Finding Balance in the Chaos of Pre-Med Life

Dear Newsletter Members,

Now that I’m well into my pre-med journey, I’ve found myself facing some of the most challenging courses yet. This semester is a real test with Physics for Life Sciences and a higher organismal biology course both squeezed into my schedule. If that wasn’t enough, I’m also navigating the stress of finding a job in the medical field to gain the hands-on experience so many of us pre-meds need.

As I’m sure many of you can relate, the pressure has been mounting. From preparing for tough exams to managing my time around work and study, it feels like my stress has reached new heights. It’s a balancing act that isn’t easy to handle, and it often leaves me feeling overwhelmed. If you’re experiencing something similar, know that you’re not alone.

In this chaos, I've been on the lookout for ways to unwind and maintain my mental health. Surprisingly, I found that one of the most relaxing things I do is read. Yes, you read that right – reading for leisure, not just the endless pages of textbooks. Initially, I thought that scrolling on my phone would be enough to relax, but it just didn’t do the trick. My mind would still be racing, thinking of the next thing on my to-do list.

But when I pick up a good book – whether it’s fiction, poetry, or even a magazine – something shifts. For that period, my brain stops overthinking. I’m able to disconnect from the real world, from the stresses of assignments and exams. It's oddly impressive how reading creates a little bubble of calm in the middle of a hectic week. It’s like giving my brain a much-needed break, allowing me to recharge.

In a way, it reminds me of what we’re often told about self-care: it doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. It’s about finding that one thing that works for you and helps you breathe a little easier. For me, it turned out to be reading.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the heavy load of pre-med classes, job searches, or just life in general, consider picking up a book. Even a few pages a day can be enough to slow down your racing thoughts and provide an escape. Give your mind permission to wander into another world, if only for a short time. It might just make the rest of your journey a bit more bearable.

Until next time, take care of yourselves, and may you find your own pockets of peace in the storm that is pre-med life.