A Far-Fetched Dream Come True: My Journey to Becoming a First-Generation Physician
When I was little, I wanted to be a detective. Or maybe a teacher. Possibly even a professor.
But definitely not a physician.
No one in my family was in the medical field and I did not consider it as an option for myself either. However, from an early age, I developed a profound appreciation and love for sciences. Then, overtime and through multiple experiences, I discovered a way to apply my love for science so it would help others on a daily basis.
I found medicine.
Medicine was a perfect meld of humanities, basic sciences, and lifelong learning. As a doctor I could be a medical detective, an educator, and a healer. I could live out my childhood dreams.
Except I was an immigrant girl. I had absolutely no idea what it took to become a physician, especially in a completely foreign country. Looking back now, I have found the answer to that question: it takes a lot.
Years of schooling, lots of hard work, wholehearted dedication, strict self discipline, many sleepless nights, sweat, lots of tears, doubts, and possibly a few mental breakdowns.
Thankfully, although my English was broken, my hopes and dreams were always in tact. Through it all, I never gave up. I talked, slept, and dreamt medicine. I knew that it was exactly where I should end up.
On Saturday, May 16, after a decade of hard work, I was elated to re-introduce myself to the world as first-generation physician Dr. Ulyana Dashkevych, internal medicine resident and, God willing, future hematologist/oncologist.
I truly would not have been able to do this without my family — my number one fans — who have never stopped believing in me. Since day one they’ve been there, showing me their constant support and unconditional love. I am beyond grateful for that support, and beyond excited to join a profession where I’ll have an opportunity to help people in their most vulnerable times every single day.
I have the enormous privilege of being Dr. Dashkevych. I will never take that privilege for granted.
Ulyana Dashkevych, DO
Internal Medicine, University of Arizona - COM
PNWU Class of 2020