2 answers
Madison
Student
Linden, New Jersey
2
Questions
Asked
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How not to get discouraged?
I am a high school senior planning to do the Pre-Med track. However, it’s a lot of school and many years before I become a surgeon which is my dream job.
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2 answers
Brett Schlifstein
Anesthesiologist
42
Answers
Pittsboro, North Carolina
Updated
Brett’s Answer
Hi Madison,
I agree, it is a long and difficult road to get where you want. I certainly had my doubts along the way. The good news is that you can have a joyful journey, and that the rewards at the end are great. You will be surrounded by lots of people in the same situation, and can lean on each other for support. I've been in practice for 30 plus years, and still love what I do.
If I could give advice to my younger self, I would say to have a better study/life balance. I was very focused during medical school, and abstained from many social interactions to concentrate on my studies. Although lots of study time is needed, I probably would have been happier, and maybe even performed better, if I had taken more time to spend with family and friends, and recharge my batteries once in a while.
So my advice is to keep up the hard work, but also remember to take care of yourself - it is truly a balance. If being a surgeon is truly your dream job, it will be worth the journey. That being said, being a surgeon may not be what you have envisioned. There is no shame in changing your mind. This is something you will be doing for the rest of your career, so choose wisely!
Hope that is helpful, and good luck!
Brett Schlifstein, M.D.
Anesthesia Director
ECU Health Roanoke Chowan Hospital
I agree, it is a long and difficult road to get where you want. I certainly had my doubts along the way. The good news is that you can have a joyful journey, and that the rewards at the end are great. You will be surrounded by lots of people in the same situation, and can lean on each other for support. I've been in practice for 30 plus years, and still love what I do.
If I could give advice to my younger self, I would say to have a better study/life balance. I was very focused during medical school, and abstained from many social interactions to concentrate on my studies. Although lots of study time is needed, I probably would have been happier, and maybe even performed better, if I had taken more time to spend with family and friends, and recharge my batteries once in a while.
So my advice is to keep up the hard work, but also remember to take care of yourself - it is truly a balance. If being a surgeon is truly your dream job, it will be worth the journey. That being said, being a surgeon may not be what you have envisioned. There is no shame in changing your mind. This is something you will be doing for the rest of your career, so choose wisely!
Hope that is helpful, and good luck!
Brett Schlifstein, M.D.
Anesthesia Director
ECU Health Roanoke Chowan Hospital
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
480
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
This is a terrific question, Madison, and I commend you for your aspirations. It may help to break down the journey into smaller pieces. For example, focus now on getting into college and completing high school. Then focus on getting ready for your first year and accessing pre-med counseling on campus. You get the point. Breaking it down makes it less overwhelming.
Also, be kind to yourself along the way. Pay attention to your physical and mental health and seek support as needed. There is no shame in seeking support. We all need it from time to time.
Wishing you good luck!
Also, be kind to yourself along the way. Pay attention to your physical and mental health and seek support as needed. There is no shame in seeking support. We all need it from time to time.
Wishing you good luck!