Ever since I was a young girl I have always aspired to become a medical doctor. Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, I saw family members die due to the poor healthcare system in the country. This made me angry and instilled in me a passion for medicine. My interest in healthcare grew even deeper in ninth grade, after I shadowed a pediatrician at Faith City Hospital in Lagos. I was excited to interact with the patients as I took their vitals and ushered them into the doctor's office. Working in this environment was challenging at first, but I learned how to relate well with nurses by listening attentively and communicating effectively. This experience was sensational and was my first introduction to medicine.
I was thrilled to pursue a career in medicine, but I was a bit hesitant. The school system in Nigeria was getting worse year after year. Universities would go on strike for months and this affected when students graduated. I always dreamed of moving to another country where the school system was well equipped to train me to become a top-notch doctor. I spoke to my dad about this issue but I never imagined that I would leave Nigeria. After I was done with ninth grade, I was surprised when my dad told me I would be going to the United States to further my studies. I believed I now had the chance to become a
…show more content…
My initial thoughts were that my four-year undergraduate experience would be easy. Little did I know that this journey was going to be challenging. After struggling in Biology and Chemistry, I thought I was at the end of my dream of getting into medical school. Throughout my junior year I focused on finishing up the classes for my major and, fearing failing again, I avoided science classes. However, there was a tug in my heart to continue to pursue a career in medicine. It was then I realized that I needed to take measures to