Hello everybody! As I began preparing to depart the United States for the next two years in pursuit of my medical degree, a dream that has been near and dear to my heart for the majority of my life, finding a way to maintain connections with the people whom I will be leaving behind in the States was imperative. Of course, there are methods in which to call, email, send snail mail, etc; however, for those times that such forms of communication are unavailable, keeping a blog seemed like the most logical answer. Additionally, it forces ME to actually take time periodically and reflect on the unique experience I am being afforded instead of letting it pass by. Therefore, here I am.
The countdown to my departure date has begun (73 days!!), and despite it seeming like a long time from now, I know the time I have left in the United States will slip through my fingers. Currently, the tasks of tying all loose ends at work, completing required visa paperwork, purchasing necessary school supplies, deciding what is "necessary" to bring and what can be left for my eventual return to the USA, securing housing, purchasing airline tickets, and paying deposits keeps my mind occupied; however, once all those things are taken care of, I know the reality of me leaving will begin to officially sink in. I would be lying through my teeth if I said I wasn't terrified to completely uproot myself and leave everything I've ever known, but on the same level, when will I ever have this opportunity again? In the long run, what's two years? 24 months with breaks to return home periodically; 24 months to really discover what kind of physician I want to become. Hence, the title of this blog post.
As I was coming up with the idea to write a blog, I reached out for ideas from a few people who have known me for quite some time and know how deep rooted this dream is. In the end, despite still coming up with my own title, I received an incredibly well-developed list of suggestions. One of which I chose as my inaugural post. After determining that the second most common language spoken in Dominica is creole, a great college friend of mine suggested "Yon Dekouvet." This translates to "The Discovery" in creole.
I couldn't think of a better way to begin what will hopefully become the most rewarding (and difficult) discovery of my life, and I thank you all for being a part of it.
Until next time,
Ashleigh
