PROLOGUE: At Long Last, The Journey Begins

As most of you probably know, becoming a doctor has been an aspiration of mine for quite some time. In fact, ever since I officially made the decision to pursue medicine, my life has essentially been devoted entirely to that cause. And now, many years in the making, the day where all of my past efforts come to fruition has finally arrived: on August 16th, 2010, I will finally begin my journey into the realm of medicine. 

A good friend and mentor of mine at the University of Oregon made me assure him that, upon entering OHSU, I would give him frequent updates so that he could "experience medical school vicariously through me". Many others have made similar requests. In fact, people are constantly asking me questions about the process of becoming a doctor. And frankly, with my first medical school class mere days away, I still find my own knowledge on the subject wanting. The fact is that medical school is simply mysterious. And for many, that gives it a certain mystique, causing them to wonder "what the heck are they doing behind those closed doors, and how come I wasn't invited?"

And that, my friends, is where this blog comes in. I stand (sit?) before you today to officially offer you an invitation into my exclusive club. I decided to document my endeavors over the next 4 years so that my friends and family can enjoy the ride right along with me. Unfortunately, I can't promise that I'll have time to update often. I will, however, be sure to hit all the major events, experiences and milestones: clinical rotations, exams, boards, my first stress induced meltdown (likely sometime in the near future), residency applications, the first time I touch a heart (both beating and unbeating), mentors, friends, foes, my first diagnosis, and so on down the list...

So, my avid readers, let us embark together on this journey of discovery. Over the next few years, we shall explore the life of an everyday medical student, slowly uncovering the mysteries that await when one finds himself in pursuit of medicine.