I’m an U.S. born & educated former-engineer who made a drastic career change and became a medical doctor. After a long consideration to pursue further education, I chose medicine to be able to be a primary help for the people around me, to become someone who people can rely on, and to be the go-to-guy. I also made a drastic geographical change and returned to the motherland of South Korea to be that rare breed of medical doctor with fluent English in Korea. After completing my medical education in South Korea and becoming more fluent in the language, I decided to immerse myself in the country’s culture and work as a doctor with a foreign passport.
In this blog, I’ll be sharing my journey from engineer to doctor, including the inspiration for my career change, the challenges I faced in medical school, and my experiences as a foreign doctor in South Korea.
I was always interested in science and technology, which led me to pursue a degree in engineering. However, as I progressed in my career, I realized that my true passion was helping people and making a difference in their lives. That’s when I decided to pursue a career in medicine.
Medical school was a big challenge for me, especially since I was an older student with a background in engineering. However, I was determined to succeed, and I worked hard to master the knowledge and skills required to become a doctor.
Making the transition from engineer to doctor was not easy, but it was worth it. I learned a lot about myself and my capabilities, and I developed a new appreciation for the healthcare field.
Although I wasn’t that bad at Korean language, moving back to South Korea was still a big culture shock for me, but I was able to integrate into the new environment quickly thanks to my fluency in the language. I learned to appreciate the unique cultural experiences and perspectives that the country offered.
Working in the South Korean healthcare system has been a unique and rewarding experience. I was able to use my medical knowledge to help patients and make a positive impact in their lives. The healthcare system in South Korea is advanced and well-organized, which made my job as a doctor much easier.
Living in South Korea has been a fantastic experience. I’ve been able to explore the country, try new foods, and make new friends. I’ve also learned a lot about the Korean culture and way of life, which has helped me to better understand the country and its people.
Looking back on my journey, I can say that changing careers was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve found a new sense of purpose and fulfillment in my work as a doctor, and I feel like I’m making a difference in the world.
Throughout my journey, I’ve learned many valuable lessons. Some of these include the importance of perseverance, the value of hard work, and the power of embracing change. I’ve also learned that it’s never too late to make a career change and pursue your passion.
If you’re considering a career change, I encourage you to go for it. It can be a challenging and scary process, but the rewards are worth it. Trust in yourself and your abilities, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
In conclusion, my journey from engineer to doctor in South Korea has been an incredible experience. I’ve faced many challenges, but I’ve also learned a lot and found new purpose in my work.
I hope that my story will inspire others to pursue their passions and make a career change if they feel called to do so. Remember that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and make a difference in the world.
Going forward, I plan to continue to work as a medical doctor in South Korea and continue to learn and grow in my career. I’m also interested in sharing my experiences and knowledge with others through speaking engagements and writing opportunities.
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