Everyone has a dream, a goal, an aspiration they wish to fulfill in life. There's always something that pulls at our heartstrings, the reason why we get out of bed in the morning. Why are we doing what we're doing? What's the reason for going through an immense amount of obstacles to reach this goal? Will it even pay off in the end?
No matter if it pays off or not, you know that what you're doing is for a legitamate reason. If it doesn't end up working out at first, you will keep going for it. If you could wake up the next day and go through all the obstacles and struggles of the previous day with a smile on your face, that's when you know you will never give up this aspiration.
Ever since I was a child, I've always had a dream of using the resources and energy I have to help others. Seeing a smile on someone else's face because of something small I may have done, such as helping an elderly person out of their chair or holding a door open for the person behind me has always made me feel innerly content. It seems as if I've found contentment in the happiness of others.
Maybe this was why I thought medicine was the field for me. Seeing someone cured after a terrible illness or disease, feeling absolutely ecstatic and happy, was something you didn't see every day. It brought joy to my heart.
Taking steps towards a career in medicine, however, sometimes feels like climbing a mountain without feet. The amount of obstacles to cross seems never ending. The sleepless nights, gigantic amounts of homework, hands-on experience at hospitals and clinics, and ability to find time to still live a life seems like a lot to have on your plate at once. But some (like me) find that having a lot on your plate at once can be exciting. It keeps you busy, focused, and leaves little time for distractions.
In this day and age, a career in the medicine field requires much more than good grades. Many graduate schools look for hands on experience, such as shadowing a health care professional (following them around and viewing a day through their eyes) or volunteering your time outside of class. Personally, I wanted more than that. I began to work as a "scribe," or someone who does all the doc's paperwork. Working in the emergency room at a local hospital has opened my eyes. At first, it seemed extremely daunting and burdensome to complete many charts in a short span of time, but working in the ER has taught me many lessons beyond fast typing.
It has taught me to be resilient; after making a mistake on a chart or forgetting to tell the doctor about something, being given constructive criticism or getting scolded actually has molded me into a stronger figure. Seeing sick, injured and frightened patients entering the ER hurt, afraid and confused has not only made my passion to help others stronger, but has made me more thankful for the things I take for granted - happiness, health, and stability. Watching sickly individuals be reassured by healthcare professionals, whether it be a doctor, nurse, or therapist makes me feel at ease - the light I see in their eyes makes me feel content. All of these are a myriad of experiences that not everyone can experience firsthand.
Personally, I believe in hands on experience far beyond the classroom. The life lessons you learn when pushed into situations outside your comfort zone are far more valuable than the lessons learned on the classroom blackboard. These are what help mold you into who you are today.
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Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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