This year is a bit different for me. I’m in the 3rd year of my science degree, which I only recently admitted is my pre-med study plan. I’m so incredibly lucky that my family is understanding and accepting of this, because I’m working full- time and studying full-time while preparing for the MCAT.
My mum has made me more meals than I like to admit, my sister has responded to more weirdo texts than is ok, and my dad has given more hugs than should be necessary for a 30- something. But yes, I am preparing to apply to medical school this year. I can’t even believe I’m saying that, and I know COVID could continue to push things back, but it’s still exciting and worth a mention.
You’d expect some really intense goals then, right? Studying several hours a day, writing practice MCAT’s, GPA goals, research goals… but honestly, COVID and the potential for having to be separated from my family has put a lot of things in stark perspective for me. So here are my real 2021 goals:
- Spend quality time with my family. Tea on a weekend morning, a surprise afternoon with my mom. A cool drink in the backyard this summer. Not just watching TV in silence, but really talking about things and enjoying each other’s company.
- Love on puppies, friends, family as much as humanly possible. It’s your birthday? I’ll be the first to text you and tell you I love you. Sylvie or Georgia wants love? They get it, even if it’s brief. My sister busy and her lawn needs mowed? I’m doing it. I’m prioritizing being present for those I love.
- Yes, studying. I have a GPA goal and an MCAT goal. I have overall found the competitive nature of people’s attitudes towards med school admissions to be a bit off-putting, so just know I’m working really hard and am going to do my absolute best. I’ll decide later if I want to share my GPA or MCAT results.
- Launching 2 new gardens to support my friends at Operation Friendship for Seniors Society! There will be produce galore. Please join me to volunteer, it’s going to be socially distanced and so fun. The best part is, unlike the HBHouse garden, it’s right in central Edmonton to visit and volunteer. I’m hoping the resident elders will help me name the gardens so I’ll keep you posted! HBHouse garden can’t really be replicated… it is an enigma all to its own and deserves its own legacy.
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