In partnership with
Hi {{ first name | friend }}
Today’s newsletter is all about something we don't talk about enough as premeds:
Becoming the person who gets there!!!
Not just getting into medical school...
But learning how to handle the money, mindset, and habits that come with the journey.
A few months ago, I wrote a letter to my future self, the version of me who has started medical school. Who has already experienced the white coat, the exams, the long nights, and everything that comes with becoming a physician.
I wanted to capture exactly how I feel right now, before everything changes.
The excitement.
The uncertainty.
The fear.
The dreams.
If you've never done this, I challenge you to write a letter to your future self.
Tell them what you're worried about. Tell them what you're working toward. Tell them who you hope you've become.
Then tuck it away somewhere and open it years from now! You'll probably be surprised by how much you've grown. :)
💸 The Financial Lesson I Learned the Hard Way
When I started college, I was terrified of being in debt.
I had to take out loans to cover everything (tuition, housing, food), and at 18, the thought of owing thousands of dollars was extremely overwhelming.
I became so anxious about spending money that I started cutting back on things I actually needed, including food.
My weekly meal?
Literally cabbage steaks.
Sliced cabbage, seasoning on top, baked in the oven. TERRIBLE!!! Never do this ever.
Looking back, I can laugh... but at the time, it came from a place of fear.
During my freshman year running cross country and track at UCLA, I struggled with injuries. Looking back, I don't think under-fueling helped my body handle the demands I was putting on it.
I thought spending less money meant I was being responsible. In reality, I had lost sight of taking care of myself.
That's when I realized something: money isn't about restriction, it's about having a plan.
Learning to give my money a purpose instead of fearing every dollar changed my mindset. I still don't love having loans, but I no longer let them control every decision I make.
💰 Looking for a premed side hustle?
Let's be honest, EVERY extra dollar helps in college!
If you are looking for a new side hustle, check out The Hustle Daily, a free 5-minute newsletter covering business, AI, and tech. As a bonus, they have a daily trivia game where you can earn points toward cash and gift cards.
It's quick enough to read between classes, and while it won't pay your tuition, it's a fun way to earn a little extra while staying informed!
200+ AI Side Hustles to Start Right Now
AI isn't just changing business—it's creating entirely new income opportunities. The Hustle's guide features 200+ ways to make money with AI, from beginner-friendly gigs to advanced ventures. Each comes with realistic income projections and resource requirements. Join 1.5M professionals getting daily insights on emerging tech and business opportunities.
📚 Two Books That Changed How I Think About Money
These are the two books that helped me build a better financial system:
The best part?
You don't need a huge income to start. Literally I think I had $10 in my bank account when I started managing it according to the principles in these books.
What matters is the habits, starting the habits now, will benefit you in the long run when you’re making A TON of money! Yay!
And if buying books isn't in the budget (I've definitely been there), check out ThriftBooks. I've found SO many different resources there for under $3.
Whether it's writing a letter to your future self, learning how to manage your money, or reading one book that changes your perspective, these small actions compound.
The future version of you is built by the small decisions you make today.
Write the letter.
Build the habits.
Take care of yourself along the way.
Siena Palicke
Siena Palicke
Pre-med student matriculating into Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine Summer 2027, content creator and founder of Palicke Tutoring.