There's No Place Like Home

I've been home for exactly 5 days now and I'm already getting antsy. It doesn't take long for me. Don't get me wrong...I love being home with my family, not having to study for 10 exams at once, not dealing with the nasty winter weather up north, but I do miss the hustle and bustle of school. I miss learning. I am the ultimate nerd! I better enjoy this break while it lasts. Rest now, work later! I did bring a few books with me to read: my lab medicine text, Cecil's (not the easiest read, but a fascinating read nonetheless), and my radiology text. I'll start cracking those sometime next week.

Here's a line up for the classes that await me next semester:

General Surgery

General Surgery lab

Clinical Medicine

Pharmacology

Primary Care Modules

Geriatrics

Research class

Clinical Decision Making

Just a continuation of what we've been doing, minus the Pathophysiology. Man, I'm going to miss Patho!

A word to the wise: PA school is much more than going to class and getting good grades. I'ts much more than showing up and performing well. It's much more than memorization and regurgitation. There is a lot expected of you outside the classroom. Criminal background checks, liability insurance payments, AAPA/local chapter professional organization fees, additional training (BLS, ACLS, etc.), traveling off-site for lectures and seminars, fingerprinting, the list goes on and on and on. Be prepared! BE PREPARED! Paying for PA school can be challenging all by itself. Be sure that you have residual funds for these kinds of expenses because they will come up, often at the most inconvenient of times.

I think I've rested up enough to go out tonight! It's time to show these Southern salsa folks what I've been up to while I've been away. I had to cut down a bit on the salsa dancing as of late due to the heavy workload. It's been two weeks since I've danced. Insane! That's unacceptable. Yep...tonight's the night! I plan on writing again soon, hopefully after I've visited my old coworkers in the unit! I can't wait to see them.

First year of PA school...DONE

Wow, I've been so busy I almost forgot I had a blog.

Sorry for the wait, dear readers. I can't put into words how busy the last three weeks have been for me. But this is a blog, and words are all I have, so I will do my best!

It's quite simple really...14 exams total over the last two weeks, seven per week including practical exams. I was warned long ago about the rigors of PA school. I began school 12 months ago with my eyes wide open. I knew what I was getting into. I knew about the hard work and the late nights of study, and the unforgiving amount of information that was expected to be learned. There is NOTHING that could have prepared me for what I've been through this semester. When they tell you PA school is tough they are not lying. I didn't expect it to be this tough, though. I feel like I've been run over by an 18-wheeler.

The topics covered this semester were vast: hematology/oncology, EKG interpretation, lab medicine, Cardiology, Pulmonology, Psychiatry, GI, more history taking and soap note writing, etc. We learned a lot, and I enjoyed it. I'm starting to feel myself transforming into a clinician.

When I return to PA school next month, I begin my second year. My second year! Where has the time gone? I remember the days when I was still taking prerequisite courses. I remember deciding what school I would apply to. I remember going shopping for my interview outfit (man, I looked good that day!). And here I am, one year into my professional training as a PA. Absolutely amazing. This semester has been a whirlwind for me and many of my classmates. I've never performed so poorly academically in my entire life. I've never been a "C" student. I've never been accustomed to failing test after test...until now. It hurts the ego for sure, but you get up, dust yourself off, and get back on the horse. I must say, though, I ended strong, my final exam scores look amazing, and I am really proud of myself and my accomplishments.

One more didactic semester left before I am let loose to begin treating real live patients. Scary, yes! But I'm ready to get out of the classroom. I learn with my brain and with my hands. I am a doer, and I know I will thrive during clinical year.

Well, not much else to say for now. I have the next 6 weeks to do absolutely nothing, and nothing is precisely what I'm going to do. Currently I sit in the Charlotte, NC airport heading for home. I haven't seen the detective in almost four months. I can't wait to talk to him and spend time with him.

Updates

Hello November...so nice to see you!

I'm counting down the days to the end of the semester. I'm amazed at how quickly time has passed. We have been extremely busy lately, as usual. And grades are on the rise! Woo-hoo!

So, what's been going on? Well, lots! We began our POME module two weeks ago. This is our version of problem-based learning, where we are given a chief complaint and must come up with a differential diagnosis and primary diagnosis with only the use of a history and physical exam findings. I love learning this way! It forces you to commit to a disease process, even when you don't have all the answers. It forces you to think. It forces you to ask yourself some serious questions. The bottom line is you must know your diseases. If you don't know a disease exists, you won't consider it. You must know how to perform a thorough physical exam. If you don't you will miss important findings that may steer you in the wrong direction. And finally, you must know how to take a good history. It's true when they say that most diagnoses can be figured out based on the history alone!

This weeks' CC was abdominal pain. As a class we rattled our brains to come up with diseases that would manifest in abdominal pain: neoplasm, GI bleed, acute pancreatitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's, AAA, pyelonephritis, peritonitis, appendicitis, ishcemic bowel, biliary ostruction, cholecystitis. We ended up with 99 potential diagnoses! We were split up into three groups and were given a history based on the questions we asked. If we didn't ask the question, we didn't get that part of the history. The next day in lab, we asked for physical exam findings. I'm happy to say that our group got the diagnosis correct. I'm even happier to say that the correct diagnosis, acute pancreatitis, was my primary diagnosis even before getting physical exam findings. The history was textbook acute pancreatitis! I love this stuff!

I think what I love most about PBL is the feeling of really becoming a clinician! PAs are sleuths, detectives, investigators. They ask questions, and use their senses (ears, eyes, nose, etc.) to detect disease. It's amazing what we are able to do without the help of sophisticated diagnostic equipment. Thank goodness we have it to confirm our suspicions, but we do quite well without it most times.

We had no class last Friday, so salsa was definitely on the list of things to do last weekend. And Salsa y Control, Boston's top salsa crew, came through to give workshops and to perform. I had a ball, and I shared a dance with both brothers! AMAZING! A few dancers from neighboring states came by also, and I got a chance to dance with brand new dancers...and they were fabulous!!! It's always fun meeting and dancing with new people.

Two exams down this week, and one more left to go tomorrow. The next few weeks should be smooth sailing, but the weeks leading towards finals week will be hellish for sure. I look at it as my rite of passage. If/when I emerge victoriously, I will have 6 whole weeks of bliss to look forward to. I can't wait!

RIP Dame Joan Sutherland

One of the most beautiful voices of our time. It's amazing...I told a friend the other day that the legends are leaving us. It's bizarre because although I never saw Sutherland live, I always considered her a great talent. She will be sorely missed.

Ace in the Hole

Just completed my first clinical medicine cardiology exam, and I must say I killed it! Feels good...especially when I've been bombarded with one to many C's lately. I don't like C's.


I am in need of a serious break. I'm looking forward to tomorrow night. One of the local salseros is moving up and out to pursue his dancing career. He is a fantastic lead and I've been privileged to dance with him many times in social settings. It's always a great dance. I hate to see him go. He's one of the few On2 dancers we have here, and it sucks because the On2 scene can't grow without On2 dancers. Oh well, I won't be here forever. I'll finish PA school, head back to the South, and I'll have my fill of On2 dancers!!!! Speaking of which, the Atlanta Salsa Congress kicks off tomorrow. Damn it...I wish I could go! It's sad, really...after a year and 1/2 of dancing, I've never been to a Congress. I'm hoping to make my way to one very soon. Maybe I can schedule on of the clinical rotations based on the congresses going on around the country. I better get on that soon!

Well, back to the books. Another test awaits me tomorrow, and then 5 exams next week. Looks like it's gonna be a long weekend.

Staying Alive...

...and doin' a pretty good job of it, too!

It's another gloomy day here in the Northeast. Lots of rain, very little sun, but lots of things to do to keep me busy. Honestly, this semester is flying by. October is soon to arrive, and before we know it, December will be here. I'm looking forward to a break already!

The weeks thus far have been insanely busy. We were warned in advance that Fall semester would indeed be the busiest. They weren't lying. This week, for instance, started with a Pulmonary exam, class from 8am to 9pm, practical exams today and tomorrow, a cardio exam on Thursday, and a Hem/Onc exam on Friday. Next week we have 6 exams and 1 practical exam.

For the readers out there who are beginning the application process, or for those who have been accepted and are awaiting the start of their program, be mindful of the commitment you are making. PA school, though not the be all-end all of life, will be your top priority...but only for a while. There are some semesters that are easier to manage, and others where you feel you are drowning in information. I'll be the first to admit that my grades this semester are nowhere near where they have been in the past. I've come to love B's, and I don't stress out about the ten-point quiz that I fail. Of course, those A's do wonders for one's ego! I'm being honest....you learn to pick and choose your battles. For me, I choose to spend my time on pathobiology, anatomy, pharmacology, clinical medicine, and procedures. If I know these things pretty well, I should be able to work through most problems I encounter in a hospital setting. PA school is not about being the perfect A student. It's about making it through, learning as much as you can, and knowing how to APPLY what you learn to a real patient. I'm truly looking forward to clinical year.

Another thing: If you find yourself unhappy with your program, the instruction, the professors....by all means LEAVE! Don't ever forget the following words...

You applied, you accepted the invitation, you decided to attend. And only you can decide to stay. You will be among the same people and work with the same instructors for the next 2 and 1/2 years. Why be miserable? Do yourself, and those around you, a favor and just leave. Why be unhappy? Why complain? Complain after you leave. I know...you're thinking, "But I want to be a PA and this is my only shot." Wrong. Just apply to a different school and maybe things will be different there! (yeah, right!)

I'm sure some of you current PA-S can relate.

Ok, folks. I aced my practical today ( btw, it was genital/rectal exams and Pap smear). Time for some much deserved rest and relaxation.

The Future of Opera

Hey gang!  I’m exhausted.  I’ve spent the last 12 hours on campus studying for a boat load of tests and practical exams.  But before I retire, I thought I’d stop by for a quick rant that has absolutely nothing to do with medicine.

I love opera.  I love classical music.  It has been a love of mine for many years.  I’ve spent more than a decade devoting my time and energy to perfecting and cementing techniques that take years to comprehend, let alone practically apply.  I no longer sing for a living, but I am a singer.  I no longer create music for others to enjoy, but I am a musician.  My body was my instrument, and I took great pride in producing  the type of sound that did not depend on a microphone for amplification.   I did my best to become the character I was portraying.  I knew every word of every language I sang in.  The emotion I conveyed stayed true to the lyrics and the music.  More importantly, I listened and studied the great artists.  I watched them and emulated them (sometimes to the detriment of my own technique).  More importantly still, I had a one of a kind vocal coach/teacher (the combination is quite rare) who was  master and teaching the Swedish/Italian school of classical singing.  Moreover, she was a master at teaching me.  She gave me what I could handle at the time.  She never pushed my voice.  She always encouraged me to ease into heavier repertoire.  She never hesitated to steer me clear from things that would hinder my progress.  She believed in me and my talent.

The title opera singer is being tossed around a lot these days.  Let’s be clear:  dressing up in fancy costumes and expensive clothing and singing song from operatic works does not make you an opera singer;  being young and cute and charming does not make you an opera singer; sounding like an adult singer (even though the sound is being manufactured) when you are only ten years old does not make you an opera singer.  It boggles my mind that people who have never stepped foot inside an opera theater, or couldn’t name one member of the Bel Canto Trio, or name the principal characters in Die Zauberflote (or the composer for that matter…and this is one of the easy ones) are judging the talent, or lack thereof, of these “opera singers.”  Are these performers singers?  Absolutely!  Are they opera singers?  Not in the least.

History lesson, folks!  The great opera singers-Caballe, Callas, Di Stefano, Nilsson, Gigli, Bjorling, Ludwig, Fischer-Dieskau, de los Angeles, Verrett, Sutherland, Carerras, Flagstad, Milanov, Gedda, Ghiaurov, Caruso, Galli-Curci, Pons, Grist, Horne, Sills, Corelli, et al (notice I did not mention Pavarotti’s name…he’s great, but there are so many others that are overlooked)- these are opera singers.  Study them.  Listen to them.  Watch them.  This is what the classically trained voice sounds like.  Now, compare and contrast.  Put any of the above in a concert hall, and they would rip the paint off of the walls with no microphone.  Put today’s “opera singers” next to any one of the above, and you wouldn’t even know they were singing.  Theatrics are great.  A cute face and a smile is great, but it does little to mask the fact that you’re simply going through the motions, and playing on the emotions of an ignorant audience. 

Now, I’m not referring to the vocal talent of these “opera singers.”  In fact, I think they are talented.  They would do well in amateur competitions, karaoke nights at the local bar, and Christmas sing-a-longs.  There are many people who have good voices.  There are very few who have operatic voices.  This takes training…and from what I hear, every single “opera singer” today lacks the training.  If your ear is trained to hear it, you will pick up on a myriad of things:  chest breathing with a closed pharynx, pulled down pharyngeal posture which creates a low soft palate, flat/retracted tongue posture, and poor breath management.  Simply put, you have bad crooning!  What’s worse is many of these things can shorten the life of the singing voice.  This is horrible to think of when you consider some of these “opera singers” have barely begun to live life.

The future of opera is bleak.  It’s full of watered down singers who shove mics down their throats.  It lacks the grandeur of the old days when you could walk into the theater one way, and walk out of the theater a changed human being.  Life changing performances are still occurring.  I recall my account of a concertized version of Dr. Atomic that I entered here a few years ago…changed my life!  It’s these emotional journeys that make music so precious.  Taking a score written 2 centuries ago, performed a million times, and transforming it into something brand new!  I get chills just thinking about it.  I fear these kinds of performances are becoming more extinct as time goes on.  It’s ok!  Go ahead and cheer on these “opera singers.”  I’ll keep listening to the legends!

Sunday Morning

Good morning, readers!

I love Sundays. I usually sleep in late, wake up and prepare a delicious breakfast, and lounge around until late afternoon. Not so today. There's just too much work to be done. And I'm loving every minute of it. And I'm happy to be enjoying it as much as I am, because if I weren't, I'd have some serious thinking to do. Yes, PAs make great money. Yes, PAs get to "help people." And they get to do things to other human beings that most will never do. But there isn't enough money in the world that could keep me here if I were miserable!

It just hit me last week that in less than 9 months, I will inside an office or hospital somewhere dealing with real patients. They will be sharing intimate information with me, and they will instill a great deal of trust in me. They will disrobe and allow me to see them and touch them. They will listen to what I say as if it is law, and they will follow whatever regimen I prescribe, many without hesitation. What an honor, what a gift! I believe it was the cardio lecture last week that really got me thinking. Our adjunct instructor, who is an internist, impressed on us the importance of reading, researching literature, and learning as much as we can NOW. He stressed the importance of touch, and explained how therapeutic it is for patients. He stressed the importance of listening (the overwhelming majority of patients can be diagnosed simply from taking a great history and performing an excellent physical exam). He stressed the importance of good physical exam techniques. This is the time to absorb as much as possible, because once out in the field, there is no going back. It's important to learn now, to set a strong foundation now.

I didn't come to PA school to become an average practitioner. I came here to be the best!

One Week In...

...and we've hit the ground running...sprinting!

18 credits, 8 classes, early mornings and late nights. I practically live in the library. But I feel like this is the semester when things will start to come together. I'm already beginning to connect the dots between my current classes and classes I took two semesters ago. It's amazing the volume of information you go through month after month, but as I go along, I realize just how important it is to revisit the old handouts, powerpoints, and note cards to keep the information fresh in my mind.

This semester I plan to begin studying specifically for the PANCE. I've begun looking at a few test questions online, but have yet to purchase a review book. With so many choices out there, I'm reluctant to make a quick purchase. Any suggestions??

Summer Semester...DONE

Good morning, and greetings from SE USA!! I just arrived home late last night. It feels good to be done...

Finals week was tiring, of course, but I had lots of fun with the exams. The material this semester was enjoyable for the most part, and I feel like I really earned some stripes. I have a few simple procedures under my belt, I know how to write prescriptions, and I'm really starting to feel like I'm gaining some workable knowledge. Here is what lies in store for us next semester:

EKG/Lab Medicine/Radiology
Patho III
Clinical Medicine III
Pharmacology II
Women's Health
History taking and Physical Exams II
History and Physical Lab
Procedures and Diagnostics II

Yep...8 classes and a total of 18 credits. Instructors have warned us that this is the most difficult semester of them all. This is when most students are lost to bad grades and poor time management. To make it through two semesters just to be kicked out seems cruel. I don't intend to be in that number. I'm not going out like that!

The detective and Linc are sleeping right now. I feel like I need something to do. It's difficult trying to relax when you've spent months in high gear, but I'm going to force myself to do it. I deserve it!

2 Weeks

Can you believe it!?! In two weeks I'll be home with the detective and Linc. What a roller coaster this semester has been.

In 8 weeks we've plowed through medical ethical issues, learned cardio and respiratory pathophysiology, drawn each others' blood, learned ABG technique and interpretation, learned all about MS issues and how to recognize them, AND learned prescription writing for a boat load of drugs. Can life get any better? I must admit, I had a rocky start this semester due to family concerns. It's not easy being in PA school and being miles away from your family. But I chose this lot, and I wouldn't change a thing about it if given the chance to. My grades are stellar right now. Sweet!!

This week marks the last of the semester, and next week is finals week. Then, we're outta here!!! Wooooo-hooooo. Three whole weeks of bliss, peace, quiet, fun, salsa, and NO BOOKS. Well, not really. I plan on going through every single notecard that I have ever made, and brushing up on my EKG skills. It's amazing how much information you forget when you don't use it.

Talk to you all soon!

Go SLP, it's your birthday...Go SLP, it's your birthday...

Yep! The big day is right around the corner. This birthday marks a time in my life where are components have come together! It feels good to know that I'm on the right track in life, doing the things that I love doing, meeting wonderful people, and doing amazing things! I can honestly look back over my life and say I have no regrets. The good, the bad, and the downright horrendous events of my life have all made me who I am and what I am. And I love who I am and what I stand for. And most importantly, I love where I am headed!

The better it gets, the better it gets!

Hellooooo..... anybody home?

Yes, I'm still here, and no, I'm not ignoring you. Do I really need to explain? Probably not. You all understand, I'm sure!

So, we just wrapped up a hellish week of tests and practical exams. Funny thing is, during my ABG practical, while trying to take the cap off of the needle, the entire needle came flying out. My hands were shaking so badly, I could barely put the needle back onto the syringe. I couldn't help but laugh to myself...and laugh out loud as I walked out of the testing site. You would think that with all my years of performing I wouldn't have a nervous bone left in my body. Yeah right!

Last week, in comparison to the week before, was a great success. There wasn't one exam I walked out of where I felt that nasty, hollow pit in my stomach. The exams were challenging, but I prepared well, and I trust I did well. There's nothing like a difficult Patho exam to cheer me up and make me feel smart! I must admit, I'm growing weary. The summer semesters go very quickly and material is thrown at you at lightning speed. It's ok! In three short weeks, I'll be home on summer break!

It looks like my break is already booked up! I'm traveling to Mississippi for a few days with the family, and then Linc, the detective and I are planning a mountain retreat for a week or so. I can't think of anything better than waking up early just to catch the sunrise; having breakfast on the patio; breathing in that crisp, clean mountain air, and hiking with my two favorite people (yes, my dog is a person, too) in the world.

Until then, it's back to the books.

Approach PA school with positivity

Hey gang!

Not much time to blog today (I'm taking it easy this evening, and I want to make it last!), but I just stopped by to say that PA school can be tough. Lots of reading, lots of assignments, and lots to learn. PA school can be stressful. PA school can wear you down. But here's the good news...it's all relative.

Isn't everything in life. Throw two people into a bad situation...I mean a situation that is so bad, so challenging, it makes your head spin. One person could view the glass and half full, while the other sees it as half empty. The point is, both parties have a choice! How would you choose to see the situation?

The same goes for PA school. Yep, there will be days when a professor switches test days and screws up your plans to go out on that hot date. Yep, there will be days that that student continues to ask the most irrelevant questions. Yep, there will be days when everything that everyone does just gets on your nerves. There will be times when you wonder why you continue to come to class. Attitude is EVERYTHING! For me, this is becoming more evident and school progresses. A positive attitude can make the worst of times the absolute best of times. A positive attitude is contagious. A positive attitude demands attention. A positive attitude is a winning attitude!

Sure, I have my moments when I grow tired of the mundane, day in, day out PA school routine. But two thoughts run through my mind: there are lots of students that would give ANYTHING to be sitting where I am, and...I signed up for this, not because I was forced to, but because this is what I love doing! I suck it up, put on a happy face, and keep plugging along. I love being here. I love doing what I am doing. I am blessed to be here. I want to see only the good in all things. I trust this attitude will serve me very well.

O Happy Day!

Today I feel good. No, I feel GREAT! Why???

No particular reason. Doesn't it feel good to feel good, for no real, tangible reason? That's the best feeling in the world. Truth be told, I can look around and find lots of things to be happy about. Let's name a few:

I had a virus on my computer last night, and this morning I figured out a way to get rid of it.

I'm having a good hair day.

Today is "Dress Up Monday" and I am dressed well.

I had a few minutes to listen to Hab mir's gelobt this morning and it brought a smile to my face.

I spoke with my husband and my mother this afternoon.

I'm having a good hair day.

I'm all caught up with my notecards for Patho and Clin Med.

I self installed an Air Conditioning Unit in my bedroom. No more night sweats!

My car is in great working order, and looks great! (I need to wash it, badly.)

I just had a great bowl of oatmeal, and a sweet navel orange.

I could keep going....but you get the point.

There is much to appreciate, so many free gifts in this world. Never will I let another day go by without taking some time to focus on the many things that are going right in my life.

We just concluded a 4 hour class. Only one more to go. Then I have the rest of the afternoon and evening to myself. Yipee!!

Great First Day

Just returned from the first day back at school. Today was an easy, laid back day. It felt good to be back in the swing of things. Four hours of lecture before lunch, and two hours after...plenty of powerpoints, but the material is very interesting. Tomorrow we begin Procedures and Diagnostics, and by next week I will be sticking someone! Sweet!

I'm glad that the weekend is just a day away. This will give me ample time to get all this new information down in a study guide format, and rest up before we begin our first full week of class. I'm still feeling quite sluggish after such a restful 2 week break. I haven't slept well since I returned, which explains why I yawned my way through class today.

Well, our class tomorrow has been moved from 8am to 10am, so you know what that means. Salsa time! I promise, I won't be out too late!

Summer Break: Done...

...but that doesn't mean my brain isn't still on break.

Hey folks! Words cannot express just how PHENOMENAL my break was. I feel so rejuvenated, rested, calm, and ready to embark on the next step in the PA school process. I got chance to see lots of family members, salsa friends, and I spent lots and lots of time with the detective and Linc. It was exactly what I needed. About half way through the break I felt my brain turning to mush, but I forced myself not to read any textbooks or medical-related literature. Difficult, but doable.

I'm eager to return to school and get back into the books. I've spent most of the day restocking the kitchen, cleaning, throwing old papers out, and reorganizing my binder to make room for the new stuff. I'll be in class tomorrow morning at 8am...sharp! And the countdown begins again; only two months until we get another HUGE break.

Finals week: DONE!!

I’m happy to report that I have successfully completed my first semester of PA school!!! *happy dance*

This past week has been a whirlwind.  The script went something like this: stay up late, study, get 5 hours of sleep, wake up, study, take test, repeat.  Needless to say, I’m exhausted for the first time in a long time, simply because I can be!  I’m really proud of my academic performance this semester.  No C’s, no academic probation, and I get to come back to do this all over again in the summer.  Some of my colleagues will not be able to say the same.  However, there is great room for improvement.  I started off quite strong in the beginning, but slowly, as the workload got heavier and heavier, I began to procrastinate.  And that, folks, spells disaster.  I can’t let that happen in the summer, and it surely can’t happen in the fall semester.  So today, I am rewarding myself with…yep you guessed it…SALSA!  Party starts at 10:30pm, and I intend to stay until they throw me out.

I head home tomorrow to spend the next two weeks with the cop (oops, sorry…Detective) and Linc.  I can’t wait to see them and my entire family.  And now that I’m dancing mostly on2, I’m looking forward to seeing my salsa folks back home and showing them all the stuff I’ve learned while I’ve been away.  It’s gearing up to be a busy, fun-filled summer break.  Much needed, and much deserved.

I’ve already written about what classes await us this summer.  I’m really looking forward to getting my hands dirty.  The summer semester is only 1 1/2 months long, so there will be no time to play around.  Right now, the summer semester is the last thing on my mind, but I know myself.  Give me one week of no studying, no reading, no medicine, and I’ll be wishing I were back up here with a million and one things to do. 

I plan to check back in with you guys once I return.  Until then, happy summer break!

Wrappin Things Up

Hey folks. It's been a while.

The semester is quickly coming to an end, and as a result, the workload is piling up. I've got so much on plate right now, it's ridiculous. We continue to learn so much everyday, and I'm still enjoying every bit of it.

Last week we were allowed to register for the upcoming semester. Here's what lies in store for us this summer:

Procedures and Diagnostics
Medical Ethics
Clinical Medicine II
Pathophysiology II
Pharmacology I
Primary Care Modules

And all this for a measley 10 credits. Yes, you read that right!

The summer is shaping up to be an exciting semester. I think I'm looking forward to the Procedures and Diagnostics class the most. I love being in lab and using my hands! But before I can embark on that journey, I've got to wrap up this spring semester...successfully. I'm really pleased with my grades this semester. I've worked hard, but I've found a healthy balance with work and play. I have time to go out when I want, and I've learned how to divide my study time among every course I'm taking. It's impossible to do well in PA school if you devote your time to one subject and neglect the others. Each subject must be looked at daily, and I've been slacking in this area. Oh well, summer semester is the perfect time to re-implement this study habit!

On a personal note, the cop will now be referred to as the detective! Yes, hubby is now a detective with the Traffic Specialist Unit back home. I can't be more proud of him. For some reason, the closer we get to summer break the more I miss him. I just have to hold on a little longer, then I can spend two straight weeks with him and Linc. I can't wait!!!

Well, back to Anatomy...and Clin Med...and all the others!!!

Currently on Easter Break...

...yep, and lovin' every minute of it!

What a week this has been! It all started with a HEENT quiz on Monday, a physical exam practical on Tuesday, and ended with a big, fat anatomy test on Wednesday. I literally skipped out of class on Wednesday. My break began as soon as the proctor had my test in his hands!

School resumes on Tuesday. I have made a pact with myself to relax and enjoy this beautiful weather for two days. I'll be back in the books tomorrow afternoon. Honestly, I've found it pretty difficult to stay still. PA school has required me to stay "up" for so long, and now it seems so difficult to come down and chill out for a spell. I better take advantage of this time while I can. A mountain of work awaits me tomorrow! So far the break has been wonderful. I went salsa dancing Wednesday night (I didn't waste any time, did I?), caught up on a few Twilight Zone episodes, and I'm going salsa dancing tonight! Life is so sweet.

Not much else to report right now. We begin summer registration in the next week or two. I'll let you know what classes lie in store for me.

Catching my breath

It’s been a while, again. I know…i know.

Lots to talk about today. First, spring break was wonderful! I had a blast seeing the cop and Linc, and catching up with family and salsa friends. There were so many folks I wanted to see, but even six days wasn’t enough to get to all of them. I’ll have two weeks off before the summer semester starts, and I’ll be sure to see everyone then!

Secondly, school has kicked up a notch. They’re throwing new material at us left and right, and I must admit two things: I lost my drive due to spring break, and I got behind on my readings and studying. Big no-no!!!! So, I’ve had to kick it into high gear, find my motivation, and catch up. And finally, I get to sit down and catch my breath. The good news is my grades did not suffer at all! I am so proud of my performance here this semester. We still have lots of work to complete before the summer session, but if things continue the way they have been, I will be going into it with a strong GPA, and a strong understanding of the material. On a not so good note, we have lost a total of 3 students to date, all for various reasons. I don’t know the details, and to be honest, I really don’t want to know. It’s none of my business. I do, however, wish them well in their endeavors.

Now for the great news! It’s PARTY TIME TONIGHT! Mr. Eddie Palmieri and his world famous Salsa/Latin jazz orchestra is coming to town, for one night only, and I will be there with my dance bag in hand and a smile! After the concert I’m heading downtown to dance the night away, and this time, I will have my ballroom shoes. Yes!!! Time to decompress, relax, and have some fun.

It’s been a while

I know, I know.  I’ve been incognito for a little while, but I have my reasons.  First, my computer crashed and burned!  Second, the past few weeks at school have been quite busy.  The workload never lessens, and we are getting into the meat and potatoes of history taking and physical exam techniques, all which require loads of practice time. 

Nevertheless, I’m really enjoying my time here.  As the days go by, I find myself becoming more and more comfortable with my classmates, and my time management skills are being put to the test.  That feeling of excitement is still present, and I’m hoping to hold onto it for as long as possible.

Spring break begins this Thursday, and in approximately 48 hours I will be in the arms of the cop…and Linc will be in my arms!   I can’t wait to see them, and my mother, sister and stepfather.  I’ll be there for about 6 days, which isn’t nearly enough time to see all the people I want to see.  However, I’ve already got plans to meet up with the salsa family on Friday night, and my old coworkers want to get together this weekend.  Of course, the cop has top priority.  We have a lot of catching up to do, and finally, after a year of pining and dreaming, the cop and I are going out to buy his very first mountain bike!  I’m so excited for him!  Quite a bit of money for a toy, but for my sweetheart, it’s money well spent!

We have lots of projects due once the break is over.  I intend to milk the break for all it’s worth and put my family members to good use.  They’ll get the full workup: eye exam, percussions, palpations, auscultations, ear exam, and a full medical history.  At this point, I need all the practice I can get.

Time To Step it Up/Good News

I've been studying for 6 hours; I need a break.

I got the fear of God put into me today. It seems that our class is not performing as well as we should at this point. One could say that enough time has not passed for us to hone in our study strategies, ingest the material, and feel settled in this new learning environment. Those would all be valid arguments. But when you're receiving over one hundred powerpoint slides per class, one month's worth of PA school equates to about three. And in three months, if you're not a master of the learning material then something is wrong; if you're not yet comfortable in the new environment, you never will be.

We got not one, but two, lectures on grades and our performances on tests so far. I don't think we would have gotten these pep talks if the overwhelming majority of the class was doing well. That worries me. It worries me because I know that I could have easily been on of the students with the pink slip attached to their scantron, and I don't want to experience that. I've done quite well so far, nevertheless, I aim to do better, and the pep talks we got today were precisely what I needed to redirect and study with a much sharper focus. I realize I can't know everything, but my attention to the details could definitely improve.

Next week is a whopper: 3 big exams, in addition to the start of projects and presentations. Talk about time management. I don't even think I should try to go salsa dancing this week, although it would serve as a great stress reliever. I certainly could use that time to study.

As far as the good news goes, I may have secured a pediatrics rotation in my hometown. One of my PA mentors has offered me a spot in her peds office and I have gladly accepted it! I can't imagine being able to go home for 5 weeks! I'm really excited about this prospect, and I will talk more about it as the details and dates become more solid.

Some kind of break this has been...there is no escaping school, ever! Back to the books!

Another week complete

I'm really amazed at how fast time is going by. We are already entering our 4th week, and there hasn't been a dull moment yet.

The week started off with tragedy. I...skipped...class. Not because I wanted to, but because I was forced to. I will spare you, my invisible, perhaps nonexistent audience, all the gory details. Suffice it to say I cried, screamed and cursed my way into alignment with who I really am. It took a few days, but I'm good now!

Due to the inclement weather here in the north, classes were cancelled -to my dismay- on the busiest day during our school week. We missed two three-hour classes, one of which had to be made up early Saturday morning. The good news is the lecture yesterday was wonderful! I love anatomy, always have, but the lecturer was a older, nerd-like PhD with an unwaivering charm and a knack for dispelling the mystery of anatomy. In short, he made our three hour class fun and informative. I don't mind getting up early on the weekends to attend classes like that! And...I have a thing for nerds! Our first anatomy exam is scheduled for this week. I'll be happy to have it behind me.

The daily addition of learning material in PA school is unforgiving; one must stay on top of things constantly to keep from falling behind. There are tough lessons to learn as you go along. Last week I learned something very valuable: no matter how team oriented you may be, at the end of the day you are simply a PA student, alone, with the sole responsibility to keep your head above water, master the material, pass the PANCE, and begin saving lives. No, there is no "I" in team, and rightfully so. If you fail, there is no one to blame but you. If all hell breaks loose, YOU pick up the pieces alone. It's great if someone lends a hand to help you, but don't depend on it, because most people will let you down. The only person you can ALWAYS depend on is you! And really, should it be any other way? Self dependence is self empowerment, and that is never a bad thing. I can think of lots of instances where dependence on others may yield less than desired results.

Ok, enough philosophy for one night. One more round of studying and I'm off to bed. Three more weeks, and I get to see Linc and the cop. I can't wait!

Second Week

Hey, I'm still alive. Is that a good sign?

Classes are going very well. We received our test grades and I did quite well, but I felt these preliminary exams were far too easy and I expect things to become more difficult in the near future...like next week.

We have three exams scheduled for next week, and next Saturday we begin working with our cadavers. I'm really looking forward to holding a part of the human body in my hands, and assaying the insides of something that most never get to see. Pretty exciting stuff!

Finally...finally...after a bust two weekends ago, I finally found a salsa spot nearby. I didn't know what to expect, but when I walked through the front door I knew I was home! Lots of people and lots of great dancers. I had a great time, danced some stress away, and even made a few new friends. I love salsa. I know I won't be able to go all the time, but at least I know of one place I can go where the dancing is awesome!

A Week in Review

What they say is definitely true. PA school is like drinking from a fire hydrant!

Honestly, this past week feels like 5 weeks rolled into one. The amount of information and the pace at which classes are conducted are astounding. Prior to the start of school, I was constantly trying to figure out a way to better prepare myself. The truth is, there is no way to prepare for this kind of experience. You have to jump in feet first!

I am by no means overwhelmed at this point. On the contrary, I am inspired to spend a great deal of time reading and absorbing as much as I can. Every book on the book list is important, and every class counts. There are no fillers in PA school. Everything matters, and everything is done for a purpose.

Here are a few things I've picked up during the first week that I feel will be paramount to my success:

1. Study daily: Due to the amount of information thrown at you from day one, there is no possible way to learn what needs to be learned unless you give each class a bit of attention everyday. The key to daily study is to add to your notes, even if it is two or three sentences. This is the meaning of integration. What are you learning in your other classes that you can relate to the class you are studying for.

2. Study in groups: I'm not really a group person, but already I can see how valuable they are. The key for me is to study the lectures and read the book on my own first, then get together with the group to hammer it all out and make sure we all are on the same page. Study partners make you think about topics in different ways, and some of the mnemonics they come up with are really helpful.

3. Read: Sounds simple enough, but I think lots of people just focus on the notes and neglect the text altogether. This doesn't work for me. I love to read, and I learn well just by reading the text. If a topic in the notes just doesn't make sense, go the text and get clarification. Typically the text will give you detailed information about a certain topic. And in medicine, it's all about the details.

4. Attend lecture, always: Avoid missing class if at all possible. Attending lecture keeps you on top of your studies. Missing lecture guarantees that you'll get behind. There is no substitute for being in class and taking your own notes.


I'm really enjoying this process so far. I'm expecting the workload to increase as we move along, but I am pleased with the results of my study techniques. Two tests tomorrow...already! I'll let you know how it goes.

Study Methods

As we draw closer and closer to the beginning of the didactic portion of my program, I find myself going back and forth between strategies I've come up with to tackle the massive amounts of learning material that's headed my way. I'm not quite sure how to format my studies and organize my binders. I'm not even sure if I should get binders for each class.

I've never really been an in-class notetaker. I've always thought that class time should be spent listening and absorbing as much information as possible. I usually reserve notetaking for private study sessions at home, and in turn, my notetaking becomes a form of study. I don't know how that strategy will work here, but I'm willing to give it a try. I only know that time is of the essence, and I can't waste it sifting through multiple study strategies. I need to do what works NOW!

Today was a busy day, but it was enjoyable. We got a bit of insight on the classes we will be taking this semester. It seems like gross anatomy will be the toughest of all. I was happy to hear that we are taking the same anatomy class (with the same instructors) that the medical students up the road take. I want to be challenged, and I know this class will push me to my limits. Perhaps this class will push me past my limits! Even better.

The most resounding piece of advice our academic coordinator has given us so far is to never fall behind. I think the best way to avoid this is to visit and revist the material as often as possible. If I can read and review the material daily then I should be able to retain it easily.

We conclude orientation tomorrow and then its time to hit the books. But before Monday, I plan to party like a rockstar one last time!!!

Orientation

So far, so good!


There are 40+ students in my class, many of whom look like they just graduated from high school! At this point, I am the oldest person in the class, although there are a few that I have yet to talk with that look around my age. I managed to have some meaningful conversations with a few people, and even found a group of older classmates who seemed to have some life experience! How refreshing!

The day ended rather early. We started by filling out lots and lots of paperwork, meeting the faculty and staff, and going over our admission packets with our advisors. I love my advisor! She seems to be a no nonsense type of person, and I like that! We have two more days of orientation, and we begin classes on Monday morning. It's interesting...I'm finally here, settling into graduate studies, living on my own, pursuing the thing I've dreamt of for 2 years. Officially a PA-S!! I must say, it's gratifying to see the fruits of my labor.

I'm so happy to be here, and I'm looking forward to developing as a person and a professional. I'm looking forward to being the best PA I can be.

My Circadian Rhythm

It's pretty much shot to hell. One day I'm up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at 7am, and the next day I'm dragging myself out of bed at 12 noon. It hasn't been easy transitioning from the night shift schedule to a "normal" day schedule, but it must be done. In two weeks I'll have to be up by 7am every morning in order to be in class on time.

I'm still tying up loose strings here in preparation for relocating. Salsa dancing has been priority, of course, and as I see friends and favorite dance partners, I am bidding them farewell. A lot of them had no clue I was going anywhere. I will miss them all dearly! I'm hoping to come back a better, stronger follow, and I hope to master the on2 style while I'm away. My winter wardrobe is complete, and I'm almost done packing. All that's left to do is drive off into the sunset!

For over a year I've been waiting for this blog to trasition to one of a pre-PA to that of a PA-S. I won't claim PA-S yet until my fanny hits the seat on the 20th, but I'm excited to have the opportunity to give future readers an idea of what PA school is like from my perspective. So, my school has been in contact with us regularly since last October. The orientation packets we received gave us a glimpse of what's in store for the next 2 years. We hit the ground running on the 20th with an orientation that lasts 3 days. On the first day we will meet with our advisors to go over any provisions that exist, and we will meet and greet, have lunch with faculty and students, tour our learning facilities, set up our student email accounts, complete a PACKRAT computer lab assignment, get parking decals, complete an overview of clinical rotations, and purchase books. The second day consists of a diversity exercise and study strategy workshops. And the final day will consist of a didactic year overview, a simple group project, and the PACKRAT entrance exam. We officially begin classes on the 25th.

I hope to write one more entry before moving next Friday, and my goal is to update this blog often once I begin school.

So Much To Do

My list of things to do just keeps growing and growing. I'm not complaining, though; I've always enjoyed having lots and lots to do. However, as I mentioned before in a previous post, I had no idea the amount of "housekeeping" that needed to be done prior to the first day of class. I imagine it's a lot of work for students who live close to their respective programs. But for those of us traveling cross country, there are added stressors that make the process much more time consuming.

I've finally finished packing my clothes and shoes. That alone took two hours. I didn't realize how clutered my closet was! I can't let that happen in the new apartment. And the shopping lists...it's funny when you're looking it over and you've got the common sense items on there like soap, shower curtain, and towels, but then you later realize you forgot to put an iron on there! What I don't want is to get snowed in without all of my necessary items. Let's just say I'm glad soap is on the list. I can't go to class funky, but I have no problem wearing wrinkled clothing for a day or two!

The cop has another long stretch of off days. That makes for lots of "us" time, and I'm looking forward to it! He's been so supportive of me, and I appreciate him for that.

Well, my goal this week is to get back on a normal sleeping schedule, so I guess I should retire for the night. Till next time...