becoming a doctor

The air is thick with the scent of microwaved popcorn and Ramen noodles. The night’s arrival can be seen through the expansive windows, offering a majestic view of the golden leaves swirling above gentle ripples in the water below. A hand gingerly touches the pane of glass, appearing for a moment to will itself into the world of beauty beyond these halls. Against the window, the chill of the late autumn air can be felt, leaving fingertips icy and withdrawn.

The lounge is a melting pot of cultures seeking momentary escape in the commonalities of comrades. Immersed in the thick cushions of purple couches, books lay awry, forgotten for a moment in the laughter that fills the air. But soon, reality beckons once again.

The faces tell stories of exhaustion and determination, swollen eyes and pale faces recounting the expansive stretch of time that has elapsed since the last full night’s sleep. Frustration builds, but the fight is far from over. The night has only just begun.

Eyes meet across the weathered table, and we remember that we are living our dream.