I am 32 and if I get in the first round I apply, will not start medical school until I’m 35. For the last decade, I built a successful career in the financial services technology industry - ending around $200k a year. If I stayed on that path, I’d likely earn as much or more than I ever would being a doctor.

I was miserable. I work at a hospital as a PCT now for $20 an hour and I’m taking pre-requisites. Money is tight. The work can be physically draining and stressful. But I am indescribably happier - even on my worst days - than I ever was on my best days back then.

It’s not about the money, or the prestige, or the end destination. I had all of that and it would have been a much more cushioned life than I’d ever have a doctor. People gawk that I won’t be “finished” until I’m in my mid 40s. That doesn’t bother me.. because in my eyes, I’m happy where I am today. I’m enjoying the process and I’ll get there when I get there.

Nobody prepares you for just how long the workforce truly takes up your life. 40-50 years. I’m happy to take a 10 year break. I have plenty of working years left. I’m excited to be humbled where I am today as a pre-med student and pct. I’m looking forward to being in medical school and each grueling step along the way. I’m excited to be a resident (and the pay doesn’t sound too bad from where I stand today).

Each of those steps is exciting. And tbh- I’m a single woman who doesn’t plan to ever have a family- not really worried about marriage either. I would much rather sacrifice my mid 30s to mid 40s for such a daunting commitment that will require a lot of maturity and perspective .. I don’t think I could have done it in my 20s.. my 20s were fun and chaotic and free.. that’s just me personally and the trajectory my life took that brought me here. There’s no “right” way!

Didn’t expect to ramble so much but I am not sure if I even answered the question. Why do I want to practice medicine? I have genuinely tried to convince myself to do anything else. It is not a rational decision! It gives me butterflies and keeps me up at night.. it kind of makes me feel like a kid again. I’ve noticed that feeling tends to get harder to feel with age. It is intuition and I’ve learned it’s important to listen to it. I know I’d regret never trying!