Milestone

Wawona Tunnel, Yosemite National Park, May 2010

Well folks, I earned my D.O. degree (yay!), got my temporary state trainee license, and am excited although not quite ready to start my medicine internship later this month. I loved my time as a medical student and am grateful that the commonly referenced image of medical school as tunnel with a light at the end never really resonated with me. In the spirit of optimism, I expect to find internship and residency even more rewarding.

My school organized what some have deemed the most enjoyable graduation ceremony and reception they have ever attended. I had a ton of fun, learned that my mom is an awesome dancer(!), and am grateful to every one of my family members for coming to support me on a night that was so much more important than I imagined it would be. They helped me to recognize that my graduation is a key milestone in my educational journey even though I'll spend at least four more years in training.

I've been away from home for all but a few days during the past two months and am enjoying reacquainting myself with my wonderful little yellow-walled apartment. I'm ready to brush the old leaves from my neglected backyard trampoline so I can put it to good use. I'm also eager to start working my way through 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles of the hospital where I'll spend my internship.

I just returned from nine truly magical days in Costa Rica and will share more about our trip soon! Until then, check out any of 42 Medical Blogs Written Entirely by Medical Students, including mine, over at Medical Insurance Blog. I recognize some of the featured blogs and look forward to finding new favorites.