In this paper, we present a translation of an unpublished autobiographical document by Augusta Déjerine-Klumpke, reporting her early years before she came to Paris to study medicine, when she was able to become one of the first women in France to hold a hospital position, as an extern and an intern. This American-born girl later married Jules Déjerine, who was to become the second successor to Charcot at La Salpétrière 23 years later. The present document gives a vivid account on the preceding years, and emphasizes the extraordinary dynamism and enthusiasm of a young woman, whose efforts and contributions influenced neurology at the turn of the 20th century, and dramatically changed the role of women in medical careers.