As many of you know, I have been in medical school for the last three years in Texas and am set to graduate in about 2 years from now (crazy right!?). While I’m extremely excited to cross that finish line before starting residency in the near future, I’ve had a few obstacles along the way. This year, I've taken extra year to prepare for board exams, work on my research project, and community initiatives. Since I have been on a reduced clinical course load to make time for these things, I have not been eligible for any federal financial aid. As a result, I have also been working two part-time jobs. While I have done my best to juggle everything, the 8-hour Step 1 exam is one that requires full-time prep of about 60 hours per week without me having to work to cover daily expenses. This is not uncommon - medical students typically take at least 6-8 weeks off from everything to prepare for this exam, as passing is required to graduate and become a physician.

Needless to say, I have had to take longer than these 8 weeks to prepare due to having to work to cover daily living and medical school expenses that are not covered under financial aid or my school’s scholarship and grant opportunities. I plan to finally take this exam within the next month, getting me one step closer to becoming a doctor. While I am still learning all the required molecules, enzymes, and medications, one thing I have learned thus far in my medical education journey is that in order to someday help others - I myself have to ask for help when I need it.

I am raising funds for this upcoming Step 1 board exam and all of its hidden costs: paying for the exam itself ($700), practice exams (each one is $60 - I.know. ugh, so.expensive), travel to the exam, and a preparation step 1 course.

I’m beyond honored to have overcome all that I have to make it to medical school. I will not only be the first physician in my family, but I am the first person to go to college in my immediate family. I hope someday my story can be an inspiration to others in a similar position - those who feel as though higher education and medical careers are not accessible or possible because of their life circumstances. I look forward to achieving this milestone and moving on in my budding medical career to take good care of my future patients.