It was three years ago when I decided to pursue a career in medicine and declared a biology major. Every time someone asks me what my major is, and I answer biology with a minor in chemistry, I get the "damn, your life sucks a lot." They usually squint their eyes, bite their teeth down and shake their head like you are crazy. Yeah, I am crazy spending my nights at the library memorizing IUPAC names, amino acids, the excitation-contraction cycle of a muscle, etc. It is tough and hard having to pull a plethora of all-nighters throughout the semester to only feel comfortable for my upcoming biochem and OChem exams, but it is worth it. Now, before you are quick to judge me as the nerdy kid who carries 10 books in his backpack, makes science jokes to his friends, highlights an entire chapter on animal diversity...you're probably right, but there is more to the story. I do pull a few all-nighters at the library and study 'til my brain pops, but I actually have this thing called a life! It's crazy, right? Let me tell you about it.

I have been very successful as a biology major so far, and have a high enough GPA to get into med school hopefully here in Texas. I must study really hard and make no time for friends and socializing, right?

I am actually in a fraternity, actively involved not just in my chapter, but in Greek Life. Why make the time for this? I knew coming into school that getting into med school would require not just an advanced IQ and 60 hours a week with a book in my face, but I actually need to socialize, make friends and connections, and network. This requires getting out of your comfort zone and taking risks, which goes back to me rushing in the first place. I already have a brother accepted into UTHSC in San Antonio, and hopefully, I can connect with him and achieve the same thing.

I spend the weekdays studying and devoting my time to school, but on the weekends...watch out! I am always at Fry, at a party, and continuing to meet people! This is important for me because studying can be exhausting! My fellow science majors can testify! Blowing off a little steam over a beer with your bud, or going on a date with a lovely young lady can be very satisfying and keep everything in perspective!

One thing I never let get the best of me is knowing that I cannot do it on my own. My brothers hold me accountable with my grades and my study habits, my friends provide me with support with a good luck text or two just hours before the big test, and my family gives me the love and support to continue doing what I love. Brothers, friends and family keep me going and help me through the tough and tedious science classes. If I got to med school, but did not have this support system in my life that I attained with the three years I have attending UNT, there would be no point. Love and the people you surround yourself with in life are the most important thing, and allowing them to help you is the way to achieve your dreams! Science majors can all relate, and if you feel that you have to be antisocial and be a "study-holic" in the basement of Willis, save it for those few years in medical school my friend!