Sorry for the long gap between posts everyone! It was a rough end of the semester but guess what.. I AM DONE!!!!!!! I made it through first semester. It was not easy, but I accomplished what I came here to do! As fast as the semester started, it ended. I have met some wonderful people along the way, had new experiences, learned a lot, and had a successful first semester of medical school. I apologize for the gap between posts. I had a very busy end of the semester!
School wise after block 3 I had my physical diagnosis written and final practical exam. The practical was interesting, as it was our first time with real patients other than our fellow classmates. I had the musculoskeletal and respiratory exams. I felt prepared for the exam as Megahan, Meagan, Erica, and I studied with our awesome TA Joe the weekend before. He was great with really showing us what we needed to know and quizzed us on our material. This helped a lot! Both exams went well, even though I got grilled by my professor at the respiratory station (he said he liked my heels though.. haha). Every class was on the fast track to being done as finals came quickly after block 3. I had 2 shelf exams for finals (Anatomy and histology) then I had a cumulative cell biology exam and an anatomy lab practical. Lets just say I am glad to be done with anatomy lab. That place smelled SO bad by the end of the semester. Walking into the exam not only was the lab freezing but it smelled, which I understand, but all the bodies were destroyed from all the dissecting we did throughout the semester. Thankfully the bodies will now be cremated and given back to their loved ones. I cannot thank people enough for donating their bodies to science. It helps us learn the human body in a way that we would never be able to appreciate otherwise.
I am still waiting for my grades but my mind is at home. I just want to be home with Nicholas, my family, and my best friends. I miss everyone and I am mad I didn't know I was done so early or else I would be home. I have so much planned over break, exciting things too! I am looking forward to not having any obligations, no studying, no 5am alarms, and a comfortable bed with NO bugs. Yes I do have to go back to snow, but I actually miss the seasons. Which is why on my mini vacation right now I am enjoying the sun and nice weather while I have it till I see it again in January. Since I am here I am hanging out with my friends on the beach and by the pool, going to dinner, and just enjoying finishing our first semester. I am so proud of us for taking this opportunity and really shinning. I am going to miss them dearly but that is what skype and facetime is for. Plus when I get back I get to move in with Meaghan! this means having the girls over for dinner, cookie baking, wine nights, study parties, and mani-pedis! However I am really excited to be home with my whole family and Nick's family.
Well I am sure I left a lot out, but I will remember after I catch up on sleep!
Till next time,
The Future Dr. Emma XOXO
St. Kitts
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Monday, November 18, 2013
The end is near!
The purpose for my blog being delayed till today was that yesterday we held Friendsgiving here on the island. Since Thanksgiving is the 28th in the states and we have class and well thank is one week before our PD practical we thought it was best to do it early. For most of us it was the first time we had thanksgiving away from our family and friends. I have to say it was weird. However I think we did a pretty good job! We had two turkeys since the ones on the island are small! We had homemade stuffing, baked ziti (made all by myself mom!), mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, roasted veggies, garlic bread, wine, pumpkin pie, and apple crisp. It was perfect! We had such a nice meal surrounded by good friends, good food, and good conversation. I think it really hit me that I am not going to be home for a lot of important events, such as thanksgiving. It is hard, but spending the day with friends helped!
I've been sick recently and not really sure what was up. I got really sick on Thursday night into Friday, but I think it was food poisoning (BLAH). Some other stuff has been going but after consulting with my friends both here and at home along with my mom I came to the conclusion that it won't get in my way. I came here for one reason, and I having been doing so well. I woke up one morning and nothing mattered anymore. I wasn't going to let anything get in the way of my successful semester. However I am excited to more next semester with Meg and have a bigger apartment so our friends can come hang out and study with us!
With only 26 days till I am home (yes home home!) the end is near. Block 3 exams are next week and finals are quickly approaching. Our classes are getting shorter (well Anatomy is) and lab is getting boring (not much to do). Our Professor Dr. Purcell did liven up class last Friday when he mentioned once again that he went to high school with Christopher Reeves and played in a band with Bruce Sprignsteen and knew Bob Dylan. How cool is he! We are also ending Medical Ethics tomorrow! I was able to pull of the A I wanted on the last quiz! Not sure how I managed it, but it felt good as redemption after this long semester. As we finish class tomorrow I will turn in my final assignment and say goodbye to a 1 credit course that I despised every week. Not because I did not like the material, but because it was structured weird and I felt the professor could have taught WAY better. As they say you will have the best and worst professor in your like, I guess this was just one of those times.
As I mentioned I have 26 days till I go home. That means 26 more days till one of the best breaks of my life. I cannot wait to spend time with all of my families and the love of my life. I am so lucky to have such an amazing group of people back home that support me and have calmed me down over the past couple of weeks. I realized I will be gaining 2 more sisters. Two more sisters that I want to be a good role model too. I know my little sister Maria looks up to me, and it has killed me that I haven't been able to be there for her as much as I used to when I went to JC. I know I will be watching her basketball games online as much as I can this season. I realized that I will have two more little sisters to be role models for. I love that feeling. I want to be a role model for not only them but also other girls. I want to show them what determination, self respect, and hard work can do. I never let anyone tell me I couldn't, and I proved a lot of people wrong multiple times. I just hope I can continue being Maria's role model, and start being a role model for my two other sisters I will be gaining when I marry Nicholas. I cannot wait to spend time with everyone and de-stress from this semester. It will also be nice to actually have seasons for a change too. Yes I am going to freeze my little behind off, but a change in weather will be nice for a while and will make coming back in January all the more better.
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| Meg and I went on a banana boat ride where I lost my sunglasses |
Well I know I threw a lot at you guys but here are a couple more pictures that I haven't been able to put up!
Till next time
The Future Doctor Emma XOXO
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| Paradise |
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| Meg and I at White Coat Ceremony! (Future Roommate) |
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| Dean Camacho and I |
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| Yes I live here |
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| Sun fest! |
Friday, November 8, 2013
SO much to talk about guys! Therefore I will start with Sun Fest! This day in the sun is a school sponsored beach day after block 2 exams. It came at just the right time I needed a day off to just relax! All of my friends and myself had a lot of fun. It was back at Reggae Beach , thankfully no tragedies this time, just lots of fun in the sun (well what there was of it, it went away early on in the day.) I had the bbq chicken again, which was delicious, and all of us sipped on homemade rum punch (WAY cheaper than buying drinks there!)
Sunday was a pretty chill day Erica, Danny, Paul and I went to the grocery store because him and Danny (another friend of mine) are renting a car which is super helpful. I am still astonished at the price of groceries down here. It is seriously ridiculous. It is even worse getting beauty products or my favorite foods from home because they jack the price up (just like taxi drivers do too!) I guess I am getting more used to the prices, but I don't think I will fully understand why 4 rolls of toilet paper is almost 8-10 US. Since the guys ran me around I also cooked dinner for everyone! It was nice o just hang out!
Tuesday was another interesting day! I had PD lab (physical diagnosis) and Paul, one of my friends, asked if I wanted a ride to lab decided to rent a car. While we were on our way to school I saw a bunch of cars backed up. We thought it was an ID check (oh yea they have those here) and then we thought it was an accident. Funny thing though, Paul was going to get his Island license later that day, so needless to say he was having a heart attack, and so was I cause I didn't want to be late and I didn't want Paul to get arrested! Thankfully it all worked out! Then lab itself was interesting as was the rest of the week at school. I have been getting more stressed out as I put more pressure on myself to keep my grades where they are at. Even my professor/ advisor knew something was up with me! But I got to do some exciting things in lab this week, mainly I GOT TO HOLD A HUMAN BRAIN. We took the brain out of "Bob" and identify all his cranial nerves and structures of his brain and skull. Then we took a look at his eye and all the muscles that go into play to moving a human eyeball. It was so cool! Speaking of eye I got to watch a cataract surgery in class this week! My professor has his done and asked the doctors to film it, and he used it as a learning tool for us in histology. That was really cool, but kind of gross at the same time.
But I have been very happy lately I am proud to say my boyfriend (soon to be fiance hehe) got accepted to medical school, specifically to Drexel and PCOM! Though we do not know if Drexel is where he will end up he has a spot reserved there. This would give me the opportunity to possibly transfer my 3rd year there (1 of the few schools that would let me) if making a core clinical connection doesn't work. I am beyond excited to be going home for 3 1/2 weeks with the love of my life and our families. I have missed being there for my sister and hanging out with mom, and having intellectual conversations with my dad. It is almost here though! I know the 3 weeks will go fast, but there isn't anything else I would rather be doing. I have to enjoy my time being home because I will be heading back to the big rock on January 8th. I then get to move into my new apartment with Meaghan Fox! Its official! We signed our lease today, and will be living in Silver Reef in apartment #3 in the Coral House! SO EXCITING!
Tune in next week for my after early thanksgiving blog! Ps. Wish my luck on finding a turkey tomorrow!
There is probably a bunch of stuff I could have said but oh well!
Till next time,
The Future Doctor Emma XOXO
Sunday was a pretty chill day Erica, Danny, Paul and I went to the grocery store because him and Danny (another friend of mine) are renting a car which is super helpful. I am still astonished at the price of groceries down here. It is seriously ridiculous. It is even worse getting beauty products or my favorite foods from home because they jack the price up (just like taxi drivers do too!) I guess I am getting more used to the prices, but I don't think I will fully understand why 4 rolls of toilet paper is almost 8-10 US. Since the guys ran me around I also cooked dinner for everyone! It was nice o just hang out!
Tuesday was another interesting day! I had PD lab (physical diagnosis) and Paul, one of my friends, asked if I wanted a ride to lab decided to rent a car. While we were on our way to school I saw a bunch of cars backed up. We thought it was an ID check (oh yea they have those here) and then we thought it was an accident. Funny thing though, Paul was going to get his Island license later that day, so needless to say he was having a heart attack, and so was I cause I didn't want to be late and I didn't want Paul to get arrested! Thankfully it all worked out! Then lab itself was interesting as was the rest of the week at school. I have been getting more stressed out as I put more pressure on myself to keep my grades where they are at. Even my professor/ advisor knew something was up with me! But I got to do some exciting things in lab this week, mainly I GOT TO HOLD A HUMAN BRAIN. We took the brain out of "Bob" and identify all his cranial nerves and structures of his brain and skull. Then we took a look at his eye and all the muscles that go into play to moving a human eyeball. It was so cool! Speaking of eye I got to watch a cataract surgery in class this week! My professor has his done and asked the doctors to film it, and he used it as a learning tool for us in histology. That was really cool, but kind of gross at the same time.
But I have been very happy lately I am proud to say my boyfriend (soon to be fiance hehe) got accepted to medical school, specifically to Drexel and PCOM! Though we do not know if Drexel is where he will end up he has a spot reserved there. This would give me the opportunity to possibly transfer my 3rd year there (1 of the few schools that would let me) if making a core clinical connection doesn't work. I am beyond excited to be going home for 3 1/2 weeks with the love of my life and our families. I have missed being there for my sister and hanging out with mom, and having intellectual conversations with my dad. It is almost here though! I know the 3 weeks will go fast, but there isn't anything else I would rather be doing. I have to enjoy my time being home because I will be heading back to the big rock on January 8th. I then get to move into my new apartment with Meaghan Fox! Its official! We signed our lease today, and will be living in Silver Reef in apartment #3 in the Coral House! SO EXCITING!
Tune in next week for my after early thanksgiving blog! Ps. Wish my luck on finding a turkey tomorrow!
There is probably a bunch of stuff I could have said but oh well!
Till next time,
The Future Doctor Emma XOXO
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Hey mambo, mambo Italiano!
Hello long lost blog readers! It has been a while and I apologize for that! I have been busy with block 2 exams. I had 1 more exam this time so I was trying to keep up with all of the material. I stepped out of both parts of my anatomy exam (written and practical) and felt like oh my goodness that was horrible. But to my surprise it went well! I am proud to report I got 3A's and 1B (and if you want to count ethics I got a B in that)! I felt like I spread myself too thin over a lot of the material, but I am doing to the best I can. Those of you that know me well, know I NEED my sleep, and if I don't I am a very grumpy Emma (no one wants that). So needless to say I have been studying hard, but at the same time getting sleep. This time around I knew what to expect, but with the change in professors and change in question style type it was a lot different. I just wish I could show medical schools back home how well I am doing. I say to them, "Hey look, the girl you thought wouldn't be a good medical student due to her MCAT scores is KILLING medical school." However I know I cannot do that. I even looked into transferring for a short while to whatever school Nicholas gets into, or a school near him. However I would have to reapply because they do not take transfer students from the Caribbean even, and even if they would I would most likely have to retake a year (which I do not want to do.) So instead I will be staying here, living with Meaghan, and continuing my education so I can come back to my Nicholas and my family. I mean I am doing well so clearly this is where God wants me to be!!!
On the other hand I had a delicious Italian dinner with some great friends last night! So good that I ate more food that I have since I have been down here. In the words of Meaghan, "I have a food monster." Yes we stuffed our faces so much at the Italian buffet at the Marriott that we had food babies. I also even made room for dessert, lady fingers, hot fudge, ice cream, and cheeeeeseeecake! The only thing was I lost my bet to Nick. Once again he was right. We all thought since it was a buffet we would be quick, boy were we wrong...again! The guy gave us one check after it took him a half hour to give it to us, which then took another half hour to split the check 6 ways. However, that will not deter me from going back, the food was delicious (including penne in a marinara/vodka sauce, and shrimp in a white wine sauce, salad, and everything else!) I had a good night with good friends! I cannot wait for Saturday for Sunfest! A day sponsored by school to spend the whole day at the beach, with FREE lunch? Yea you better bet I will be there!
Thankfully I also have not had any major household mishaps lately! No burns to report, or smoke alarms, or even big bugs! I feel like I am barely in my room now a days with how busy I am, and when I am there I study and sleep. Oh well right, only a few more weeks of this!
Till the end of this week (look out prob on Sunday or so that way I can get back on schedule!)
Future Doctor Emma XOXO (can't wait till I can put a certain last name in there... hehehe)
On the other hand I had a delicious Italian dinner with some great friends last night! So good that I ate more food that I have since I have been down here. In the words of Meaghan, "I have a food monster." Yes we stuffed our faces so much at the Italian buffet at the Marriott that we had food babies. I also even made room for dessert, lady fingers, hot fudge, ice cream, and cheeeeeseeecake! The only thing was I lost my bet to Nick. Once again he was right. We all thought since it was a buffet we would be quick, boy were we wrong...again! The guy gave us one check after it took him a half hour to give it to us, which then took another half hour to split the check 6 ways. However, that will not deter me from going back, the food was delicious (including penne in a marinara/vodka sauce, and shrimp in a white wine sauce, salad, and everything else!) I had a good night with good friends! I cannot wait for Saturday for Sunfest! A day sponsored by school to spend the whole day at the beach, with FREE lunch? Yea you better bet I will be there!
Thankfully I also have not had any major household mishaps lately! No burns to report, or smoke alarms, or even big bugs! I feel like I am barely in my room now a days with how busy I am, and when I am there I study and sleep. Oh well right, only a few more weeks of this!
Till the end of this week (look out prob on Sunday or so that way I can get back on schedule!)
Future Doctor Emma XOXO (can't wait till I can put a certain last name in there... hehehe)
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Eat, Sleep, study, shower, repeat....
Week 7 and it feel like week 30. I have never been so busy in my entire life. I feel like my life is sleep, shower, school, study, and repeat. I have been going through the motions just to be able to sleep on the weekends and get my few minutes of skype with my boyfriend and family. This block has been harder than the first. I am not sure if it is because the amount of material or that the material itself it more complex. Either way I will be working my butt off this week.
On the lab front the good news is in, my group can finally cut again! For those of you that did not know my cadaver who we affectionately call "Bob" had massive blockage in his vessels which caused for his lower half to not really be embalmed... what a mess! So out lad tech re-embalmed out "Bob" for us so that we would not have to reorient to a new body! ALSO we did not have lab one day this week due to power outages and air conditioning being down. IF you have ever been in a cadaver lab, air conditioning is a MUST.
SO i tired our a new grocery store this week, and there were some pluses and minuses. I found some stuff I have been looking for, but on the other hand they didn't have some stuff I wanted. All in all it was a good experience and will definitely go back and forth!
Since this has been a stressful time I have relied on my friends, my time talking with my boyfriend and family, and sleep. I used stress relief lotion which calms me down with lavender and chamomile, I lit some candles, and watch en episode of something on netflix.
While I was trying to do that today something weird happened. I looked out my back door once the rained stopped and saw a bunch of people. There was a full on wedding going on. It was cramped and small and strange... But a wedding is a happy occasion so go them! (In my opinion there are much better places to get married down here, like the beach.
Oh well who am I to judge, I just cannot wait for my own wedding (hehe). So I guess I will have to wait till then!
I will post a small something at the end of the week before hell weekend.
Till then,
Future Dr. Emma XOXO
On the lab front the good news is in, my group can finally cut again! For those of you that did not know my cadaver who we affectionately call "Bob" had massive blockage in his vessels which caused for his lower half to not really be embalmed... what a mess! So out lad tech re-embalmed out "Bob" for us so that we would not have to reorient to a new body! ALSO we did not have lab one day this week due to power outages and air conditioning being down. IF you have ever been in a cadaver lab, air conditioning is a MUST.
SO i tired our a new grocery store this week, and there were some pluses and minuses. I found some stuff I have been looking for, but on the other hand they didn't have some stuff I wanted. All in all it was a good experience and will definitely go back and forth!
Since this has been a stressful time I have relied on my friends, my time talking with my boyfriend and family, and sleep. I used stress relief lotion which calms me down with lavender and chamomile, I lit some candles, and watch en episode of something on netflix.
While I was trying to do that today something weird happened. I looked out my back door once the rained stopped and saw a bunch of people. There was a full on wedding going on. It was cramped and small and strange... But a wedding is a happy occasion so go them! (In my opinion there are much better places to get married down here, like the beach.
Oh well who am I to judge, I just cannot wait for my own wedding (hehe). So I guess I will have to wait till then!
I will post a small something at the end of the week before hell weekend.
Till then,
Future Dr. Emma XOXO
Sunday, October 13, 2013
The week that never ended!
While reading medical ethics I was contemplating life, mainly because I was reading about what it means to be considered dead (both cardiovascularly and brain). This led me to have a conversation with Nick about how we need to figure all the health proxy stuff as soon as we get married! Crazy to think people could just be in a vegetative state, where they are just stuck in their bodies, paralyzed, unable to do anything except minimal reflexes, breathing, and heart function. It made me realize how precious life really is and how I want to be as specific as I can in my living will that way my family will not have to fight if God forbid something would ever happen to me.
I found myself looking back on the past couple weeks this week too. I was looking back on how I studied, and how I have to adapt this block for the new teacher. I was realizing that a simple change here or there can throw me off. I am going to take this weekend to really focus on work, and try to get a lot accomplished (I even had time for a glass of wine, shh!). And well I can say that I did take the weekend and really got a lot done. I now have to do a little bit of each subject every night and I should be okay! I mean it is not hard to forget stuff that is important when your professors repeat it 10 times until you get sick of hearing them say it!
This weekend was hard for me. It was my baby cousins 1st birthday and my Dad's 50th birthday and party! I knew all of my family was going to be in, including my little cousin Alana. I did get to skype with everyone though which was much needed! My baby cousin even was reaching for the camera (it was very cute!) I am thankful that I get to see instagram and Facebook pictures of my family and Nick's family, keeps me up to date. Though it is hard being here and not being able to be with the people that matter the most to me, but I know in the end this is where I need to be to get where I want to get in my life. Also I guess after all the pop up rain thunderstorms, unbeatable heat, and bugs this place isn't so bad after all (after all it is a tropical island that is gorgeous!)
This past week was full of adventures! I went into town with Kristy and Britt on Saturday (the last saturday) to celebrate Kristy's birthday and have an adventure. We went to the port and got a taste of the island, even had a little bit of time at the beach! I then went into a crazy week of school filled with thunderstorms, LOTS of reading, and not much down time. I was feeling overwhelmed but talking to my parents and nicholas helped a lot! I have 2 more weekends before our next set of blocks exams with not 4 exams but 5 this time. It is going to be a VERY long day for me, but at the end of the day I will get to talk to Nick since it will be our month-a-versary (I know we are too sappy, but when you're in a long distance relationship it is the little things that matter the most!)
At the end of the day I am learning a lot, experiencing life lessons, and couldn't be happier with how my life it turning out. I can only thank the big man above for that!
I miss you all, keep me in your prayers as I am keeping you in my prayers!
(Fingers crossed no hurricanes any time soon!)
Until next time!
The Future Doctor Emma XOXO
I found myself looking back on the past couple weeks this week too. I was looking back on how I studied, and how I have to adapt this block for the new teacher. I was realizing that a simple change here or there can throw me off. I am going to take this weekend to really focus on work, and try to get a lot accomplished (I even had time for a glass of wine, shh!). And well I can say that I did take the weekend and really got a lot done. I now have to do a little bit of each subject every night and I should be okay! I mean it is not hard to forget stuff that is important when your professors repeat it 10 times until you get sick of hearing them say it!
This weekend was hard for me. It was my baby cousins 1st birthday and my Dad's 50th birthday and party! I knew all of my family was going to be in, including my little cousin Alana. I did get to skype with everyone though which was much needed! My baby cousin even was reaching for the camera (it was very cute!) I am thankful that I get to see instagram and Facebook pictures of my family and Nick's family, keeps me up to date. Though it is hard being here and not being able to be with the people that matter the most to me, but I know in the end this is where I need to be to get where I want to get in my life. Also I guess after all the pop up rain thunderstorms, unbeatable heat, and bugs this place isn't so bad after all (after all it is a tropical island that is gorgeous!)
This past week was full of adventures! I went into town with Kristy and Britt on Saturday (the last saturday) to celebrate Kristy's birthday and have an adventure. We went to the port and got a taste of the island, even had a little bit of time at the beach! I then went into a crazy week of school filled with thunderstorms, LOTS of reading, and not much down time. I was feeling overwhelmed but talking to my parents and nicholas helped a lot! I have 2 more weekends before our next set of blocks exams with not 4 exams but 5 this time. It is going to be a VERY long day for me, but at the end of the day I will get to talk to Nick since it will be our month-a-versary (I know we are too sappy, but when you're in a long distance relationship it is the little things that matter the most!)
At the end of the day I am learning a lot, experiencing life lessons, and couldn't be happier with how my life it turning out. I can only thank the big man above for that!
I miss you all, keep me in your prayers as I am keeping you in my prayers!
(Fingers crossed no hurricanes any time soon!)
Until next time!
The Future Doctor Emma XOXO
Friday, October 4, 2013
Keeping My Eye on the Prize
As I mentioned in my post earlier this week I would let you all know how my exams went, and well, I can finally tell everyone cause the verdict is in, I got all A's! I am still surprised, especially on my anatomy exam. However, though I did really well on my exams it has made me that much more focused on the prize at the end which is a medical degree, being able to become a pediatrician, and get back to the love of my life, Nicholas. Though my brain was fried I had to keep plugging away this week, and this weekend will be spent having some fun but studying hard. I know whatever I am doing is working, but I am stepping it up a notch! That means 7am school mornings, staying late at school, meeting with professors to go over material, and crush my exams the rest of the semester.
I received a care package from my family yesterday and boy was I surprised! I only asked for a few things, but they put so much food and love into the package I was smiling from ear to ear. My mom knows all my favorite snacks like goldfish and swedish fish and even put in Halloween candy! I also got a new potholder and oven mitt so no more burning my hands (YAY!)
On another note, I got to meet with my advisor for the first time today. He is also the new Associate Anatomy Professor! We had a talk about clinicals and setting up a relationship with other hospitals back home that would allow me to do core rotations at hospitals near nick! This was AMAZING news. However this means I need to work 10X harder to make sure I keep my A's, ace my boards, and work hard and persistently to set up a relationship and show hospitals that they want to take me as a clinical student. This would allow nick and I to plan our future together, and would allow me to be closer to my family.
Back home it is my little sister's junior year homecoming! I am sad I cannot be there to see her all dressed up. Also my daddy's 50th birthday is coming up and I have to miss that too. Which makes me sad, but I am trying to look on the bright side that if I do this program and succeed I can go home and will be able to be near my family! I miss them more than anything. I hate not being able to go to lunch and dinner with them like I was used to at JC.
One last random thought and I will let you all go, but speaking of JC... I believe my undergrad prepared me for medical school. I got 100% on my cell bio and molecular biology exam and all I can think of is all of my bio professors who have drove that information into my head for the past couple of years. I truly believe that looking at my outcomes that I made the right decision to come here. It has challenged me in ways that I never thought imaginable. I have learned so much information in such a short amount of time and that reservoir of information is just going to get bigger as the days, weeks, months, and years progress! I have been blessed with this opportunity and cannot wait to see what the next few weeks hold!
Till next time!
Future Dr. Emma XOXO
I received a care package from my family yesterday and boy was I surprised! I only asked for a few things, but they put so much food and love into the package I was smiling from ear to ear. My mom knows all my favorite snacks like goldfish and swedish fish and even put in Halloween candy! I also got a new potholder and oven mitt so no more burning my hands (YAY!)
On another note, I got to meet with my advisor for the first time today. He is also the new Associate Anatomy Professor! We had a talk about clinicals and setting up a relationship with other hospitals back home that would allow me to do core rotations at hospitals near nick! This was AMAZING news. However this means I need to work 10X harder to make sure I keep my A's, ace my boards, and work hard and persistently to set up a relationship and show hospitals that they want to take me as a clinical student. This would allow nick and I to plan our future together, and would allow me to be closer to my family.
Back home it is my little sister's junior year homecoming! I am sad I cannot be there to see her all dressed up. Also my daddy's 50th birthday is coming up and I have to miss that too. Which makes me sad, but I am trying to look on the bright side that if I do this program and succeed I can go home and will be able to be near my family! I miss them more than anything. I hate not being able to go to lunch and dinner with them like I was used to at JC.
One last random thought and I will let you all go, but speaking of JC... I believe my undergrad prepared me for medical school. I got 100% on my cell bio and molecular biology exam and all I can think of is all of my bio professors who have drove that information into my head for the past couple of years. I truly believe that looking at my outcomes that I made the right decision to come here. It has challenged me in ways that I never thought imaginable. I have learned so much information in such a short amount of time and that reservoir of information is just going to get bigger as the days, weeks, months, and years progress! I have been blessed with this opportunity and cannot wait to see what the next few weeks hold!
Till next time!
Future Dr. Emma XOXO
Monday, September 30, 2013
Microtubules, brachial plexus, and cadavers OH MY!
So this past week has been prep week for my block exams that I took today, Monday September 30th. For those of you who don't know what blocks are I take ALL my exams, except my small credit classes this block, on one day starting at 8 am back to back until 4pm. I took histology, cell bio, anatomy written, and anatomy practical. I was BEYOND nervous! And clearly since it was an important week I got sick. I got the stomach virus which was going around campus which put me out for 3 days. I even had to take a quiz while sick, BUT still passed so oh well! I am finally feeling better which mean't I could focus on my exams!
All of my classes are running together with overlapping information and I sometimes forget what class I am actually studying for! I also randomly think of things I need to know. For example: Nick and I were talking last night and he mentioned something and for some reason my brain went to the muscles of the hand. Not sure why, but that is how much information I have in my head that it just comes out at times!
I am learning so much and have gotten to see some really cool things. I got to see what emphysema looks like human lungs, I got to see a pace make implanted and the conducted through the heart, what a triple bypass looks like (my cadaver's heart), and even what breast cancer looks like! I am so lucky to be experiencing this all.
I start off my exams early in the morning with histology. That test helped to boost my confidence because I knew all of the material! I then had cell bio and anatomy written and practical. Those were a bit tougher. I get my scores tomorrow as I have checked and they are still not up! However I can breathe for the first time in weeks for only a day. I start new material bright and early with vital signs PD lab (scrub day for emma!) I also get to pick up my package from my mom which I am really excited about! Well I am sure once I get my grades and go through this week I will have more to say so until later this week!
Future Dr. Emma XOXO
All of my classes are running together with overlapping information and I sometimes forget what class I am actually studying for! I also randomly think of things I need to know. For example: Nick and I were talking last night and he mentioned something and for some reason my brain went to the muscles of the hand. Not sure why, but that is how much information I have in my head that it just comes out at times!
I am learning so much and have gotten to see some really cool things. I got to see what emphysema looks like human lungs, I got to see a pace make implanted and the conducted through the heart, what a triple bypass looks like (my cadaver's heart), and even what breast cancer looks like! I am so lucky to be experiencing this all.
I start off my exams early in the morning with histology. That test helped to boost my confidence because I knew all of the material! I then had cell bio and anatomy written and practical. Those were a bit tougher. I get my scores tomorrow as I have checked and they are still not up! However I can breathe for the first time in weeks for only a day. I start new material bright and early with vital signs PD lab (scrub day for emma!) I also get to pick up my package from my mom which I am really excited about! Well I am sure once I get my grades and go through this week I will have more to say so until later this week!
Future Dr. Emma XOXO
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Dancing baby?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOrAF0Ar3ug --> This is a clip I found of the dancing baby that my anatomy professor used in a video about limb formation (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_rV22625zk for those of your nerds out there like me here is the actual link! Weird music... and a dancing baby?)
ANYWAY! Week 3 was filled with ups and downs, a special delivery, my first PD (physical diagnosis) lab, an IV lab, and a bunch of other stuff! I start off my week with the motto from legally blonde the musical from the song, "Chip on My Shoulder." The lyric I took to this week was, "With the chance I've been given I'm gonna be driven as hell. I'm so close I can taste it so I'm not gonna waste it. I got a chip on shoulder.." My amazing boyfriend posted it to my wall and it has stuck with me all week. Our block exams are on the 30th so 1 week away... I am NERVOUS beyond all belief. My tests are all on my computer except my lab practical. I only have 15 minutes to a half hour in between exams.. YIKES! Good practice for the boards I suppose!
PD lab was cool, I got to wear my scrubs and start the process of perfecting the adult history. I learned my personality is more conducive to kids... surprise surprise. I don't really like having to ask the CAGE questions (alcohol problem questions) as i feel they are intrusive and I don't want people getting mad at me. However I need to learn all of this so I can be successful so my personality may be blossoming even more! I have to add I think I looked mighty cute in my matching scrub set and my new sneakers that matched and gave a contrasting bright orange look to everything. I cannot wait for our vital signs lab in 2 weeks (stethoscope and BP cuff time, Thanks to Mr. Jim I am prepared!) I also got to practice more clinical skills this week with an AMSA sponsored IV lab! I got to learn how to place and IV and practice (quickly) before I needed to get to class! It was cool, but all I can say is thank goodness the arm was plastic... took me 3 tries but I guess a human arm won't be that stiff! Anatomy lab was also cool this week we got to open the chest up! I got to touch a pair of human lungs and look at the beginnings of the heart. Our guy has a HUGE heart, and I mean HUGE. The lungs were all squishy and neat! Another group had a smokers lung that felt like a pillow, which was cool and gross all at the same time. Also the smell is starting to get to me... I think it's because we opened up the front cavity. Lets just hope I get to used to it QUICK!
Though my week wasn't all ups I had a few downs. I have been feeling pretty crappy, but got a LOT of sleep. I burned my fingers while wearing an over mitt... which is just my luck. My grocery bag broke on the way home today, my iphone cable broke, and oh yeah my smoke alarm went off again while making garlic bread. However with the stress of blocks right around the corner I got the best thing ever, a package from nicholas! It had a letter which brought me to happy tears and a drawing of two penguins holding hands (that is our thing. Penguins mate for life its too cute). I needed this more than ever. It gave me the extra little boost I needed o realize I am going to well on my block exams, it may be tough, but I will get through it. I also got to talk to my mom for a while this week and will get to skype with my parents! They are sending me two care packages this semester. One very soon and one in late October! I am blessed to have such supportive family and friends back home rooting for me! Keep me in your prayers this next week as I prepare for blocks and take my exams!
Till next week, Future Doctor Emma. XOXO
ANYWAY! Week 3 was filled with ups and downs, a special delivery, my first PD (physical diagnosis) lab, an IV lab, and a bunch of other stuff! I start off my week with the motto from legally blonde the musical from the song, "Chip on My Shoulder." The lyric I took to this week was, "With the chance I've been given I'm gonna be driven as hell. I'm so close I can taste it so I'm not gonna waste it. I got a chip on shoulder.." My amazing boyfriend posted it to my wall and it has stuck with me all week. Our block exams are on the 30th so 1 week away... I am NERVOUS beyond all belief. My tests are all on my computer except my lab practical. I only have 15 minutes to a half hour in between exams.. YIKES! Good practice for the boards I suppose!
PD lab was cool, I got to wear my scrubs and start the process of perfecting the adult history. I learned my personality is more conducive to kids... surprise surprise. I don't really like having to ask the CAGE questions (alcohol problem questions) as i feel they are intrusive and I don't want people getting mad at me. However I need to learn all of this so I can be successful so my personality may be blossoming even more! I have to add I think I looked mighty cute in my matching scrub set and my new sneakers that matched and gave a contrasting bright orange look to everything. I cannot wait for our vital signs lab in 2 weeks (stethoscope and BP cuff time, Thanks to Mr. Jim I am prepared!) I also got to practice more clinical skills this week with an AMSA sponsored IV lab! I got to learn how to place and IV and practice (quickly) before I needed to get to class! It was cool, but all I can say is thank goodness the arm was plastic... took me 3 tries but I guess a human arm won't be that stiff! Anatomy lab was also cool this week we got to open the chest up! I got to touch a pair of human lungs and look at the beginnings of the heart. Our guy has a HUGE heart, and I mean HUGE. The lungs were all squishy and neat! Another group had a smokers lung that felt like a pillow, which was cool and gross all at the same time. Also the smell is starting to get to me... I think it's because we opened up the front cavity. Lets just hope I get to used to it QUICK!
Though my week wasn't all ups I had a few downs. I have been feeling pretty crappy, but got a LOT of sleep. I burned my fingers while wearing an over mitt... which is just my luck. My grocery bag broke on the way home today, my iphone cable broke, and oh yeah my smoke alarm went off again while making garlic bread. However with the stress of blocks right around the corner I got the best thing ever, a package from nicholas! It had a letter which brought me to happy tears and a drawing of two penguins holding hands (that is our thing. Penguins mate for life its too cute). I needed this more than ever. It gave me the extra little boost I needed o realize I am going to well on my block exams, it may be tough, but I will get through it. I also got to talk to my mom for a while this week and will get to skype with my parents! They are sending me two care packages this semester. One very soon and one in late October! I am blessed to have such supportive family and friends back home rooting for me! Keep me in your prayers this next week as I prepare for blocks and take my exams!
Till next week, Future Doctor Emma. XOXO
A
Friday, September 13, 2013
...And Just When I Thought I Had a Handle on Things...
I was wrong... As the second week of medical school came to a close I realized a lot of things about school, why I want to be a doctor, and how living on your own is not as easy as it seems. I started the week off great knowing the material, but then as the week progressed I started to get behind (or at least in my mind I did.) This really stressed me out, which in turn made me homesick. My first official bout of homesickness. I had a hard time dealing with being away from everyone with the stress of school. I used to go to my boyfriend, my mom or dad, and my friends if I was having trouble with school. However, down here, though I have my friends it's not the same. I miss getting hugs from nick especially when he knew I was freaking out even though I wouldn't necessarily tell him (he has gotten really good at figuring that out!) from them and being able to go home and spend the night with my parents. However, I took a deep breath and realized why I was down here. I am here to become a doctor, to be able to get good grades go back to the states and show every school what they were missing. I am here to make myself proud along with all of my family including Nick's family proud of me. Since I have been here I have learned more information than I used to learn in 2 months at Juniata (not kidding). I have been adapting my study habits to fit my needs here, which has been hard. I am constantly tired, have been drinking coffee more than I ever have in my life, and I am lucky to get 6 hours of sleep a night (those of you that know me, know I like to sleep, and no more naps for emma.) My cadaver has more fat than I ever thought was humanly possible. He is leaky embalming fluid which has soaked my lab partner twice this week. Other than that I am trying to learn the material.
Living on my own has been okay till this week. First off I forgot to buy measuring cups, so making rice was interesting. I used a solo cup to measure... my rice turned out okay, a little mushy and sticky like sushi rice, but yummy. I also made my favorite chicken stirfry! Though I am missing my sauce I used to make! Well tomorrow is my first experience with doing laundry down here, this should be interesting.
Till next time,
Future Doctor Emma
Living on my own has been okay till this week. First off I forgot to buy measuring cups, so making rice was interesting. I used a solo cup to measure... my rice turned out okay, a little mushy and sticky like sushi rice, but yummy. I also made my favorite chicken stirfry! Though I am missing my sauce I used to make! Well tomorrow is my first experience with doing laundry down here, this should be interesting.
Till next time,
Future Doctor Emma
Friday, September 6, 2013
The Stressful Life of a Med1 Student
Well I made it through my first week of medical school in the MED1 program, which is accelerated (in the eyes of everyone else). The stress I am feeling makes college seem like a breeze. I don't really have time to just breathe it seems, and when I do something not school related I feel slightly guilty. I have started all of my classes and I am working my way though each. I think my favorite class is going to be medical ethics! There is something about looking at medicine from that perspective that interests me, and maybe one day I will be able to sit on a medical ethics committee at a hospital! Also it helps that the professor is really interesting! He is a licensed pediatrician, so hopefully I can learn a lot from him! My other classes are cell biology, histology, anatomy, lab, and physical diagnosis!
We are full force into anatomy lab right now! I was lucky enough to get Meaghan in my lab group and my cut group! Our cadaver we named Bob. It was weird the first time I saw the bodies. It didn't really phase me, but seeing the human body like that was interesting. So I know that from school that adipose (fat) is all through the body, but my goodness! It took us two days to get rid of all that fat just to be able to see the back muscles. Also we had to prop our guy up because his neck was sunken in... and his belly is big so he is pretty high up on the table, which for "vertically challenged" individuals such as myself and meaghan it is hard for us to see and do work! But today we were cutting the spinal canal open which is called a laminectomy. We had to use the bone saw and though I was reluctant at first (those that really know me that power tools are not my forte) I did it anyway! I got to see a spinal cord, and to be honest I was that impressed, oh well I guess!
Today we had white coat ceremony practice with Dr. Wagner and Dr. Last! As Dr. Wagner was calling out nakes the one girl had a very long name and he said, "I once knew a girl whose full name had 5 names." The girl responded with "Wow thats super longer." Dr. Wagner then replied "That's what she said." Our whole class about died of laughter at that point! If you want to watch my white coat ceremony ONLINE LIVE TOMORROW AT 10:30am eastern (Island time though so it may be running late but tune in at 10:30 anyway the link is:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/
I am getting used to my little place though! The oven is tiny, but it works. I finally got my toilet fixed and even through the internet problems we keep having I don't mind my apartment. I need to hang up all of my pictures of everyone from back home! Soon my room will be covered with my loved ones so it will really seem like a home away from home. I have gotten a little bit homesick this week. I just keep telling myself its only 3 months at a time and everyone is rooting for me. I also have managed to skype and talk to my parents, brother and sister in-law her mom and stepdad and of course nicholas! I've been having a hard time going through the material and I think when it frustrates me I miss home cause Nick or my parents or even Alli and my other friends would calm me down. I also have gotten my first cold while down on the Island. That didn't this mornings situation when I got caught in a rainstorm with the rain going sideways and I got soaked. Thankfully my fiend Erica brought me some scrubs to change into for the day (She is a lifesaver!) Other than all of that I am trying to adjust my life to little to no sleep, waking up early, barely getting any breaks throughout the day, and food that is not my forte. However I did have some BBQ chicken which was delish! If anyone would wanna send me care packages or mail let me know and I will get you my address!
Until next week,
The Future Dr. Emma XOXO
We are full force into anatomy lab right now! I was lucky enough to get Meaghan in my lab group and my cut group! Our cadaver we named Bob. It was weird the first time I saw the bodies. It didn't really phase me, but seeing the human body like that was interesting. So I know that from school that adipose (fat) is all through the body, but my goodness! It took us two days to get rid of all that fat just to be able to see the back muscles. Also we had to prop our guy up because his neck was sunken in... and his belly is big so he is pretty high up on the table, which for "vertically challenged" individuals such as myself and meaghan it is hard for us to see and do work! But today we were cutting the spinal canal open which is called a laminectomy. We had to use the bone saw and though I was reluctant at first (those that really know me that power tools are not my forte) I did it anyway! I got to see a spinal cord, and to be honest I was that impressed, oh well I guess!
Today we had white coat ceremony practice with Dr. Wagner and Dr. Last! As Dr. Wagner was calling out nakes the one girl had a very long name and he said, "I once knew a girl whose full name had 5 names." The girl responded with "Wow thats super longer." Dr. Wagner then replied "That's what she said." Our whole class about died of laughter at that point! If you want to watch my white coat ceremony ONLINE LIVE TOMORROW AT 10:30am eastern (Island time though so it may be running late but tune in at 10:30 anyway the link is:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/
I am getting used to my little place though! The oven is tiny, but it works. I finally got my toilet fixed and even through the internet problems we keep having I don't mind my apartment. I need to hang up all of my pictures of everyone from back home! Soon my room will be covered with my loved ones so it will really seem like a home away from home. I have gotten a little bit homesick this week. I just keep telling myself its only 3 months at a time and everyone is rooting for me. I also have managed to skype and talk to my parents, brother and sister in-law her mom and stepdad and of course nicholas! I've been having a hard time going through the material and I think when it frustrates me I miss home cause Nick or my parents or even Alli and my other friends would calm me down. I also have gotten my first cold while down on the Island. That didn't this mornings situation when I got caught in a rainstorm with the rain going sideways and I got soaked. Thankfully my fiend Erica brought me some scrubs to change into for the day (She is a lifesaver!) Other than all of that I am trying to adjust my life to little to no sleep, waking up early, barely getting any breaks throughout the day, and food that is not my forte. However I did have some BBQ chicken which was delish! If anyone would wanna send me care packages or mail let me know and I will get you my address!
Until next week,
The Future Dr. Emma XOXO
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Whirlwind in Paradise
Phew! I have finally got enough to sit down, catch my breath, and take everything that has happened in the past week in! I flew into St. Kitts last friday with my mom and dad, it was a long travel day to say the least. However, as soon as we got to the hotel we hit the beach. That is where I met my first new friend Erica! We then went to an interesting restaurant at the place where I now live, an Indian/Chinese fusion restaurant I met my other friend Meaghan there and her dad who turned out to help my and my family A LOT! I spent my days at the beach and met my fellow classmates. One night after dinner, we were having after dinner drinks and we got to meet Danny's friends from college Jhulianna and paul!. She completes my little group of girl friends! We have hung out and have become a little surrogate family!
Just as soon as I got to the Island, orientation began. It was a whirlwind! So much information being thrown at us (not even the medical information yet!) I got my ID, I registered, I got my books (which weigh a ton), and I met even more people! I bonded with one girl (Kristy that's you!) who likes ginger ale as much as I do on a regular basis! I also met soren who is fabulous, and brittany. There are even more people I have met but it would take hours! I also got my class schedule last week, it is a doozy! I am beyond excited to start though!
Setting aside first day of school jitters and the slight anxiety of meeting all these new people I have been blessed with the experiences I have had so far. God's creation is b-e-a-uuuuuutiful! I am amazed by the flowers, the greens, the plants and produce and the ocean. I have gotten to swim, play in the sand, go zip lining in the rain forest, and see the sights of this beautiful island I live on. I have also had some interesting experiences with my parents going grocery shopping. Island living is slow, and EXPENSIVE to buy groceries. My goodness I had sticker shock, but I guess I will get used to it eventually. Really living on my own is different. I don't have my crazy housemate (Ali smith) to keep me company or my boyfriend to watch movies with before bedtime on a weekend, but I like it. I knew going into this I needed to really needed to do this for me. I am going to have such a good life experience to tell my kids one day. As the whirlwind of moving has slowed down I have started to really miss everyone back home, but I know this is for the best and I will be back home shortly. I will have pictures up soon to show the beautiful island but I am going to sign off to enjoy my last night before getting down to business starts.
God bless
The Future Doctor Emma Ruggery XOXO
Just as soon as I got to the Island, orientation began. It was a whirlwind! So much information being thrown at us (not even the medical information yet!) I got my ID, I registered, I got my books (which weigh a ton), and I met even more people! I bonded with one girl (Kristy that's you!) who likes ginger ale as much as I do on a regular basis! I also met soren who is fabulous, and brittany. There are even more people I have met but it would take hours! I also got my class schedule last week, it is a doozy! I am beyond excited to start though!
Setting aside first day of school jitters and the slight anxiety of meeting all these new people I have been blessed with the experiences I have had so far. God's creation is b-e-a-uuuuuutiful! I am amazed by the flowers, the greens, the plants and produce and the ocean. I have gotten to swim, play in the sand, go zip lining in the rain forest, and see the sights of this beautiful island I live on. I have also had some interesting experiences with my parents going grocery shopping. Island living is slow, and EXPENSIVE to buy groceries. My goodness I had sticker shock, but I guess I will get used to it eventually. Really living on my own is different. I don't have my crazy housemate (Ali smith) to keep me company or my boyfriend to watch movies with before bedtime on a weekend, but I like it. I knew going into this I needed to really needed to do this for me. I am going to have such a good life experience to tell my kids one day. As the whirlwind of moving has slowed down I have started to really miss everyone back home, but I know this is for the best and I will be back home shortly. I will have pictures up soon to show the beautiful island but I am going to sign off to enjoy my last night before getting down to business starts.
God bless
The Future Doctor Emma Ruggery XOXO
Thursday, August 1, 2013
It's August.. you know what that means... school starts soon!
So its August first which means 21 days till I start my journey to med school! Its crazy how fast the summer went. It feels like I just graduated. I have been preparing for school though! I got my tuition bill, and was awarded the president's scholarship(so cool!) still waiting on housing though... I still have some stuff to get but now its starting the process of gathering stuff up! I am nervous, excited, ready to start, but also dragging my feet a bit. I am really starting to feel the crazy emotions about leaving everything and everyone. Those of you who really know me, know that I have always gone to smalls schools, which is why I chose UMHS, but I have never left home for more than 2-3 weeks at a time. This is going to be totally different for me. Even though I am scared I know it will be good for me and cause me to really grow up. I am not looking forward to saying goodbye to everyone though, I apologize in advance for crying so much thus month. I guess until I leave I will be busy so I will post before I leave and when I get down to the island.
Future Doctor Emma 🏥
Future Doctor Emma 🏥
Friday, May 31, 2013
Scrubs, stethescopes, and shoes oh my!
Let me start out by saying I never knew how many different types of scrubs there were. OH MY! First of all I am a short person so finding scrub pants that fit me is difficult! However I found a pair by Jockey that are petite! (YAY short people) I decided to go with navy and teal, I wanted other colors but thought I should stay true to what is status quo at medical schools, even though I am taking the unconventional approach. I also got my stethoscope as you can see in my picture. Once again I found myself overwhelmed by the styles and colors. I narrowed it down to sea foam or this peach color. I chose the sea foam as you can see in my picture. I also got to try on both my short clinical white coat and my lab white coat. They are being embroidered as we speak so I will post the final med school ensemble when it is all done! All I need to do now is get a pair of comfortable shoes! I am open to suggestions, I have no clue. I heard merelli or however you spell it makes comfortable slip ons which would be ideal.
I am really getting excited for my new adventure. I've been looking at the books I have to buy and I cannot wait to start. On Monday June 3rd I will hopefully be able to pick my apartment and get part of medicine situation taken care of. Importing medicine is gonna be a pain, but I gotta do it! School is going to be tough but I know I can do it! I am going to come back and show American schools what they missed! I am one step closer to my dream of becoming Dr. Emma (whatvever my last name may be at that time.)
I guess that is now for all! I will keep you all updated.
The Future Dr. Emma
I am really getting excited for my new adventure. I've been looking at the books I have to buy and I cannot wait to start. On Monday June 3rd I will hopefully be able to pick my apartment and get part of medicine situation taken care of. Importing medicine is gonna be a pain, but I gotta do it! School is going to be tough but I know I can do it! I am going to come back and show American schools what they missed! I am one step closer to my dream of becoming Dr. Emma (whatvever my last name may be at that time.)
I guess that is now for all! I will keep you all updated.
The Future Dr. Emma
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Post JC graduation whirlwind!
I did it! I graduated Cum Laude from Juniata College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology on May 18th, 2013, and I even got to speak at baccalaureate (See my facebook page for the youtube link) . It was 4 long years filled with tears, laughs, smiles, and lots of work. Looking back on it though I would not have changed a thing. All the tough spots taught me how strong I was and all the good times let me see how much all my hard work was paying off.
After graduation was a whirlwind ( I was sick of course for all of the graduation festivities) and it has been non stop ever since! Right after the ceremony we took pictures with my family, the boyfriend and his family, and friends. Then I forgot about moving out and came home to a grad party all day long filled with family, friends, and good food, marzoni's of course! I am still sick and trying to get everything going for medical school. I know it is 3 months from when I am moving, but the amount of stuff I need to accomplish over the break it stressing me out already!
I ordered my white coat today and checked out eh scrubs and stethoscopes. It felt weird but right when I tried on the white coat. I cannot wait until the embroidery can say Dr. Ruggery, not Emma Ruggery medical student.
There is still so much to do before I move to St. Kitts
My countdown is below, as of today the 22nd I have 94 days left. I need to make the most of these days with the ones I love and will miss!
Monday, January 7, 2013
The beginning
Well, today I sat down and really looked at everything that needs to be done before school starts in September! I know that may seem far away to you, but to me that is close! I have to get all my medical clearances, my visa application, housing, police clearance, financial aid ( and scholarships!), along with scrubs, lab coats, stethoscope, books, figuring out my medicines, internet, flights, and all the extra stuff that goes along with this! As you know by know I am moving to the Island of St. Kitts. Anyone that knows me, can understand why this is a HUGE step for me. I have always lived in a small town, gone to small schools, and even went to a small college only a half hour from my home and family. I am now ready (or not) to start a new chapter of my life, step outside my boundaries, and push myself. I need to do this is achieve my dreams of becoming a doctor.
In July 2012 I got my MCAT results. For those close to me, you know what I got, for everyone else it is not important that you know my score. However, in the US it is critical to have a competitive score. For a girl like myself who has the grades (a 3.8 and dean's list), work experience, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities but lack that ONE single score, it can almost be impossible to gain admittance to a US medical school. I was really down, and had almost given up hope right away. However my amazing boyfriend stepped right in along with my family. I got an email one day from University of Medicine and Health Sciences (I apparently inquired a year before this and always deleted their emails when I was a junior). That same day Nicholas told me about these medical schools in the caribbean who look at students like myself. There is a stigma on these schools, and I will be the first to say I was skeptical at first. However after the information sessions, my interview, and reading other blogs like mine these schools should be praised. They given students like myself an opportunity to blossom, because they have faith in us (which is all we need). I believe I am a well rounded human being who has the personal interaction skills, and intelligence to become an excellent physician. I am going to prove the US medical schools wrong and show them who they missed. I plan on passing the USMLE Step 1 boards (with flying colors)! UMHS has given me the confidence back that I need to succeed and I am looking forward to my time there! Just so people understand this UMHS USMLE pass rate right now is 97% which is only ONE percentage away from Hershey Medical. I could gain a clinical OR residency position right next to someone who went to a prestigious medical school.
Well, that is enough for tonight.
Stay tuned for more updates!
XOXO - Future Dr. Emma Ruggery ;)
In July 2012 I got my MCAT results. For those close to me, you know what I got, for everyone else it is not important that you know my score. However, in the US it is critical to have a competitive score. For a girl like myself who has the grades (a 3.8 and dean's list), work experience, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities but lack that ONE single score, it can almost be impossible to gain admittance to a US medical school. I was really down, and had almost given up hope right away. However my amazing boyfriend stepped right in along with my family. I got an email one day from University of Medicine and Health Sciences (I apparently inquired a year before this and always deleted their emails when I was a junior). That same day Nicholas told me about these medical schools in the caribbean who look at students like myself. There is a stigma on these schools, and I will be the first to say I was skeptical at first. However after the information sessions, my interview, and reading other blogs like mine these schools should be praised. They given students like myself an opportunity to blossom, because they have faith in us (which is all we need). I believe I am a well rounded human being who has the personal interaction skills, and intelligence to become an excellent physician. I am going to prove the US medical schools wrong and show them who they missed. I plan on passing the USMLE Step 1 boards (with flying colors)! UMHS has given me the confidence back that I need to succeed and I am looking forward to my time there! Just so people understand this UMHS USMLE pass rate right now is 97% which is only ONE percentage away from Hershey Medical. I could gain a clinical OR residency position right next to someone who went to a prestigious medical school.
Well, that is enough for tonight.
Stay tuned for more updates!
XOXO - Future Dr. Emma Ruggery ;)
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