I often think back to a call room during my 24-hour surgery call. The room was a cramped space with furniture from every decade since the ‘70s haphazardly shoved together. It was around 2 am, and I had about an hour to sleep. As I lay on the double bunk, I began to think of all the students who had come into that room. Literally, thousands of other clueless medical students, like myself, had passed this test. If they could do it, so could I, and so can you. I promise you that whatever you are going through, realize that someone has been through it before and trust that you can do it now.
Now, I will not diminish the challenges that face our current health care system. A pandemic, political division, and decreased public trust pose their challenges. Yet, I have seen how my classmates, mentors, and friends have stepped up. They have battled through personal health challenges; they have faced divorce, cancer, death, and loss with grace and strength that could be nothing less than inspiring. I have seen them comfort each other and commit to positive change. I feel that the best days are ahead because I am surrounded by some of the best people I have ever met.
Rely on your friends and colleagues. They will always be there for you.