As college seniors, many of us enter the working world with bright eyes, fresh energy, and a commitment to make the world a better place. We have learned about the social drivers of health, health disparities, and the US healthcare system during our undergraduate courses. Maybe some of us have even experienced these things throughout our own lives or in our communities. Regardless, we have a wealth of theoretical knowledge and a passion for health equity.

Despite this, until graduation, I personally had not yet had the chance to apply that knowledge to make change for real people. A gap year with the National Health Corps has an opportunity for me to do just that - to take what I had learned throughout my undergraduate career and the things I am passionate about to impact sustainable, realistic change in communities. There are a wealth of meaningful reasons to engage with the National Health Corps through a gap year, sustaining meaningful change being one of the most poignant.

Reflect on the Impact You Want to Have in Your Career

Whether or not you may be pursuing further education after your service year, a service year is also a fantastic opportunity to experience moments that help you to reflect on the impact you want to make in your career. My service year has given me further clarity on the impact I want to have as a provider. By having the chance to work in a community-based clinical setting, I have seen the positive impact of sustained connections on patients and community members, and hope to pursue similar connections in my career.

Stepping Outside of Your Comfort Zone for Personal and Professional Growth

Whatever your professional plans may be, stepping outside your comfort zone will be extremely important. Professionally, throughout this year, I have had the chance to practice taking initiative - something I haven’t always been comfortable with. I struggled with vague instructions, and this year has given me the chance to practice taking initiative and setting goals in order to get things done. This year has built my professional competence and helped me become a more well-rounded person. Your service year gives you the opportunity to both hone your strengths and address your weaknesses. 

A Chance to Meet New People and Experience New Things

Without question, the most meaningful part of my service year so far has been the connections I have made with clients, students, colleagues, community members, and fellow NHC members. This year gives you the chance to connect with like-minded people from a wide array of backgrounds. It also gives you the opportunity to explore new places, try new hobbies, and engage in new experiences.

Over the last 9 months, I have become extremely grateful for what I have learned and experienced during my service year. I now feel better equipped to pursue medicine as a provider who prioritizes public health, and feel lucky for the new experiences I have had and the friends I have made.