I agree it's more than a little strange to post on a Russian site, but I really did just want a different perspective. I also thought that maybe someone lived in both of those countries or maybe even just considered the different aspects of the two in more depth and can steer me in the right direction logistically (some responses have done just that). It feels a little strange to justify how good my Russian is.. I was honestly flattered when the first response came in, but it's just weird that so many people don't believe me. You yourself know both languages extremely well and I have met more people like myself...even people who go back to Russia every summer and miss their friends there, etc. even after being here since they were kids. It's uncommon, but not unreal. The whole "russian mentality" thing is pure bs and stems from not believing that my Russian is the way it is. Have you not met American girls who, despite being objectively smart, good looking, etc., are incredibly insecure and put themselves last in order to stay with a guy?? They are a dime a dozen. Thank you for your advice. That's precisely how I have felt all along. I have completed all the class requirements, did the right EC's, and even rocked the MCAT, so I would like to think I am not two steps behind, although my grades could be better. But I also have a friend from HS who has just finished HYP and moved to Europe to be closer to her bf... And we know another couple with a story almost identical to ours (minus the med school plans) and the gf also moved to Europe with the guy (they may have been engaged before that, not sure). So I thought maybe I am being inflexible or selfish or something. And yes, it has crossed my mind that the med school path makes it difficult to maintain a relationship; I doubt I am the first girl to think that. Again, thanks for your advice... I certainly have a lot to think about.