How To Get Into Medical School Part 1 Summary

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Like many medical dramas, Vincent Lam’s collection of short stories in Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures allows the reader to explore the extraordinary world of the medical profession. In the short story “How to Get into Medical School, Part One” Lam explores some of the more intimate aspects of a medical student’s life through the portrayal of Ming and Fitzgerald, two characters with similar aspirations, although immensely diverse mindsets. After completing their Molecular Biology Final, Ming and Fitzgerald proceed to have lunch together at the Thai-Laotian Café, a very public location. Throughout “How to Get into Medical School, Part One” it is revealed to the reader that although Ming and Fitzgerald both share similar aspirations in pursuing a career as a doctor, their mindsets regarding more intimate issue differ greatly, and this is revealed through Ming’s constant reiteration that she will not allow any personal feelings to get in the way of her medical education. This idea …show more content…

When discussing Ming and Fitzgerald’s dinner study sessions, Lam states that “Ming was careful to place textbooks on the table, so that each other’s presence could be easily explained if she was seen by any of her cousins or family’s friends.” In doing so, it is evident that Ming cares a great deal about her reputation within society. She does not want to be seen engaging in activities that are frowned upon in her culture, and therefore does not want to be put in a scenario where she would have to choose between her personal affairs and her medical education. By avoiding spending time with Fitzgerald intimately, despite any feelings she may entertain, it is evident that Ming, unlike Fitzgerald, is more concerned with not only her goals and aspirations, but her

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