I never imagined I would be here in this program right now, but I can tell you this: it continues to be and has been one of the best leaps of faith I have ever taken. I grew up in the lovely state of Georgia, originally from the beautiful city of Savannah. My journey to medicine started from a place of trying to find my deep sense of purpose while in college while also working through the challenges of the loss of a loved one. I had no idea that pivotal event would lead me to finding my purpose in life which would include medicine and now psychiatry, especially since I would be the first person in my family to become a medical doctor. I went on to get a Master’s Degree in Health Administration after needing more time to amplify my medical school application and then attended the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia. I remember as a medical student being open to all the possibilities of medicine as I had no idea what my future would hold. I was unsure what medical field would be the best fit for me but then I found psychiatry. Not only did it resonate with me, but I felt that it would allow me the best opportunity to make the most positive impact on other people’s lives in a way that was alignment with my personality and goals for the future. Once I was led to the field of psychiatry, and more specifically child psychiatry, I then had to think about what the best place for me to train would be where I could be myself. My initial thought was to stay at home to be with my family, as my family is so important to me. Their support, love, and guidance have always meant so much to me and I wanted to be close to home yet had a yearning to try something new. My family as well as many of my mentors encouraged me to spread my wings and apply for great programs around the United States. After conducting as much research as one could, I then came across the MGH/McLean Adult Psychiatry Residency Program which offered a child track for child and adolescent psychiatry (my peak interest at the time). I was then fortunate enough to do an away rotation with the HMS Visiting Clerkship Program at the Lurie Center for Autism, which allowed me to see firsthand the type of professional could one day become after working with some of the greatest and kindest child psychiatrists I had ever had the pleasure of working with. Through their teaching and mentorship, I saw what the “finished product” of this program would lead to, and I felt humbled to know I could one day possibly train in the same program that trained them. Interview season was then upon me and what drew me to the program was not only the reputation and rigor of the training but the faculty and current residents. They all had this vigor, kindness, and excitement about them that drew me to instantly connect with them. They were dedicated and innovative. They were leaders. They respected my faith as a Christian and even had residents I could talk to about opportunities to find churches nearby. I was also introduced to this idea of “never worry alone” which provided me with more reassurance I needed, knowing that I would be 15+ hours away from home in a new place if granted the opportunity to come train here. They noted this saying they had provided a space to share their vulnerabilities with one another that allowed me to feel as though I would have support throughout this arduous, yet beautiful journey of psychiatry.
Now, it has been over a year since I have been a resident in this program. Looking back, I believe this was the best decision. No program is perfect, but I truly believe this program was perfect for me because of the people, opportunities presented, and the life situations that occurred to me while being here that showed me that I never have to worry alone. While I have been here, I have met many new people and learned a great deal of information. I had many moments where I had to encounter personal growth and was guided on ways I could become a better doctor. I encountered the loss of a dear loved one and received the kind of support I will forever in my heart be grateful for. Life happens to all of us, and you never know when that may be. Even though it happened during residency, I am so proud to know my program has been and continues to be there for me not only as a resident trainee but as a friend and a human being. I spent a lot of time praying about where I should go to train and truly felt led to come here. I now see why and am so excited to see what the future holds as I continue to strive to serve others in this incredible and humbling position, working hard to become the best physician I can possibly be.
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