That’s right. Becoming a doctor in America is not an easy task.
When I entered medical school in America, I got a huge shock. I realized that everyone in my class is good, and what’s even scarier is that everyone works hard!
In the past, my success in college and lower grades was due to hard work. I always tell myself that “Be diligent and smart” so I always try to do my best. However, what to do when you are already good and still working hard?
And scores in the medical field are compared based on overall academic performance, for example – if more than 50% of the class gets 80%, then 80% will be average, and if you get 79% then you will be below average!
So I felt a lot of pressure.
Not only that, you also have the support of a family who has been working in the medical field in the US for a long time, so you can clearly orient yourself and prepare early for applying to a US medical residency later.
From doing scientific research, to connecting with teachers in the industry, and then preparing for the USMLE early.
It took me a while to realize that I was running an invisible race, with the destination being admission to the US.
And in that fierce race, I realized that relying on my own efforts alone is not enough. I need leverage – the guidance and experience of teachers and seniors – to keep me on the right track, so I don’t get lost, so I don’t give up halfway.
Thanks to that, I was able to have the success I have today. Therefore, I want to use what I know, my own resources and leverage to support Vietnamese doctors and medical students who are also trying every day to reach their dream of becoming a doctor in America.
Because this is not an easy journey. It is exchanged for a lot of sweat and tears, money and youth.
There was a parent who texted me to share that her child had graduated from Medicine in the US, but had registered several times but still could not get in. Now he is mentally depressed and no longer has the fire to try. I’m sorry to hear that. A flame of passion that had not yet had time to shine had gone out. And I’m also very sad because it’s been too long to save, and I can only wish the best things for her in the future.
And you, are you ready to conquer this mountain peak? If you have enough determination, effort, and perseverance, please send a message to your inbox for advice.
Dr. Christina Nguyen
Phonex Medical Academy
