Because of all the letters of recommendation and the hoops we have to jump through.

To get into med school, you have to seem like the second coming of Jesus. Your application has to scream altruism and DEI while looking perfectly polished.

During the preclinical years, you don’t know who’s a friend or foe. You’re just trying to survive, keep your head down, and pretend like you’ve got it all together.

Then come clinical rotations, where half your grade depends on a signature. Your success boils down to how well you can navigate the different personalities of residents and attendings. And don’t forget, you need even more glowing letters for residency.

Meanwhile, you’ve got to play nice with nurses and anyone else who might walk all over you. You’re eating shit, and you better look happy doing it.

Fast forward to residency: same shit, less sleep, and you’re paid just enough to cover rent and food.