Ms. Cheena S. Olmedo, a first-year student at Gullas College of Medicine (GCM) and a Registered Medical Technologist (RMT), describes her ongoing journey of adjusting to living away from her home province as she pursues a career as a physician.

Cheena, who is only 23 years old, is carrying on a family tradition by following in her mother's footsteps as an RMT. Cheena was born in a close-knit family having one brother, and her decision to study medicine at GCM represented a huge shift in her life, requiring her to leave the familiarity and comfort of her home province. This change has presented its own set of obstacles, such as adjusting to Cebu's more humid environment and negotiating heavier traffic in a bustling city, a stark contrast to the quiet life in her province.

Despite these challenges, Cheena has demonstrated her resolve. She states that living in Cebu is tolerable, thanks to her capacity to adapt and find balance in her new surroundings. Maintaining contact with her family and friends back home has been an important part of her adjustment journey using social media to keep strong relationships with her loved ones. Whenever possible, she travels home by plane or boat, cherishing the time spent with family and friends.

Living in Cebu City has provided Cheena with fresh perspectives and possibilities, which have enhanced her medical school experience. She has grown to admire the city's bright atmosphere, which she characterizes as "a city that never sleeps."

The availability of resources, such as 24-hour cafes, convenience stores, and the GCM library, which is open late at night, has considerably aided her study regimen. These materials have given her the skills she needs to concentrate on her difficult studies, allowing her to continue to excel academically as she notices the majority of the people she interacts with are very ambitious and career-focused, which resonates strongly with her own goals. This environment has motivated her to do well in her studies and follow her dream of being a competent and compassionate physician.

Aware of the academic obstacles that await her as she prepares to begin medical school. She sees these hurdles as chances to enhance her conviction and commitment, rather than impediments. She believes that the hard demands of medical school would not only push her to her limitations, but also develop her into a more resilient and capable person.

Aside from academics, Cheena is looking forward to the personal development she will experience while attending GCM. She understands the importance of being exposed to many cultures and ideas, which is one of the benefits of studying at a school that attracts people from all walks of life. Cheena is keen to widen her worldview, opening herself to the different perspectives in this phase of her life, which will surely improve her capacity to connect with and care for her future patients.

Cheena's journey at GCM demonstrates her tenacity, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to her goals.