I met in endodontist recently and we were talking about dental school. He graduated from Ohio State and finished in the top 15% of his class. To top that off, he worked FULL TIME (36 hours) a week during school. I was shocked and told him that was unbelievable.
This is what he told me:
Endodontist: "You know, I came from nothing. I had no money what so ever, and my parents wouldn't pay a dime for my schooling. So I had to work my *** off to be where I am." (OWNS 5 offices now and is one of the most respected endodontists in AZ.)
Me: "Geez, that is incredible. How did you manage everything?"
Endodontist: "Time management, discipline, physical and mental strength."
Me: "That's really inspirational."
Endodontist: "Let me tell you something, America is such an easy country to become successful, you just have to want it. It sickens me when people say they can't work because they are too busy and they always have excuses. You have to want it and work for it, don't just expect everything is going to be handed to you just like that. You have potential, make sure you seek it." (OF COURSE THIS situation varies from person to person)
Me: "I promise, I will. Thanks for all the information, that was very helpful."
Endodontist: "Sure no problem, do you want to assist me on an apico?"
Me: "Let's do it!"
The moral of this conversation is to do what you can do. Everyone is different, and it all depends on your work ethic. Personally, I value the philosophy of a well-rounded individual. To me that means, a person who gets EXCELLENT grades, stays healthy, works, loves and cares for others, sentimental, etc. Do what you want to do, and see where it takes you. If it doesn't work out, then at least you tried.
-GOOD LUCK!