We were warned– summer semester would be difficult. Having clinic for the first time, a full schedule of classes and fighting the urge to skip out on studying and enjoy the sunshine. It was difficult to find the perfect balance between the three the whole time. The classes we were taking weren’t the hardest combination out of every semester so far; it was just the addition of clinic that threw off my studying schedule. It was hard to find the motivation and energy to study after a morning of classes and afternoon in the clinic. However, you always find a way to do what is needed to succeed and make it through! Now I’m relishing in the week of no classes and just clinic before we have our second Keystone course. I’m not trying to be negative, just realistic—summer was hard! But so many people before us were able to do it and future students will do just the same.
Being in clinic for the first time was so nerve-wracking. I was full of nervous energy, shaking and fumbling. After getting over the anxiousness, I could focus more on the exam portions, piece together the results and work on treatment plans in my head. I quickly learned that it was okay to make mistakes, as long as you learn from them. All the attendings are very understanding because they’ve all been in our position. They know you need to take your time and ask a lot of questions in the beginning and don’t expect perfection. In every situation, they’ve made me feel more comfortable and confident. They truly are there to help you learn so it’s best to take in all the advice and tips that you can. Each attending holds the Opt III interns to a high standard and expects their best but everyone has been very capable of meeting those standards because of all the training and practice we put in second year. As the semester progressed, I could see myself improve in efficiency and decision-making each week. My experience this semester has been so positive and I hope it continues in my rotations throughout the year.
Right now, I’m looking forward to the start of fall semester. I love the beginning of the year because it’s a celebration for the incoming class, full of meeting new people and making new memories. I also can’t wait for the start of football season—Go Bucks! For now, I’m just going to enjoy the rest of my summer with some classic Ohio summer excitement at Cedar Point and an Indians game! Can’t wait to update my blog on the start of the year!