1. Introduction to the Anatomy lab
2. Alumni presentation from Dr. Daniel Kemple
Upon being accepted to medical school I knew I would have to master human anatomy, and I couldn't wait. Having been extremely fortunate enough to have taken it as an undergraduate student, I knew I would love it. As students, we are required to wear green scrubs as our uniform anytime we are in the anatomy lab. The faculty and other staff members wear black to denote the difference between "master" and student. I had worn scrubs before in various roles, but this was the first time I was wearing scrubs as a medical student. That feeling was indescribable. Once in the lab, we went through policies and procedures, expectations of staff, faculty and students within the lab, oriented ourselves with all the tools and equipment, and became comfortable with the space. The facility is absolutely amazing; nicer even than the anatomy lab at the University of Minnesota. After all this was over, we were given the chance, if we so chose, to meet our first patients. To put this experience into words is honestly impossible. Knowing that this person made a deliberate choice to further my education and afford me the opportunity to pursue my dream is extremely humbling. At the end of the semester the school invites the family members of our patients to a ceremony during which we honor their loved ones and thank them for playing such a critical role in our education. I can't wait to have this chance to meet my patient's family, and attempt to put into words how incredibly grateful I am.
The second presentation was given by Dr. Daniel Kemple. A 2013 RUSM graduate who just completed his intern year in Emergency Medicine in Ohio, Dr. Kemple provided some amazing insights into what we can expect, how we should approach studying, the importance of all the STEP exams in landing the coveted residency spot we all want, and how best to utilize our faculty for help as we need it. Seeing that he made it through, and not only landed his top residency choice, but was voted "Best Intern," showed me that despite the long, arduous road ahead, it's completely doable. The best piece of advice I got from him; however, was to "experience the island." A fellow classmate posted a video the other day that really rang true to this advice. The last couple weeks have been incredible, and I feel so fortunate to have had the time to get out and see the island. Granted, it's really only the tip of the iceberg of what Dominica has to offer, but it was a great introduction and motivation to continue "seeing" the island. Despite knowing that my time will be limited over the next several months and that I won't be able to take much time to venture out to the "big" sights, the little things I see and do each day are just as much experiencing the island as driving an hour away. For a lot of people, living on "The Rock," as Dominica is affectionately called, is more of a chore. They can't wait to get off the island and go back to what they know. Back to being able to find whatever they want at the grocery store. Back to not having to plan your electricity usage over the weekend because they may run out at the store (or the store isn't open for you to buy more). Back to not waiting an hour to get your food when you eat out (or watching your friends eat while you still wait). Don't get me wrong, I completely understand where these feelings come from, and would be lying if I didn't have moments when I wished that I didn't have to worry about these things. On the other hand, these are the things that make Dominica, well, Dominica. Being able to wake up in the morning, look out my kitchen window and see the Caribbean Sea. Knowing that forgetting my umbrella when I leave home in the morning is the biggest mistake I could make- it WILL rain. Walking into a restaurant having only visited once and having the owner and/ or server recognize me and maybe even remember my name. These are the things that I don't ever want to take for granted throughout the 16 months I call The Rock my home away from home. I know there will be times when I just want to be home with my friends and family, but trying to keep these things in mind and embrace them instead of resenting them will help diffuse my homesickness.
In the interest of time and necessity to preview for tomorrow's lectures, I will leave you with a list of 9 firsts (and some pictures) that I have experienced over the last two weeks. Enjoy! :)
1. First lunch at The Shacks (basically a row of shacks on campus that sell different kinds of food and drink- the best juice I have ever had)
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| Chicken Pita....delicious! |
2. First time eating Lionfish (and lobster that a couple classmates caught with a local Dominican)
3. First time attending a Reggae festival
4. First time seeing both the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean at the same time
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| Scott's Head on the southern point of the island Caribbean on the left, Atlantic on the right |
5. First time eating Cassava bread
6. First time taking a hot shower
7. First time having a pet that I didn't voluntarily purchase (I have two geckos in my apartment)
8. First time seeing SimMan and Harvey for use in our clinical skills labs
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| SimMan |
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| Harvey used to practice listening for heart sounds |
Until next time, and with much love.
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