I grew up in a culture where the family is important. Unlike the Western Culture, teenagers turning 18 years did not have to leave their homes and live independently. Education in our society is highly valued, and it was linked to honor and shame.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a young nation. The Private schools’ system is stable, but Universities are still establishing their foothold. The Islamic culture hindered the study of medicine, making my choice of career challenging to pursue at home. I was put in an awkward position where I had two conflicting decisions. I had to decide on whether to pursue my career away from home or to stay with my family and take a different career path.
My parents left Syria seeking a better life and opportunities. At the time, I was very young. They did not want me to stay at home. I could not imagine a life without them or my friends. For me to leave, I had to prepare myself mentally. I, therefore, went to Germany for eight weeks at the end of my junior year. The experience ended up changing my views. I became more ambitious and intelligent and very passionate when it came to medicine. I also got comfortable and was able to survive abroad successfully. I was very apprehensive, but with the full support of my family, I got on a plane to Canada.
I graduated from a prestigious university four years later. I now have a new life and new friends. My bond with my family is much stronger, and my dream of becoming a doctor will one day materialize.
