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.