-tight (former) pre-meds, hopefully some of which are SDNers.

 

are you mainly freaked out because now you'll graduate to the allopathic forums and move on from the preallopathic forums

 

I graduated early to the allopathic forums, and let me tell you that it's a whole different world over there. It's like the rubics cube of forums in its intellectual intensity, but the rewards are great and the women are beautiful (so they say). I can't tell if it's the sex panther's glorious allure of gasoline aroma talking, but I say make the leap of faith to the allo forum, not just for yourself, but also for the those who have gone before and those who will follow.

 

congrats on your usc acceptance!

 

R U sure? It really sucks over there. They just talk about backpacks and whatnot and there are only like 2 posts a day...

 

i'm happy with my ll.bean.... thanks

 

I don't think 35 will be enough...

 

ditto