My second big medical school exam is this Monday morning. Its a 4 hour computerized test on all of the subjects we are currently taking (Biochemistry, Physiology, Anatomy, Physical Diagnosis...). After not doing too well on the 1st exam, I'm extra motivated to do well on this one. Except its hard not to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information that I need to know. I think I'm actually doing okay though. There are a few topics that I'm still iffy about, so hopefully I can nail down those topics within the next two days.
Although I may have figured out why so many doctors are so socially awkward. My theory is all the studying. Seriously, I feel like I am sacrificing common sense space in my brain to make room for biochemistry.
My roommate Chris was sick the past few days, so I bought a spray bottle of Lysol and sprayed the shit out of the house, especially, the things that I know he touches (Refridgerator, Microwave, Door handles). I also bought Emergen-C and I'm drinking a lot of fluids, in addition to caffeine. The last thing I want to do is get sick before the big exam. Especially getting sick due to another persons negligence.
I'm also looking forward to going home next weekend. Even though its Carmaggedon, which sucks, one of my friends is carpooling with me to LA, so it will be nice to have a buddy on the 4 hour journey. We can also use the time to study...#studyingsucks #thisismylife
September 21, 2012
August 6, 2012
It actually happened
Well, this is what happened today.
The first step in a long, looooong road. Also, that picture is probably one of the most important I have taken in a while. Not only am I stuck with it for the next four years, but it will also be sent to all residency programs I apply to. I freaked out this morning when I woke up with a large pimple and a crazy scratch that I had apparently given to myself in the middle of the night. But luckily none of those show in the picture.
Side note, it rained in the middle of the night. Here are some other crazy things that I learned in Orientation about my new home.
It was a long day, so Lauren (my roommate) and I decided to celebrate medieval style with Argentinian Malbec. (Chris is part of a pool league that plays on Monday evenings and he doesn't start classes until Wednesday, so he was not part of the celebrations unfortunately). Life (so far) is good.
Side note, it rained in the middle of the night. Here are some other crazy things that I learned in Orientation about my new home.
- Sun visors for your car are necessary to make sure you don't burn your hands on steering wheels.
- Don't forget to leave a small crack in your window or else the 130 degrees that it can get in your car will blow out your car windows
- You should also get jumper cables because the heat will destroy your car battery, even if you drive a new car.
August 4, 2012
Hello Las Vegas!
I am currently writing from my new home in Las Vegas (actually Henderson) Nevada. I've been here since Wednesday, but I've only actually been here alone for the past 24 hours when my sister drove home to LA. Luckily, the transition has been very smooth. My room is pseudo completed, just lacking the little personal items that separate it from feeling more home-y. And while the temperature here may suggest hell has finally boiled over, I'm surprised at how I am slowly getting used to the heat. My roommate keeps the AC on, which gives me some anxiety that our utility bill will be outrageous, but I've been told that energy is much cheaper here than in LA, so we'll see what happens.
I'm excited about this first experience having roommates and truly living on my own. I get along well with my roommate Chris and my other roommate Lauren should be arriving anytime in the next few hours. I can't wait for her to get here, so we can meet in person. Also, so that I can finally unpack the rest of my stuff!
Yesterday, Chris and I met up with a few of my classmates at a First Friday event in downtown Las Vegas. It was not an ideal place to meet people for the first time and really get to know others, but it was fun seeing a different side of Vegas. The event was like a fair and Abbott Kinney First Friday combined into one. There was a lot of beer/liquor booths, lots of teens and families, and while there were plenty of food trucks, they were not the kinds I'm used to. My classmates seem pretty fun so far. Somehow we ended up going to Fremont Street, where a promoter got us into a club at the Golden Nugget Hotel called Gold Diggers (Clever). Clearly, the club had lower dress standards (I was wearing shorts and flip flops) and catered to an older clientele where wouldn't you know, Willow--- (I blank on the actual name) High School Class of 1992 was celebrating.
Anywho, school begins on Monday with two full days of Orientation. I'm still in disbelief at this entire situation. I've actually moved away from Los Angeles and my family, I'm actually about to begin the path to becoming a doctor, its all happening, and its all happening in just two more days. I'm so excited and even listening to Celine Dion cover "All by Myself" right now is not ruining the mood. Sorry Celine, not this weekend! But come back in a few weeks when I'm up to my neck with work.
I am going to make an actual effort to regularly post. They probably won't be long posts like I usually do, but it might be fun to look back at the end of med school at these posts.
P.S. I don't have cable or a TV converter box, so I've missed the past few days of the Olympics. Its really heartbreaking because I really want to watch them.
I'm excited about this first experience having roommates and truly living on my own. I get along well with my roommate Chris and my other roommate Lauren should be arriving anytime in the next few hours. I can't wait for her to get here, so we can meet in person. Also, so that I can finally unpack the rest of my stuff!
Yesterday, Chris and I met up with a few of my classmates at a First Friday event in downtown Las Vegas. It was not an ideal place to meet people for the first time and really get to know others, but it was fun seeing a different side of Vegas. The event was like a fair and Abbott Kinney First Friday combined into one. There was a lot of beer/liquor booths, lots of teens and families, and while there were plenty of food trucks, they were not the kinds I'm used to. My classmates seem pretty fun so far. Somehow we ended up going to Fremont Street, where a promoter got us into a club at the Golden Nugget Hotel called Gold Diggers (Clever). Clearly, the club had lower dress standards (I was wearing shorts and flip flops) and catered to an older clientele where wouldn't you know, Willow--- (I blank on the actual name) High School Class of 1992 was celebrating.
Anywho, school begins on Monday with two full days of Orientation. I'm still in disbelief at this entire situation. I've actually moved away from Los Angeles and my family, I'm actually about to begin the path to becoming a doctor, its all happening, and its all happening in just two more days. I'm so excited and even listening to Celine Dion cover "All by Myself" right now is not ruining the mood. Sorry Celine, not this weekend! But come back in a few weeks when I'm up to my neck with work.
I am going to make an actual effort to regularly post. They probably won't be long posts like I usually do, but it might be fun to look back at the end of med school at these posts.
P.S. I don't have cable or a TV converter box, so I've missed the past few days of the Olympics. Its really heartbreaking because I really want to watch them.
March 1, 2012
Work!
As I mentioned in a previous post, I recently started a new position at UCLA. Unlike my previous position at Cedars, which included lots of data entry and study related procedures, this new position really only involves paperwork and staying at my computer. Initially, it was a welcomed change going from being super busy and under appreciated, to being respected and having a healthy workload. However, I have gotten to a point (ie Today) where I have literally finished everything. I've exhausted all and any internet distractions and I've only been here for an hour.
I do recognize that it has only been a little over a month since I started, so I shouldn't expect to have a bunch of responsibilities. But I feel like I should be doing something productive and work related. As much as I love listening to music all day and reading the news. I would enjoy being able to sleep in. Plus, I'm slightly paranoid that they monitor our internet usage.
Luckily, I signed up to attend this talk later during lunch called "Global Health: Are we overpromising?" The speaker William H. Foege is the author of several books and was played a role in eradicating smallpox. Apparently, Dr. Foege is a really famous guy in public health circles. I got an email the other day asking me to print out a ticket for entry, as there is a waiting list to attend this seminar. Even though I don't fully know what this talk is about, I'm excited. There will also be limited copies of his latest book available that he will sign, free of charge. Free. I'll try to get there early and snag myself a copy.
I do recognize that it has only been a little over a month since I started, so I shouldn't expect to have a bunch of responsibilities. But I feel like I should be doing something productive and work related. As much as I love listening to music all day and reading the news. I would enjoy being able to sleep in. Plus, I'm slightly paranoid that they monitor our internet usage.
Luckily, I signed up to attend this talk later during lunch called "Global Health: Are we overpromising?" The speaker William H. Foege is the author of several books and was played a role in eradicating smallpox. Apparently, Dr. Foege is a really famous guy in public health circles. I got an email the other day asking me to print out a ticket for entry, as there is a waiting list to attend this seminar. Even though I don't fully know what this talk is about, I'm excited. There will also be limited copies of his latest book available that he will sign, free of charge. Free. I'll try to get there early and snag myself a copy.
February 27, 2012
February Recap
February was quite an eventful month.
My new job is going well. I've opened up more and so have my other co-workers, so I feel much happier and less lonely. On the other hand, I still don't have much/anything to do, which leaves a lot of time available to listen to music on Spotify, surf the net, and work on this blog. I recently discovered that UCLA offers free fitness classes for staff, so last week I attended a total body fitness class and a pilates class during my lunch break. Both classes were definitely challenging, but its so convenient and nice to get a daily workout done during the day, instead of rushing home and trying to fit in a quick workout before dinner. My hope is the pilates will improve my flexibility, they also offer yoga classes, but they conflict with my weekly lunch dates with Sheila and Beth, so well see. I'm also planning to use the 25% off discount that UCLA Extension offers staff to take French.
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As many of you also know, I am a big fan of Cirque Du Soleil. Its a pricey hobby/interest, but I enjoy it so much. One of their touring shows, OVO is currently in Santa Monica for the Winter. I got ticket to go for Christmas from my newly married sister and my brother-in-law, so we finally went on the 17th. Each show is so unique and fresh and OVO is no exception. The theme for this particular show was insects. The costumes were amazing and the choreography was clearly insect-inspired. The last time Cirque was in Santa Monica, I was the lucky audience member to be pulled on stage by the clowns during the show. It was a memorable experience I will never forget. I secretly wanted to be pulled on stage during OVO, but alas I was not. They picked another man instead and he probably did a more entertaining job than I would have been able to pull off. Definitely check out OVO if you are given the chance. I wonder if Cirque hires physicians for their traveling shows....
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Trying not to sound too dramatic, but life-changing news, I got into Medical School! Words can't adequately describe the combination of joy, excitement, and relief that I felt and continue to feel. So this means that in a few months time, I will be leaving LA to begin classes at Touro University Nevada. I'm excited to move to a new city for the first time and begin this next chapter of my life.
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So as you can see, February has been quite the month so far.
My new job is going well. I've opened up more and so have my other co-workers, so I feel much happier and less lonely. On the other hand, I still don't have much/anything to do, which leaves a lot of time available to listen to music on Spotify, surf the net, and work on this blog. I recently discovered that UCLA offers free fitness classes for staff, so last week I attended a total body fitness class and a pilates class during my lunch break. Both classes were definitely challenging, but its so convenient and nice to get a daily workout done during the day, instead of rushing home and trying to fit in a quick workout before dinner. My hope is the pilates will improve my flexibility, they also offer yoga classes, but they conflict with my weekly lunch dates with Sheila and Beth, so well see. I'm also planning to use the 25% off discount that UCLA Extension offers staff to take French.
-----------------------------------------------
As many of you also know, I am a big fan of Cirque Du Soleil. Its a pricey hobby/interest, but I enjoy it so much. One of their touring shows, OVO is currently in Santa Monica for the Winter. I got ticket to go for Christmas from my newly married sister and my brother-in-law, so we finally went on the 17th. Each show is so unique and fresh and OVO is no exception. The theme for this particular show was insects. The costumes were amazing and the choreography was clearly insect-inspired. The last time Cirque was in Santa Monica, I was the lucky audience member to be pulled on stage by the clowns during the show. It was a memorable experience I will never forget. I secretly wanted to be pulled on stage during OVO, but alas I was not. They picked another man instead and he probably did a more entertaining job than I would have been able to pull off. Definitely check out OVO if you are given the chance. I wonder if Cirque hires physicians for their traveling shows....
-----------------------------------------------
Trying not to sound too dramatic, but life-changing news, I got into Medical School! Words can't adequately describe the combination of joy, excitement, and relief that I felt and continue to feel. So this means that in a few months time, I will be leaving LA to begin classes at Touro University Nevada. I'm excited to move to a new city for the first time and begin this next chapter of my life.
-----------------------------------------------
So as you can see, February has been quite the month so far.
February 9, 2012
No Neglect
"No Neglect" is my lame New Years Resolution/2012 motto. Its to remind me not to neglect things that are important to me, such as my friends/family, my personal health, any responsibilities or commitments that I make, my personal finances...you get the point.
One of the things I have definitely neglected is this blog. At this point, it has been about 7 months since my last post, which is pretty shameful. I've been inspired to keep this updated by my friends' blog/tumblr and other blogs that Dominique and I would waste time at work looking at. Aiming to update once each week and keep each post short and sweet.
Anywho, two important things have happened over the past 7 months
1. I quit Cedars and now work at UCLA: Although I sacrificed having fun times with a best friend each day, I'm enjoying my time at UCLA.
2. Med School: Cross your fingers! I may get in somewhere soon. I may not. It's stressful and sometimes I want to scream, but everything happens for a reason. I just hope it involves me starting school in August.
That's all folks!
One of the things I have definitely neglected is this blog. At this point, it has been about 7 months since my last post, which is pretty shameful. I've been inspired to keep this updated by my friends' blog/tumblr and other blogs that Dominique and I would waste time at work looking at. Aiming to update once each week and keep each post short and sweet.
Anywho, two important things have happened over the past 7 months
1. I quit Cedars and now work at UCLA: Although I sacrificed having fun times with a best friend each day, I'm enjoying my time at UCLA.
2. Med School: Cross your fingers! I may get in somewhere soon. I may not. It's stressful and sometimes I want to scream, but everything happens for a reason. I just hope it involves me starting school in August.
That's all folks!
July 22, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge- Days 6-10
I'm combining the past 4 days of the challenge into one blog post since I fell behind due to secondaries.
Day 8: A song you know all the words to
You would think writing about yourself would be easy. Let me tell you, it's not. It's a lot more stressful than I initially imagined.
Day 6: A song that reminds you of someplace.
Natalie Merchant-My Skin
I don't hear this song very often (thank God!) But whenever I do, I'm immediately think back to Summer 2007 when I was an Orientation Counselor. I specifically think of the cold tile floor of Moore 100 at about 10am on Day 3. All the lights are off and I'm watching a powerpoint slideshow about rape, which begins our wellness presentation.
Day 7: A song that reminds you of a certain event
Any song by Armin Van Buuren
I think of the Electric Daisy Carnival 2010. Anna, Nina and I had so much fun; Great people watching, Great music. Armin came on after midnight and it was such a great way to end a memorable day.
Day 8: A song you know all the words to
The Little Mermaid-Part of your world
Really, who doesn't know all the words to Disney songs? The Little Mermaid happens to be my favorite Disney movie. I liked all the songs in the movie, but if I had to pick my favorite, it would be this one.
Day 9: A song you can dance to
Jin Go Lo Ba- Fatboy Slim
Buy Just Dance and Just Dance 2 and you will understand.
Day 10: A song that makes you fall asleep
Rainbow Connection- Kermit the Frog
The Sarah McLachlan version is even more sleep inducing.
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