The transition of a latino doctor in miami
Getting out of our routines or comfort zones involves many changes, continuous challenges and represents an uncertain future path. Especially when that comfort zone gives us security and complacency in our daily lives.
In our profession, many Latino doctors enjoy an adrenaline rush whenever we practice our vocation, regardless of the political situation we are living in.
Making the decision to immigrate to a new country and explore new cultures, languages, hospitals, procedures, and even new health care systems is a challenge that to many, is impossible.
According to the Association of Medical Colleagues of America (AAMC), the United States has a deficit of almost 122 thousand doctors. This situation has led the country to provide a wide range of options in the field to replace certain shortcomings.
You can explore the many alternatives within the fields. If you are in this situation here are some tips that can help you feel more secure and confident when you decide to immigrate to the United States.
First Stage
- Establish a legal immigration status.
- Work on improving your English.
- Analyze who you are and what makes you happy.
- Research all available job options.
Second Stage
- Get a job (if you have a legal work permit).
- Research how you can move up in positions and experiences.
- Analyze what courses, certifications, or trainings you must do to continue growing.
- Expand your contact networks.
Third Stage
- Work and get the necessary certifications to grow professionally.
- Do not deviate from your goal and be consistent with who you are, what you do, and what you want in the future.
- Help any Latino doctor who is in this process as you once were.
Example: Do not work as a florist because you make you more money when your goal is to work in clinical research. Do not lose the final goal; sometimes, less is more.
Helping one another, as Latinos, is another way to help Venezuela! I hope you find these tips helpful.
Maria A. Mogollón
Clinical Research Coordinator at University of Miami