For as long as I can remember, my dad has been sick and unhealthy. And for as long as I can remember, I have been taking care of him (along with my brother and mom). It has literally taken a team to keep him alive, I don’t even know how many doctors he has trying to help him get better. I have a lot of childhood memories that are surrounded around my dad or in hospitals. Growing up like that and still being in the same situation today, have affirmed my decision to never go into healthcare. I just can’t do it anymore. For some, their personal experiences with stuff like this might be what is driving them to go into healthcare. But for me, being around hospitals, doctors' offices, and emergency rooms my whole life, it’s taken a toll on my mental health. I just know that healthcare is not in my best interest.

I go to a college where 38 percent of its population is studying to be in the healthcare or a related industry (according to U.S. News) so most of my friends are going to be nurses, occupational therapists, or athletic trainers. For example, nine out of the 11 girls I am living with next year are nursing majors. I cannot be more proud of them. They are working their asses off and paying all of this money to go to school just so they can help people for the rest of their lives. While I have a major that is not as vigorous or time consuming with school work and studying, my friends with healthcare majors are always studying for exams, practicals, or just studying because they know they have to.

A lot of people are driven by money, so they pick a college major accordingly. But never have I ever heard any of my healthcare friends say they picked their major because of the salary they could potentially receive. When we talk about why they want to be a (nurse, occupational therapist, athletic trainer, etc.) they talk about how they have a passion for helping people, and they want to make a difference in the world. They know they are going to have to deal with some pretty harsh things during their job, but they do it anyways because they care.

People in the healthcare professions are there for people on the best days of their lives, as well as the worst, and everything in between. Between births, deaths, accidents, and difficult recoveries, nurses are there, doing everything in their power to help.

I had no idea what occupational therapy was until I got to college, and in case you are in the same boat as I was, here’s a definition: Occupational therapists use special equipment to help children with developmental disabilities. Occupational therapists treat injured, ill, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working (Bureau of Labor Statistics). I can’t imagine having to relearn daily tasks, let alone helping someone do it. I couldn’t do it. No matter how hard the days get or how tiring their job is, occupational therapists want to help those who need it.

Being someone who was on the receiving end of the care of healthcare professions many many times, I want to say thank you to all of the doctors, surgeons, nurses, and all other healthcare professionals out there. You are special people and make hard times better. I don’t have the words to express my appreciation for all of you.

And to all of my friends who are studying to be in the industry, keep up the good work. It might suck now but once you are out in the world, touching lives, and making a difference, it will all be worth it. I’m so proud of you.