One year ago today, I accomplished my BIGGEST dream to date, which was to OFFICIALLY BECOME A DOCTOR! Sitting here thinking, how did this little boy from Jamaica, that then grew up in Toronto and was told that he wouldn’t graduate high school end up living to be the valedictorian of his medical school class and a doctor in the United States? I gotta say God is good, so I had to drop an appreciation post today, for all of the experiences that brought me here, every person in my life that has kept me motivated and grounded and for every encounter to come that will continue to shape my career. Since graduation I’ve been blessed to have begun my career as a resident physician in internal medicine, and though it hasn’t all been easy, it’s been all that I’ve expected it to be. I’m enjoying coming into my own as a physician, finally got used to hearing “Dr. Lewars” and that imposter syndrome has finally hopped out. Today during a patient visit, each word of advice and encouragement related to the reinforcement of treatment plans that came from my mouth felt too natural, and it really hit me, I’m finally and actually doing this. I’ve got a long, long way to go but each day is just a positive step forward. Just to say, one of the best feelings is to know and recognize your purpose. For everyone on their way through their own pursuits to their respective careers and goals, I’m telling you, keep pushing, it’s moments like today that make it start to feel worth it. No matter the hurdles, no matter what the world/society tells you about yourself, or it’s attempts to limit you, keep plugging away at it all, chip away at the layers between you and your goal, and you’ll get there soon enough, don’t quit, don’t hesitate, you got this. Specifically for those about to get into interview season for residency, I’m wishing you the best of luck, go into the season with confidence, trust yourself and all the hard work you’ve done. Remember to review each detail of your application, add in your hobbies, as simple as you may think they are, everything counts in learning about you as a person holistically. #drjaii #doctor #resident #physician #internalmedicine #anniversary