Thinking about the first Canadian women physicians, it’s amazing to see how the field of medicine has advanced to become so much more inclusive. I feel grateful to those women that blazed a trail such that women in medicine are now expected and welcomed, not frowned upon as they were back in the early days. I am honoured to be a part of this lineage, and to one day practice amongst so many other motivated, strong, and intelligent women. I see how the women around me are innovating and giving back to the field of medicine through research, ideas, and compassion, and it inspires me to work harder, study longer, and become a better future physician.
The path that leads to a career in medicine is challenging to say the least, but if it lights your soul on fire, then absolutely you need to pursue it. Enjoy the challenge, enjoy the opportunity to push yourself towards a goal, even if it feels, at some times, impossible. Every part of the experience has meaning, and everything you do to improve your application, your test scores, or your extracurricular activities, is all contributing to shaping you into the future medical professional that your patients need. The chance to passionately pursue the career of your dreams is a gift; enjoy the pursuit, and enjoy the challenge.