Scientists state that the Grand Canyon took 5 to 6 million years to form through erosion with the Colorado River.

Wow! Imagine being told to delay your journey to medicine by 20, 30, or 40 years. It seems like a lot but the important thing to remember is that there is purpose in the journey. Time is only wasted if you allow it to be wasted.

I learned many things in my 3 going on 4 gap years. I'll share 2 today. The first is you should find balance in your passions and pursue them with excitement. I have learned that there is more to me than my career or profession. There is more I want to do and I do not have to wait until I am retired to start doing it. Little by little I can accomplish a lot. I got to figure out exactly who I want to be, where I want to go, and more.

The second thing is to follow your own timeline. For some that means entering medical school right after college. While for others, it could be a career change. Whatever that path is, make sure it's the right path for you. My timeline included periods of hard work, relaxation, joy, sadness, and everything in between. I made some mistakes, yet I have no regrets on my journey because I followed the path that was best for me. If I had quit for a different path (and I've thought about it), I would always regret it. I think I would rather have tried and failed.

I recognize that I can only speak as a premed student because that is the farthest I've come. My goals & dreams (though I hope they don't) could change when I start medical school, residency, or working. However, I will never regret all the work that I put to get here as it has introduced me to amazing people, helped me understand my purpose, and made me a better person. I have learned so much. I hope the next step is just as eye-opening as the last.