Decisions

My last post about school said I was waiting to hear from other schools.  Well, I’ve been waitlisted and Wright State and SLU, and accepted at the University of Toledo College of Medicine.  I haven’t completed my University of Cincinnati application because I haven’t sent them a summary of what I’ve been doing while in Ethiopia.  I’ve decided I’m not going to continue my application with them.

After a lot of thinking, soul searching, and talking with friends and family, I have decided to attend the University of Toledo College of Medicine.  I’ve come to realize that 1) I really do want to be close to home 2) it will be nice to save tens of thousands of dollars 3) I really would be happy at UTCOM.  I was really set on UC several months ago, but mainly because I know it’s a competitive institution.  However, what medical school isn’t competitive?  UC’s curriculum would be very difficult for me, especially having taken 2 years off science.  The UC courses are set up so you take 5 different classes at once (like in undergrad).  However, UTCOM uses the block system where you’re only studying one subject at a time.  From my experience with OChem, I know this is the best way for me to learn.  Also, everyone that I know who goes to UTCOM is very happy – and they’re people like me.  Why should I fit myself to a mold?  Why not go to the school that is the best fit for me?  Duh, Jasmin.

So there you have it, folks.  I will not be waiting on waitlists this year.  I am attending the University of Toledo College of Medicine, Class of 2014!

Another reason why I wanted to make this decision now instead of waiting on a waitlist is because I’m really tired of putting my life on hold and not being in control of it.  I’d rather finally move on (after over a year) and start planning things.  Now I can plan my budget for my first year of medical school, I can find an apartment (which I have!), and I can begin networking at UTCOM.  I just read a personal finance article (thanks, Val!) that really helped put everything even more into perspective for me.  I’m very excited to start this new chapter of my life.  I’m also excited to be coming home soon.  But really, it’s just under 4 months…that’s still a long time.

If anyone is thinking about getting me UT/UTCOM apparel, please think again!  I have so many t-shirts, sweatshirts, and sweatpants – I would appreciate something else instead!  Maybe make a donation to a charity in my name, or you can buy me something practical for my first apartment.  J