Tuesday, December 21, 2010

The Road to Residency in Pictures

My Driving Buddy

SNOW!

MORE SNOW!!!!

Primanti Bros Genoa Salami and Egg
Only Italian people would think to do this to a sandwich.

Original Location on 18th

I saw so much freaking SNOW!

Snow, again.

Ok, when I got home I made cookies with my niece. This cookie had a head injury, now known as head trauma victim.   The boy said it was delicious.

Niece with her cookies.            





































































































Happy Holidays!

Monday, December 20, 2010

The Road to Residency

Hello All. I'm sure I'm with everyone else on the whole "holy freaking jesus I've been interviewing for the past 2 months and now it needs to be over NOW". I had booked 12 interviews, but will end up cancelling 1 (if I ever stop procrastinating) so I will end up with 11 total. I have 2 more left in Jan and then I AM DONE. So, I will run down my 9 interviews. And you know I've met some weirdos.

Interview #1: I was nervous as hell and now looking back I should have been a huge bitch. But, it was my first and I was so worried about making a good impression and them liking me (yeah, should have just walked out after lunch.). So I fly out, stayed in a hotel which I had to pay for (you will come to see that most places paid for my hotel) then get to the interview to be blindsided. The entire worst part was the fact that for lunch they ordered PAPA JOHN'S PIZZA (yes, you read right) and then the residents took ALL the garlic sauce for themselves and didn't even offer to share with anyone. Now, it was my impression that interviews are somewhat of a recruitment tool. Most places have taken me somewhere nice or even just fed me the catered cafeteria food. But fast food pizza? seriously? come on people. Besides, the residents were weird, talked amongst themselves and pretty much ignored the 3 of us during lunch. Then, one of my interviewers took me to the cafeteria to interview me. ok, kinda weird. then proceeded to sit down, NOT LOOK AT ME (he looked off in the corner and made no eye contact), act like a jackass, and just went "so what questions do you have for me" without any tell me about yourself or anything. I left that interview petrified that all of them would be like that. Really BAD experience.

Interview Dos: Well, it was the home institution. Reaffirmed how much I love the faculty, LOVE the residents, LOVE LOVE LOVE everyone. It really has shown me that our med school has a kicking path program (it's probably one of the better programs I've seen).

Interview Three: This is the awesome of awesome stories. Being in path, most of my itineraries for the interview day come a couple of days before. Well, I flew out the day before my interview. That morning I didn't have anything in my email from the program. So I email the secretary explaining that I haven't gotten an itinerary yet and will be traveling for the entire day and won't be able to check it until I get into town that night. So I get in around 630 pm and there is STILL NO EMAIL. So I start calling the dept hoping to find someone still there. I get nothing. So, with my interview that next day I don't know where to be, what time to be there, nothing. I start flipping my shit. So with the good council of some friends, I got up the next morning, got all dressed and ready, then started phone bombing the dept until I talked to a person. I basically was told that I needed to be there RIGHT THEN (at 8 am) and they'll tell the secretary I'll be late and to just head in. I took a cab to the hospital and made it to the dept by 8:05 am. The secretary didn't show up until 8:30. She then proceeded to tell me that she didn't have me down on her schedule and must have "overlooked" my reply email confirming my interview date. Plus, she had taken the day off the previous day and didn't get my "holy crap" email until that morning. But it was "okay" and they "threw together" an interview day for me since I was already there. By the time I got to the program director there was apology after apology how it had never happened before and I will definitely be remembered (in a good way). I was thanked for being persistent and coming in anyway. Luckily the people there were nice and the program had a home institution feel to it. Although my adrenaline was flowing!

Interview IV: Place set me up as far as hotels. I had my own suite! It would have been nice to have the boy there with me. Dad and I actually drove (whenever I drive he wants to come. I've found that we have an 8hr limit. After that we start bickering in the car). The residents were nice but I didn't get that "click" and the program director  kept talking about how he wished one of the now pathology attendings at my institution would have gone there instead. So it was a little awkward. But everyone was nice. And took us out the night before and for lunch. Both to awesome places. they do it right. Otherwise it was an uneventful interview. Had to drive straight back in the TERRIBLE weather to take my review of histo test the next day. That I ended up passing by some grace of God.

Interviews 5-8 were in one massive 2 week long voyage. By 8 I was missing home and the boy so much I let my hair down and just didn't care anymore!

Interview 5: The residents and faculty were cool. I really clicked with one resident over our love of kidney path and lack of daily proprioception completely sober. No weirdness whatsoever on the program part. There was a DO student with us that took some away rotations at the institution. She just acted like she was a shoe-in and kinda like an ass at times in my opinion. Oh well. It was a good experience.

Interview 6: Again, nothing impressive. It was way up north and the snow was taller than I was. it was the first interview where I was the only one that day. Which was weird to have all the attention just on me. I only met 3 residents while there, which seemed odd. They took me to lunch at a nice place with awesome dessert. One resident was a little too enthusiastic about me, and kept saying "oh PLEASE come here!". And the chairman wasn't there and I'm supposed to have an interview set up over the phone but it was never followed through... oh well. I even got a parting gift from this place (one and only time) but except the chocolate I couldn't take any of it with me. Mainly because I refused to pack anything bigger than a carry-on because airlines are out of their mind for charging $25 bucks a pop for checking in a bag. Since I only had a carry on it was stuffed to the max and the large jar of some local sauce wouldn't have been kosher on the plane.

Interview 7: Let's just say that if I hadn't taken the hotel shuttle to the interview I would have just walked out halfway through the interview. When I met with the Program director she proceeded to tell me how the 3rd year residents go to mandatory board review classes paid for by the program because residents were FAILING THEIR BOARDS. Plus, all the residency positions were funded 100% by medicare and therefore they had a cap enforced by the government. So, no internal funding of resident spots. Then, they'll be merging with several other hospitals in the area, and the residents will just "absorb" the increased workload. And the only way to get pediatric path exposure was to go to a DIFFERENT STATE. Yeah, I wish I had just walked out. Plus there was one resident with the personality of a saltine cracker and another who made it clear this wasn't his first choice. Or he may have scrambled for all I know.

Interview 8: Not too bad, kinda ho-hum. Largest group with 5 interviewees. One girl was late getting to the shuttle in the morning but we all ended up getting there on time. She was weird, she was laying on the couch during the pre-interview appetizers the night before. Plus she looked chronically pissed off and her hair was a mess and honey child could have used some foundation and lip gloss. Just sayin'. and there was one guy who didn't say a word until, oh, lunch the next day. Weirdest group of fellow interviewees by far. I think the most offsetting point of the program was the response of "Well, most of them are...." to the question "are the attendings approachable". Yeah, red flag of malignant attendings. And it was a program that the response to having a kid during residency was "Well, they can't STOP you from getting pregnant". Other than that they were all friendly and normal.

Interview 9: I drove to it with my dad. It was uneventful except for the fact that I think I walked away with a vicious cold as a parting gift. I got a lot of "we like you come here" and promises of "if you come here we'll do _____ for you". Which was a first. And I interviewed with a WEIRD person.  Very socially awkward. But nice.

So that wraps up the interview trail so far. I have two more places. Then Match day. I can't wait. I just hope I get my #1 choice. I hope we all do.

Picture post of my travels to follow!

Monday, November 1, 2010

Speak Freely

As many of you have noticed, my blog had been on semi-lockdown due to a recent stink over blogs and being a "medical professional". With all of that I had to really sit down and think about whether to continue my blog or not. There is such a stink lately about medical, celebrity, and regular people and social networking sites. My personal opinion on all of this is that in a way, we are guaranteed freedom of speech and press. So really, we cannot be prosecuted over our opinions stated out loud or in print (by the federal government). Granted, privileged information such as patients names, conditions, etc should be protected. But what about our thoughts and opinions on subjects? Or our personal views on what is happening on a specific rotation? Why are we, as medical professionals, held to a standard where our thoughts and opinions must be censored because someone may get offended?

That must have been outlined in the fine print where I signed away my rights when I entered medical school.

So with that, I've decided to continue my blog. Granted, I have now prevented people from typing me into a search engine and finding me. I will say this: if you read my blog and get offended you have one of two choices:
1. come to me personally and explain why you are offended. I'm all about people voicing their opinions.
2. Stop reading. If you don't like what I say, don't come back. This is me exercising my right to have opinions and post them freely. I abide by HIPAA protocols and never reveal patient names or any other identifying information. Names have been changed to protect privacy and unless you were there or know specifically who people are, you don't know who I'm talking about. If you think I may be talking about you and you get offended, see choice #1. if that is not an option, then reference section 1 of choice #2 : STOP READING.

Ok, with all that now said, I will update the blogworld with my doings.

I finished anesleesia. It was definitely not my cup of tea. By the 3rd mock "mega code" I resorted to being sarcastic and caustic. It was ridiculous. I understand that there is a time and place for such codes, and it's great practice, but I will never run a code. And those who will may need this, oh, first week of intern year. Because none of us will remember the things outlined in the past 3 mega codes. Just my opinion.

Now on review of histology. Pretty great so far. I have some blackboard modules and access to a slide box and the histo lab. I also have 4 interviews this month so I'll be sure to keep up with all that. First one is next week on the 10th and I am scared! I'm sure I'll become more comfortable once I get one interview under my belt, but I'm so worried I'll screw it up. I've set my limit at 15 but I don't think I'll want to do that many.

Things with the boy are going well. He even came to the Halloween party (and for all you losers that didn't go, you missed out on meeting him!). So far everyone seems to like him which is good. He's definitely turning out to be a keeper! We really don't talk about the whole interview and match day thing, except for we'll just deal with whatever comes when it comes.

Hope everyone else in blog land is doing well! Adios for now.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Total Pain

On pain clinic this week. Ugh. I'm really glad my partner is a slacker like me, because we totally just disappeared at 11 this morning. Love it. Talked to some other fellow M4's that are just doing a pain month, and they told me to not even worry about showing up to morning rounds. No one will notice. Sweet! So I get to sleep in and just show up to 8 am clinic. Booya. However, the African attending offended me within 5 minutes (first he called me a pharmacy student, then when I said I was in med school and pharmaceutics wasn't my "area" he proceeded to tell a condescending story about Jonah and the Whale. He basically was like "you're immature not stepping up" and I'm like "I'M NOT A FUCKING PHARMACIST!"). However, his accent is awesome and I like hearing him talk. Totally not paying attention to what he says, but his accent is pretty awesome.

Ok, so I will say I'm trying really really really hard to get the boy out to meet everyone. Down sides include 1. He's in starkville working all week 2. he has 3 younger sisters he frequently takes care of 3. All of the above prevents us from having a lot of alone time so I tend to get selfish with him. I think I may attack him with a camera and post some pics so everyone can at least see what he looks like. We became official sometime last week? (yeah, that whole anniversary thing isn't happening from my end haha). He is super sweet to me, seems to like my feisty in-your-face personality, has the cutest smile and makes me laugh. Apparently I can't stop smiling whenever I'm talking or thinking about him. I'm completely smitten. Any more than that, you'll have to ask. I hate sitting and gushing because I could go on and on (and I'll do it).

Got a lot of my interviews booked. Still haven't heard from UMC. Really getting nervous. I'm sure they are just one of the many programs that send out invites later, but I won't feel better until I get my invite. I"m getting kinda nervous and almost like "ugh, I don't want to do this" but it has to be done. I'm glad everyone else is getting a bunch of interviews and I absolutely cannot WAIT until match day. Woo!

Time for bed, went running tonight and i am pooped!

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Well FML



Day two of anesleesia. And it's torture. I'm at the hospital at about 0645, and today didn't leave until 5. It's like freaking surgery or medicine hours. And then I just stood there for 2 hours during an ortho case that used fluoro. So that meant lead vest. When I asked the surgeons if they were using a stool that was set off in the corner they said "yeah, maybe, if we do something with the leg later" so that meant "no, you can't have it". Luckily my resident wasn't all about students so I just bounced and took a 1 1/2 hour lunch. Ugh, this month is NOT going to be fun. Not wanting to intubate or anything. I want to get my 3 checkoffs done and call it a month. I'm starting to realized I should have done an ICU month. At least that way I could get home by 12 and not have stupid simulations, ACLS every time I turn around, and have to sit through resident lectures that I could care less about but still have to stay awake. Yeah, that glazed over look is me picturing myself on a beach in Fiji.

Got my first rejection today. At first I found it funny, but then I started freaking out because I still haven't gotten my UMC interview. Granted, one of the residents told me hers didn't come until later, but I'm still spazzing. Especially since I'm wanting to stay. What if UMC doesn't want me? Ugh, I need a hug.



Things with boy are still going well. Slowly introducing him to people. He's really cute (or at least I think so) and treats me better than I probably deserve. I'm pretty smitten.

Now with some pics of my cute nephew at his soccer game at which I got roasted. (he's the cute little blonde in the green)

Kicking the ball



Yeah, we may have to talk about how you can't use your hands in soccer

Trying to get the ball away from the team

Niece got bored and did head stands  


And as always, KITTY ON TOP OF BOX TOWER

Friday, October 1, 2010

Free Friday

I feel like I'm playing hookie today. The anesthesia dept didn't want to start up their rotation on a friday I suppose, so Monday is orientation. I'm not looking forward to doing a month of something I have no interest in (especially since it'll mean early mornings) but I suppose anything is better than having to do surgery. Plus I know I'll get all my sign offs done, so that's good.

Things with boy are so far so good. Slowly introducing him to people. Still think we're in that "hang out and talk" mode. I'm trying to let go and enjoy instead of freaking out about impending Match Day and all that it entails.

All is well on the application front. Hopefully I'll just get to stay at UMC but we'll see. I'm going to try to do things in the cities I visit so there may be an interview trail picture post when the time comes.

Oh, and I'm also trying to decide what to dress up as for halloween. Unfortunately growing up halloween was "go dig through your closet and come up with something creative. I'm not buying you a costume" so I've never really gotten into the spirit. So maybe this year I'll actually go buy something. I'm going to try to tag along with the niece and nephew while they trick or treat (omg the cutest things you've ever seen kids do) and then maybe the halloween party at H&M's or out with friends? I dunno. we'll see.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Wha Whaaa!

Micro for the rest of the month. Got to say it hasn't been my favorite. Which is ok, gotta have that one thing you don't absolutely love, don't you? But everyone is nice, and the lab is stinky. I feel like I need a decontamination shower after being back there.

Got more interviews. I'm thinking about not accepting one. Even the email was super high strung and listed out things I needed to include in my email, as well as the fact that the Residency Director or Chair will be personally calling me to find out what my research and career interests are so I can get set up with the correct people or something like that. Yeah, I don't think so. Kinda scary.

Tonight will comprise of chocolate cake baking for a friend's birthday, and going over and over my presentation. I'm house sitting again this weekend, and I'm hoping I may convince boy to come and watch movie again with me. Yes, it's just an excuse to cuddle, but he's really cute. I'm trying really hard this time to not come on strong (we kinda dated-ish in the past. it was my idea and I feel that this time it needs to be on his terms). Yeah, really cute.

Not looking forward to anesthesia next month. Oh well, gotta do what we gots to do.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Smitten

Hematopathology this week. Been working with one of the docs I asked for a rec letter. Hopefully I've stepped up my game and I'll get a good one. I'm even doing a presentation at end of the month conference on Hemoglobin SC disease (two letters, you'd appreciate this one!). I'm kinda pumped, and trying REALLY hard to make sure I don't have a really long talk. I want to go into sickle cell and just plain hemoglobin C disease, but that can't happen. They told me to keep it under 10 min. I think I can do that if I talk fast (which I usually do when I'm nervous). Right now it's looking like about 10-15 slides so I should make it. I believe I'm completely smitten with this idea of being a pathology professor one day. I've really enjoyed coming up with a presentation.

So I'm absolutely loving CP. Have I mentioned that lately? haha. Oh, and the interview invites have started, mainly with a lot of the East Coast programs (which is what I was told to suspect according to SDN) and a select few southern programs have sent me the email "we're reviewing your application and you should heard from us starting by this date". So it's exciting! Hopefully I'll have a job in path by March 17th!

I believe that I shall be jinxing myself, but you know how the minute you swear off guys, and plan to be single then start looking after "residency settles in a routine", is the minute you find someone?

Yeah, guess who that happened to.

But that's all I'm saying about that.

Off to look up some numbers and google photos for my presentation.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Coagulation/Chemistry has been what's up this week. It hasn't been bad, but not the most hoppin' service either. Mainly just wait around for consults. Plus, the dept is getting accredited this month, so everyone is in a tizzy to do all their paperwork and to makes sure everything is up to snuff.

Coag is the other part of path (besides cytopath) that has patient interaction. I went on 2 consults. One was straight forward, the other was a bit more complicated. For some reason the pt really liked to talk to me. Lucky me. I know his head hurt, and it's frustrating when nothing takes away the pain, but 1. I can't do anything for that, especially write for any painkillers seeing how I'm still a student 2. when you describe the pain occuring/worsening when looking INTO THE SUN, here's a novel idea: don't do that. ugh. he was nice tho, and I hope all goes well with him.

I got my application turned in (woo!) and even got an interview request (double woot!). So I'm pretty pumped. I spent all day yesterday suit shopping and may have even found one. I also had to order some nice and unfortunately very expensive shoes. They are much needed, but still. I never thought I'd pay that much for shoes. Since I have such small messed up hobbit feet, they had to special order me a small size. Yeah, i hate my feet.

I'm also out of the house for a while (yay!) as I house sit for my friend. Her dog is strange as it's petrified of people, but then will randomly come up to me and lick my feet/calves/hand. But don't you dare try to pet him! It's like you came at him with a baseball bat. Silly dog, he's a rescue so I dunno guess he had some traumatizing events as a young one.

This weekend has been fun. Random thing: Friday during lunch I thought I saw one of my old friends at the U (most random place EVER for him to be btw). Eventually we recognized each other. We even hung out Fri night and I saw another old friend as well. It was SO nice catching up with both of them. One just moved back to town, the other has been around and finally got a job he enjoys. We went out on a boat and spent a bunch of time catching up and just having fun. I always forget how much I miss people until I actually get to see them. It's so easy for me to get lost in school, responsibilities, and everything else that I just so easily lose touch with people. It's never on purpose, just happens when I get so focused on one thing (mainly my career) that unfortunately people just get lost in the wake. But I'm so happy I got to catch up and see them. I'll have to make it a point to make sure I keep my end up and stay in touch. I love both of those guys so much! It was definitely the highlight of my week (maybe a tie with my interview invitation).

So with that I'm going to hang out, perhaps watch another movie (genius here watched 2 scary movies then realized I'm in a house, by myself, with a dog that refuses to get in the bed with me and make me feel safe. I either 1. need to find a guy friend that's not opposed to coming and cuddling with me under such circumstances or 2. Steal Red or Blue from my fellow pathfriend.

Oh, and Two Letter: I WANT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR HOT DATE! :)

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Done!

30 programs and lots of money later, I am officially a AP/CP pathology categorical applicant!

Wish me luck. I'm going to go and find somewhere to vomit.

Friday, September 3, 2010

ERAS makes me have the sads

So for all of you outside the medicine world, it's Sept 3. Meaning I've had 3 full days to submit my residency application to various institutions. And I'm.Too.Chicken.  I've spent the last 4 years building up to this moment.. And it's like "this is it?". It's exciting and terrifying. I'm absolutely terrified at this moment. Mainly because it's stressful thinking that I could still get turned down. I thought we were done with that point in our lives! Why am I still having to compete and vie for a position now? I have a passion! I have a drive! I have the career that is perfect for me! Ugh, I think my hair may be falling out. I'm giving myself until Monday. Monday will be last day to submit. Of course not everyone is privy to the Path residency application issue this year. There is a possibility there will be 7 (SEVEN) people doing path this year. 1. I think this is GREAT. I think everyone should do path because it is the best specialty EVER 2. Oh s*@#& there are only 2 spots here. What if it's that competitive everywhere this year? What if I don't get in anywhere? What if I have to scramble? What if I scramble into anything BUT path.

See why I'm stressed?

Other than that I'm on my clinical path rotation. I'm loving it so far! I'm on blood bank this week, and I got to tour the local blood services place. it was amazing! I could see myself doing blood bank one day. Totally cool. When I get back from the long weekend I get to follow a bag of blood from collection to recipient (kinda, as much as the med school can do). HOW AWESOME IS THAT?! I was honestly a little reserved about the clinical side, thinking I wouldn't enjoy it as much as anatomic. Now I'm sure I'm going to enjoy getting AP/CP trained.. woo!

I also enjoy being back at the "U". I've been away at the family medicine clinics doing my ambulatory rotation. I was so removed from everyone! I got lonely at times eating lunch by myself. Kinda sad. But now I have people to eat with. Even though I'm feeling a bit withdrawn, I think it'll be ok. I"m afraid that my neurosis about applications is coming off as "I'm rubbing it all in your face" instead of "I'm freaking out and need someone to tell me it's ok". Ugh, I hate this.

Ok, well, I'm going to go watch more of "I love the 80's"  (ok, seriously, best decade ever! I'm thinking of wearing my hair totally 80's from now on now that it's long enough) and maybe lay in bed and watch a movie. Tomorrow entails laundry and gym and sleeping. Yes. Perfect weekend.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Want


I have the oddest feeling my computer is about to crap out. If it can just hold on for about, oh, 6 months after I start my residency then I can buy the good stuff.

August is almost over. I will have to thank the FM dept for *nicely* trying to convince me to not do pathology. I can't wait to do my clinical path month, I still need 1 more letter of rec. The gym has been going well, although I'm still too chicken to do spin class just yet. Thought I need to work on some cardio/strength training for a while before jumping into spin. Don't want to make a total fool of myself in front of the entire class by going into cardiac arrest.

Can we hit the "easy" button and just have match day magically appear?


Saturday, August 21, 2010

August is almost over. Yay! I'm one more month closer to being done, being out of the house, and being on my second path month! Clinic has been very challenging for me, especially since I don't like clinic. There was one couple this past week that literally talked for about 20 straight minutes. After that I was so drained I just wanted to go home, shut myself into my room, and not talk to anyone. One more week, I can do it!

Speaking of clinic, seems like I've either caught some stomach bug or eaten an egg full of Salmonella. Which is why I'm unfortunately missing High Energy's reception :( I was really looking forward to it, but I feel like poo and my stomach cannot be trusted. I'm sure she and her new hubby will have a wonderful time! I'm totally pumped for her. That also means I didn't go to free clinic and now I HAVE to go next weekend to make my FM requirement.

So, did anyone realize it's going to be September in about another week? Yikes! I still have to get 2 more letters. Kinda freaking. GOT to get those done next week. Will probably miss another morning of clinic. Blah.

Hope everyone's rotations are going well.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

And I run

I run so far awaaaaay.

I'm doing better after my little rant. I think people just get too wound up with stereotypes and their own personal opinions and don't see the forest for the trees. I'm sorry for anyone who was in the wake of my rage. No worries, I'm still doing pathology no doubts.

Anywhoo, clinic has been entertaining this week. My favorite was the Dilaudid druggie who ran (literally RAN) out of clinic when security was called. We just wanted him to leave, but I suppose he thought he was going to be arrested. his story as to why he's had multiple doctors write him Rx's and had them filled at multiple pharmacies was that his identical twin brother stole his identity. Priceless. I have a deep, seething hate for drug addicts. At the same time I have a pity for them as well. Mainly, we'll get you help, but I don't appreciate your crap. Give it up. I also have the power of a very confrontational personality on my side.

I'm looking forward to next month. I'll be back in the path dept. i'm not looking forward to sending my application (it's almost Sept ALREADY?!) and asking for the last few rec letters. My meeting with the dept chair went well, and he enthusiastically agreed to write me a letter. I really do love the path chair. He's an amazing teacher and so supportive. I wanted to give him a hug, but I feel that it would have made the whole meeting awkward. I'll be getting my second path letter sometime next week, and I need to find someone to get me a letter from another dept. My medicine attending hasn't answered back, but I may get one from the family medicine people. I've got 26 places on my list right now. I think I exhausted all the places where I'd be ok living for the next 4 years.

Enough of talking about things that make me want to drink.

Joined a local gym (again) today because 1. the school gym stinks and 2. school gym parking stinks worse. I didn't like the fact I had to wait until 5 pm every day in order to park by the gym. Or anywhere near the gym. I'm pretty disgruntled by the parking situation at UMC anyway. Although, I'm excited about Spin class. I've always wanted to try it, and they have one at 530 pm on weekdays. I'm definitely going to try to go tomorrow. Hopefully I'll survive! haha. I gotta get more serious about my whole new year's resolution to run a 5k this year. Maybe the Blues 5k in December?

Catch you on the flip side.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Pity Party

I'm just going to take a minute and whine about my life. Why is it that the ONE year I'm applying for residency everyone and their mother wants to freaking do path? I mean, NO ONE did it last year. Now there's a guaranteed FOUR people doing it. WHY ME? And I'm getting pretty fed up with people telling me that I'm too not socially retarded to do path. I should do medicine. Ugh. Fine. I'll tell patients how I really feel, sit and look at you with a "you're an idiot" face and then fail to respond appropriately to any questions. Will that make everyone ELSE feel better about me doing path? ugh. And don't get me started on my residency application. My CV is as fluffed as it's going to be. No, I didn't win who's who for medical school, or get some fancy award. I'm a vanilla (literally) average run of the mill student. I'm sure the same 5 people are getting all the awards, just like it was in high school and undergrad. And I'm sorry I didn't make a 270 on Step 1. And  score still isn't good enough and puts me below average for pathology. Meaning I should apply for 30 or so programs, to make sure I can rank no less than 8 (preferably 11) programs. Which, if EVERYONE didn't decide to do path, I wouldn't be in this situation anyway.

F my life.

Can you tell my dean's meeting wasn't what I expected?

In other news, I'm still chugging along with my Family Medicine clinic rotation. It's my last week at one clinic, then i'll be switching and going to the other. I'm also in the business of trying to get rec letters. I have a meeting with the dept chair tomorrow, and I'm kinda freaking out about it (and not in the good way). I still have to decide who all I want to ask within the path and other depts. My personal statement is crap and my personal life is crap.

More importantly, I need a vacation.

Hope all is well with everyone else. About to head to preggo's shower then out with some friends for mexican. Margaritas fix everything.

And, before I leave, let me just share something with you all that never fails to leave me smiling:




KITTY ALMOST IN A BAG!











KITTY IN A CAVE!










KITTY IN A CHAIR! (about to attack)

Monday, August 2, 2010

On Fire

It's hot. Like, you walk outside and burst into flames type of hot. I think I'll pull up weather channel and apply to every program in any state where the temp is below 90 degrees. This is ridiculous. Heat index was 113 with an actual temp of 105. Seriously? ugh.

However, I finished my anatomic pathology month. Freaking loved it! I only got to see 1 autopsy, which was disappointing, and didn't get to see any limbs grossed in the lab but it was amazing. I seriously miss it. I was so sad I didn't get to go today. Instead I went to family medicine clinic. It was ok, just clinic. And not path. However, I told them if they could get me some quick stains and a microscope I'd read all paps in house. They just thought I was kidding....

This week will be full of meetings. I have my dean's letter meeting (um, still gotta do that personal statement) and a meeting with the chair of the path dept. I need to start asking people for recommendation letters, so I'm sure I'll have to miss a bit of clinic here and there. Hopefully it won't be a big deal.

I also got to see my amazing friends this past weekend. It was kinda lacking since one of the original gang is all married and living elsewhere and couldn't come :( She was there in our thoughts, however. we did stupid stuff like watch Jurassic Park and made dinner and went to the pool. It was a "boys are crap" weekend as well, as me and a friend of mine got screwed over. We didn't let that ruin our fun! And my friend M has two kittens. Tiny tiny, probably 4 weeks old! One of them even peed on me (too young to hold it for long) which caused a very long laughing fit by the 3 of us. Good times, I miss my girls! I'll be going  back and seeing them soon.

Anywhoo, everyone seems to be chugging along with rotations and such. I'm sure I'll have great stories. My story of the day was a 16 yo with chronic pain, needing lortab, who mysteriously disappeared (along with his mother) when we asked for some urine for a drug screen. At first he "couldn't pee" and when they realized he'd be given all the water he could stomach, they systematically disappeared. Ahh, life of direct patient interaction.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

I'm Home

I take my Step2 CS on Monday and there's a mixed feeling of anticipation and excitement. I'm so terrified of failing this stupid thing, mainly because it's another grand I don't have. I'm excited to get it over with and not have to think about it ever again and have it behind me. I'm jealous of those who have already completed the exam, mainly because I've been having to study during my rotation.

All I have to say about my Path rotation is that I now know, with 100% conviction, that THIS is what I'm supposed to do with my life. I don't think anyone has seen a student squeal in excitement when a limb gets brought in fresh from one of the OR's. I of course cannot do what any of the residents do (what happened to all that histology I used to know? alas), but I just get so excited over everything. I love tumor board. I love unknown conference. I love biopsies. Just so awesome. I haven't done any autopsy or surg path yet (they organized us all it's funny) but I will after this week. So far I've had cytology and hemepath. I haven't enjoyed heme path quite as much as I wanted, but it still is fun. Such a fun game! "is this a blast, mono, or gran?" hahaha. yes. I have found my niche. Finally. Everyone keeps remarking on the stupid happy smile that has permanently adhered to my face. I just can't wait when I get to do it all day, every day. AND get paid.

Well, suppose I'm off to go and study some stupid cases. Can't wait for Monday to be over with.
Hope everyone is as happy as I am :)

Monday, July 5, 2010

Drumroll

The number one reason why to NEVER move in with your parents:

I am 25 years old and just got a "because I said so" as a reason to why I can't have a dog "in our my house".

I mean, seriously?

Take it from someone who knows. Move out as soon as you can, and NEVER go back. I don't care if you have to live out of your car. You'll forever be 10 in any decisions you make. You have to do what they tell you. Because they said so.

Happy point? I get to go back to the path lab tomorrow. Absolutely loving every minute of it. Now to just get apps, interview, and match day over with. So I can get a goddamn dog.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Adventure, or Lack Thereof

So I've had several days of whirlwind since my step2 ck.

Thurs: Step 2 CK. Long, long, long test (9 hours!) that wasn't as bad as I was thinking but not as easy as I was hoping. NBME has some type of psychic powers to put what you don't know ALL.OVER. the test. For me? about 10-15 acid/base disturbances and various questions that involved a baseline interpretation. Ugh. I suck at acid/base. When ph, CO2, O2 and Bicarb are all wonky and nothing makes sense (low ph, low CO2, low Bicarb I have NO IDEA what is going on) I just shut down. Hopefully I have improved my score (my goal is unrealistic like always and I'll be very happy to be at least 20 points higher than my step 1)

Friday: Relax/rehearsal dinner for my friend's wedding. Everything went swimmingly except my dad's best friend died. He was cherished by our family and we all felt as if he was part of the family.

Sat: Friend's wedding with an awesome reception! I think I spent about 2 hours on the dance floor, and sweat about 30% of my total body fluids. Fabulous time! I woke up sore on sun morning (and thirsty!)

Sun and Mon: wake and funeral for Papa. He will be greatly missed. I don't think my dad knows quite to do with himself which makes me sad. He was a wonderful person and I know that I will miss him (he was the best 80 year old smart ass on the planet :) )

Tues: hang out with cupcake queen who is back from Honduras! Just chillin and got some groceries

Wed: yet to be decided

Thurs: I START MY PATHOLOGY ROTATION! sooooooooo excited!!!! Kinda nervous knowing I need to make a good impression and work to get some letters. But finally so happy to be doing what I want.

So, unfortunately, I never did go on an adventure. I didn't want to miss saying goodbye to Papa. I have August off, so there will be plenty of time for adventures then and later in the year. I plan on going to St. Louis and Boston for some fun times. Or wherever I will float.

It's going to be a great year!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

352 to go

25 y/o G0 female presents to clinic with intermittent palpitations, diaphoresis, stomach pain, SOB, dizziness, and feeling of impending doom. She has had 1 similar episode 1 year prior. BP registers 180/70 and 112/57 on two separate times during the visit. Patient appears anxious and continuously looks around the room nervously. PE is unremarkable. What is the best next step in management?

A. 24 hour urine metanephrines
B. TSH, free T4 levels
C. Prescribe Bupropion and schedule a f/u visit in 2 weeks
D.Frequent follow ups
E. no further management

352 questions to go (8 blocks of 44 questions each I believe) and it'll all be over! Then for an adventure, destination still unknown.

Good luck to all those that have yet to take Step! I'll be done at about 6 pm tomorrow. Mix of can't wait and OMGI'MNOTREADYHOLYHELL!!!!

Ready or not! T-17 hours.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Stigmata of the Brain

5 more days of study time left before I take Step 2. I seriously think my brain quit this bitch about Monday. Now whenever I try to read something I start staring at the pages and thinking of birds. If I try to push past the images of birds, I get the vague feeling my brain is beginning to liquefy in my skull, then tries to make it's escape through my eyeballs. So now I'm just left sitting with a book open, staring out a window/toward the wall/creepily at people with just the sound of crickets echoing in my head.

Onto better topics, I GET TO PUPPY SIT AGAIN! Yes, Red and Blue (my two favorite dogs in the whole world! I'm going to be sad when 4th year is over and I won't be able to come see them) for a whole 24 hours! I'm so excited. I missed the nighttime snuggles. Then tomorrow I start plant sitting for my future Surgeon friend. That'll last a whole week just about. Then THURSDAY is step, Friday is rehearsal dinner and Sat wedding of a dear college friend of mine. Then Sunday I leave for some adventure. either Dallas to visit Dr. Pathologist, or going to Pittsburgh with another friend of mine to crash her family vacay. Either way I'm getting AWAY from Jackson for a bit. Details on my adventure to follow.

So I suppose now I'm off to go and play with my buddies! I'm so happy! then maybe some more review and then MOVIE tonight. So excited. Hope everyone is enjoying their "vacation". See you on the flip side of crazy.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Mundane Ramblings

So I just finished my entire USMLE World question bank. And I still feel unprepared for this stupid test. There is something very scary for me, thinking that the results of this ONE test can have such a big influence on my career. It makes me sick thinking about it. Hopefully I just do better on 2 than I did on 1. My real goal is to improve my score about 40 points (but I know that's unrealistic), but we'll see. I always try to shoot for the stars.

I have had very few mental breakdowns, possibly because my study effort this time around is less than optimal. Although I did have a rough couple of days that involved public indecency, the fiancee of an ex, and just plain annoying family members. I appreciate all my friends who put up with me when I have my little breakdowns (and sometimes my ethanol-induced ramblings).Otherwise it's study, study, study. Nothing too exciting in my life right now.

World cup is in full swing, and I am so upset because this whole step thing is putting a damper into my soccer watching! I usually make it a point to watch 3 countries: Italy (the motherland), England, and Spain (my favorite team). Italy actually plays the day I take step and I'm sad. Now, I know a lot of people think that just because it's world cup I'm watching soccer. I've actually been a soccer fan all my life. unfortunately, I never was allowed to play on an organized team, but I've always enjoyed it. I like the intricate team plays and the teamwork necessary to score a goal. The athleticism in these men is just extraordinary and most times I am just in awe of the superb work (no, I don't drool over their physique. That's why I watch rugby :) ). As I realize most people watch world cup just because "omg it's world cup you're stupid if you don't watch!", I watch it because I actually like the sport. I wish the US was as supportive of soccer as other countries. I honestly don't think we belong in the world cup, but that's a different rant.

Anyway, I'm off to go read or maybe just take the night off (which has been occuring almost every night. oops.) Good luck to everyone! Hope step 2 will be better.

Cheers!

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Seasoned

So far it's been a wonderful few post-board days. I was adventurous this morning and decided to go to one of the local parks to stretch my legs. Mainly because the school gym doesn't open until 1, but I also wanted to start getting outside more. I do love me some outdoors! Unfortunately I couldn't get my stupid Ipod-nike sensor working so I had to do without. Special kid over here had to come home and figure out how to get it into un-sleep mode ( I put it in sleep mode before boards knowing I wouldn't be using it for a few weeks and tried to save some battery power). I did get a good 3 miles of mostly walk. My run ended quickly with a massive side stitch that still refuses to go away. I guess the boards inflict more than just mental anguish. alas.

Tomorrow begins STEP 2 lockdown. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I once again trudge up to campus and lock myself away in one of those classrooms to toil away at NBME practice tests, First Aid facts, and USMLE world questions until my eyeballs fall out. However, I am going to try and preserve my sanity by getting out most days to go for a walk or something. It really does help with those natural endorphins and happy neurotransmitters. I also have to get my bridesmaid dress on my body (oops) and then down to a seamstress for tailoring (double oops) so I can  be ready to go the day after my step for my friend's wedding (triple ooops!) So that can offer a good break NEXT.WEEK so I can get that done.

I hope all of my fellow classmates are enjoying some well deserved time off. I'm pretty sad knowing that I won't be seeing some of my old groupmates anymore. As we all depart our separate ways, I know that for those who are closest we'll have to make some real effort to still get together. It's also crazy to think that this time, last year, we were new, fresh, and still had some spunk. Now wise in our post M3-ness, I see how we all have turned into the M4's that we once looked up to in awe thinking "omg how do they know to do that? how do they know so much? omg they are SO.SMART". That is now us, folks. It's amazing what we all have learned and endured in the past year. Cheers to US! I can also tell that I'm not as freaked out about STEP 2 as I was about STEP 1. Some of that I believe comes from the experience of living through (and surviving) STEP 1. Now I'm just approaching this test as a pesky hurdle standing between me and my Pathology rotation in july. Again, amazing what a year does.

With that, I'm going to lay down and rot my brain with some online cable TV. I'll see everyone on the flip side, or at least with the "I can't take it anymore" sanity posts that I'm sure will be making an appearance later.

Good luck to all taking STEP 2, STEP 1, and anything in between.

...between is a funny looking word if you really look at it....

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Too Serious For Numbers

Courtesy of allbleedingstops.blogspot.com



0: Hi. I am not experiencing any pain at all. I don't know why I'm even here.

1: I am completely unsure whether I am experiencing pain or itching or maybe I just have a bad taste in my mouth.

2: I probably just need a Band Aid.

3: This is distressing. I don't want this to be happening to me at all.

4: My pain is not fucking around.

5: Why is this happening to me??

6: Ow. Okay, my pain is super legit now.

7: I see Jesus coming for me and I'm scared.

8: I am experiencing a disturbing amount of pain. I might actually be dying. Please help.

9: I am almost definitely dying.

10: I am actively being mauled by a bear.

11: Blood is going to explode out of my face at any moment.

Too Serious For Numbers: You probably have ebola. It appears that you may also be suffering from Stigmata and/or pinkeye.



I was tempted to point out that the pain scale only goes to Ten but it occurs to me that if you are in fact suffering from Stigmata then (and only then) you are entitled to a pain rating higher then ten
I think this week, I'm at the "too serious for numbers". I feel as if my brain is at the verge of meltdown. and I still have three weeks to go. ::sigh:: definitely stigmata of the brain. Or maybe it's just ebola. You never know what those PhD's are doing up on the 8th floor....
One more board to go. then step 2. Then PATHOLOGY!!! ::big, happy smile:: as well as epic "go visit all your friends before you become a resident" road trips. I'm sure many stories and pictures to follow.

Oh, and there's also Eclipse, as my friend HemeOnc Doc reminded me of this morning. I'm excited about our future date.

Here's to the promised year!






Monday, May 31, 2010

Yummy

Pick your poison


























Happy studying.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Ow.

So after a good 6 hours of studying today, my head is killing me. I'm craving carbs, and alcohol. I think my brain forgot what it means to study. Ow.

In other things, I went to the farmer's market with my hypochondriac-ish friend and found some wonderful finds. I got some local honey that is "creamed". It doesn't have cream in it, but something with the crystallization of it (i didn't get a good explaination at the time) makes it look "creamy". And it has cinnamon infused in it. Let's say it's amazing with oatmeal in the mornings. also found where you can buy half a lamb, half a cow, and goat (yes, GOAT). Not to mention some of the creamiest goat cheese I've had in a while. Just goodness all around! I'm glad I went, because it was something fun and I got to see where they moved it (I remember the farmer's market being behind the U in the train platform type of things).

Also, I had time to read while on my peds rotation. I completed The House of God and also Laughing in the Dark by Chonda Pierce. The House of God was not as good as everyone made it out to be. Overall, I would rate it 7/10 due to lack of realism, lack of actual medicine, and too much sex/preoccupation with boobs. Laughing in the Dark seemed more of a journal than an actual book. I found it lacking any substance and more of a "pour your heart out and see all of the terrible troubles poor little me went through". Also, there was no clear resolution. I give it a 4/5. Just because as she's a comedian, there were some funny parts.

Well, I suppose it's about that time to pop about 4 ibuprofen and resume my USMLE world question bank. I don't think I'll finish my questions by the internal medicine board, but I can try. As of right now my head is screaming in pain, i may just lay down and call it a night. Hope all is well with everyone else in blog-land.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Seriously?

Okay, so pet peeve #15: don't keep sending me emails to check something off online when you don't send me the link to do so. I don't have time to search the internet to find this "check off". I told you that in TWO separate emails TWO different ways. Send me the link, or it won't get done. If I have to repeat myself a THIRD time, it's not going to be nice. If you're wondering, I got an email to sign off on my OB/GYN preceptor. You know, that rotation I completed 6 weeks ago. Unfortunately, the secretary didn't send me the link in order to evaluate him. I check e-value where all the other evaluations are done, and I have no evals yet to be completed coming up in my box. I ignore because apparently it's not important enough to send me the link.. Get another email red flag reminder (she LOVES those things) saying "please sign off and help me out".So I evaluate my preceptor in the email. Get another email "go online and add comments there". .::deep breaths, deep breaths:: send one saying "I DO NOT HAVE ANYTHING IN E VALUE AND YOU DID NOT PROVIDE A LINK". I don't know how much clearer I can get that it is impossible for me to do this evaluation that is floating around somewhere in interspace.

Other than that, finally submitted my last H&P, gotta get some peds studying in somewhere today, and then Peds test tomorrow. Then 2 weeks of boards. Why is internal medicine first? you know, the one with ALL the stuff. why can't we do surgery? I'm sorry, but surgery just isn't as complicated as internal medicine. ::sigh:: Then after that, I have 3 weeks to get it together for STEP2. I may end up postponing it 1. I'm chicken 2. I'm burnt out 3. I don't wanna.

So I suppose I'm off to dig myself another nerd hole. Peace out.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Big Smiles

With one week left in my pediatric rotation, 6 weeks separating me from my STEP2 CK, and 7 weeks before I begin my 4th year, there's not much to smile about. I'm exhausted, overworked, and frustrated.

But when one of the pathology interns stops in the hall just to ask when you're rotating in the dept and smiles and says "yay" it just makes my day. I'm excited about my pathology months and cannot wait to be there. I just hope I can make a good impression and get some good letters. And by god, I need to get my research month thrown together about..NOW. however, YAY PATHOLOGY!!!!! :D

I hope everyone finds one thing to make them smile today, even if it's friday!

Friday, May 7, 2010

The Road That Was Long Seems So Short In the Terms of Now and Then

2 weeks left in M3 year. So unbelievable. Looking back, it's amazing what we've all endured, learned, and triumphed over. Every rotation has taught me a valuable lesson, and I have countless stories for each service. Now as I stare down the barrel of "the rest of my life" type of thing, I almost get this cold sweat on my feet, my heart starts to pound, and I start feeling really shaky. Now as everything comes pummeling on top of me: boards, step, schedules, CV, dean's letter, department letters, applications, step AGAIN....I just have to stop and take a deep breath.

Any advice for the M2's that will be M3's in less than a month is this: learn what you can, sleep when you can, and have fun when you can. M3 isn't the year that is so wonderful. True, no more 10 hour lectures in front of powerpoint, and no more PhD's trying to prove their worth by ass raping you via a 200 question final cumulative exam. Instead, you will have to wake up at a quarter to the ass crack of dawn, smile to the patients who roll over or curse at you for waking them up, then smile as the resident that's had too many mountain dews and not enough sleep curses at you for not writing down RANGES for all the vitals, and then retract like a pro when the surgeon yells at you for not reading his mind. Sometimes spending 12+ hours at the hospital. By this time next year, you will hate UMC as an institution because you realize how much of the past year you have spent in that place.

My advice: let it roll off you. What are they going to do? Kill you? If you show up when you're supposed to, do what you're told, you get the EXACT same grade as any world class kissass gunner that bought him/herself an extra 4 hours of work. Not only will you get the exact same 85 grade, but you'll have an extra 4 hours of sleep to boot.

If I knew then what I know now, I would have done a lot of things differently....
Surgery: I would have hid in the student on-call room and either sleep or study. I would have appeared ONLY when my pager went off. yes, some people may call you a slacker, but in all honesty you don't get graded for trauma call and your OFFICIAL duty is to basically fill out bifolds and scrub in to retract on traumas.
Family Medicine: I would have drank a LOT more and gone out every night.
Psychiatry: There are no tips except you're screwed for the test and no matter how GOOD or CORRECT  your logic, they won't give you credit for those questions that suck. The board exam? May as well take it with a hangover.
Medicine: you'll learn to write REAL notes and work your ass off. I learned the most on this rotation.
Ob/Gyn: no matter what you do, you're going to piss off your resident. Just ignore them and make it out alive
Pediatrics: everyone is nice and the kids are great. Take the opportunity to get your work done and disappear. If the resident says "go study and page me later" take that as "if you go home and don't page, they'll never realize you're gone".

All in all, it's another year down. I wouldn't do it again, but I learned a lot. And as an M4 i'm taking the most SLACKER schedule ever!!!!!

July: Anatomic Path
August: off for possible research/vacation
September: Clinical Path
October: Anesthesia for those who don't want to do surgery
November: Review of Histo
December: OFF
January: Computers in Medicine
February: House Medicine (hopefully VA)
March: Heme/Onc Clinic (Peds)
April: Family Medicine Clinics
May:  OFF
June: off for moving in/travels!!!
July: Start residency:

It's going to be a whirlwind, but it's here! THE LAST YEAR. I have a couple of pesky tests in the way, but all in all, we made it. We did it. Now, we become the slacker M4's!

The next giddy in our step: Match day!

Sunday, May 2, 2010

People Are Crazy

So instead of a fa-la-la post on how much I hate/disdain/actually like a rotation, I'm going to share my thoughts on why Wal-Mart is the gathering ground for crazy people.

Note: this is completely based on a true story (aka the actual occurrences during my weekend outing).

Disclaimer: I usually shop at one of the *real* grocery stores in town, and buy my loose odds and ends at Target because they would otherwise be a bit pricey at the grocery store. However, my mom had a gift certificate to Wal-Mart and I decided to use it during my weekly grocery outing to save some bucks. So no, this is a once in a very blue moon with streaks of purple in it.

Observations:
People push their grocery carts like they drive.
Exhibit A: I was cruising by the milk on the way to the yogurt nook when I notice that this lady is riding my ass. Literally, her cart is about 4 in from my butt. I look around and notice that no, there are no other carts in the vicinity blocking her from steering around me and going about her merry way. She decides that the best place for her to be IS FOUR INCHES AWAY AND COMPLETELY INSIDE MY PERSONAL SPACE. I have a feeling she's a tail gaiter. Luckily me stopping in front of the Greek yogurt gave her the opportunity to steer around me and then stop about 3 yards away. typical. 
Exhibit B: I was coming around the corner of an isle when a lady going oh, 40mph slams  into my cart, then gives me the evil eye as if it was my fault. Luckily for her, there was no window for me to flip her the bird and shout profanities, as well as no horn attached to the middle of my cart handle. I need to look into installing car horns onto grocery carts. It helps with my road rage, maybe it'll help with apparent wal-mart shopping rage. Unfortunately, neither can remedy the stupidity that necessitates the existence of a horn.

Let's just say that there was more cluster-fuckery occuring, but I won't outline the complete circus that was my outing to wal-mart. Let's just say that I will now refuse to go to wal mart unless I have a gift certificate and even then, it may just be used on a DVD or some batteries.

On a brighter note, on to another week of peds wards. Not feeling the impulse to slit my wrists every morning is a new one for me. I'm actually enjoying my time. Although, the last encounter with residents has left me with a bad taste in my mouth, but they will get a very interesting evaluation from myself (let's just say no patients on the list+post call does not equal going home). Let's just hope my new sister team is the bomb. I'm hoping that the streak stays where all of them are awesome and I keep having this "waking up at 5 am isn't THAT bad when I get to see cute kids and work with nice residents" feeling.

Cheers!

Oh, and as always

 Kitty in a Basket!!!!
 

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

False Alarm

So wards taught me that Peds really isn't for me. (whew!). I realized I just love the kids. They are great. The math behind it all is not so much. I like math just fine, but calculating kcal/kg/day or meds gives me a headache. Pathology all the way! (as many of you guys have said since second year).

There is about 3 weeks left in 3rd year. It is awesome and scary both at the same time. I'm ready to get on with my career and start residency, but the process to get there seems very daunting right now. I'm sure I'll trudge along and get through it. Right now I just look at the task ahead and just heave a very large ::sigh:: I'm sure over the next few months I'll blog my way through personal statement, applications, interview and the finale: MATCH DAY (how SCARY is that guys???!!! it's going to be US in March!!!!!)

I guess I'll wander around maybe go study for my step 2. Today a friend and I went to the trail out by the Natchez trace. It was really nice! I plan to frequent the area more often (unfortunately I'll have to wait for another person or someone who will lend me their dog-I don't feel safe going by myself). yay for finding new things to do in Jacktown!

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Here's Your Sign

I always find these things interesting, not that I put a lot of value on them, but funny nonetheless.

Some of it is kinda uncanny.

Scorpio is a Fixed Water sign, ruled by Pluto.  Before the discovery of Pluto, the ruling plant for this sign was Mars, and the two are more or less interchangeable with regard to the Scorpio personality, especially since the recent downgrade of Pluto from a full-blown planet to a "dwarf planet."  As the eighth sign of the zodiac, the Scorpio individual is an intense, intuitive, complex, determined soul who gives life his all, for better or worse.  Famous characters sharing this sign include Bill Gates (October 28), Prince Charles (November 14), and Charles Manson (November 12). 
Of all the signs of the zodiac, Scorpios are arguably the most recognizable due to their combination of straight-shooting directness, laser beam mental focus, and critical assessment.  Don't ask Scorpio if you don't want to know the unvarnished truth.  There's no sugar-coating whatsoever here, even if the truth is not pretty.  This tendency does not endear Scorpio to many of the other signs, who consider him overly critical - even hurtfully so.  However, by the same token,  when Scorpio gives you a compliment, it's not as a  condescending gesture, but rather a straight-out, honest assessment that you can indeed be proud of.  Although Scorpio generally performs well in social and work situations, he is most comfortable either alone or with the small circle of family and friends he is closest to.  This is not a sign that actively seeks out the company of others, preferring introversion rather than extroversion whenever possible.  Scorpio is fiercely self-reliant and will almost never seek out the advice of others, preferring to look to himself for his answers.   Although we generally don't comment on physical traits for the zodiac signs in these pages, it is worth noting that many, many Scorpios are noted for their penetrating eyes that make others feel uncomfortable (think Charlie Manson). 
For those with a Scorpio child, you have a kid with a deep emotional bond with you, but who is also quite capable of entertaining himself when you are not available with no hard feelings, especially if he has something interesting to do.  With his sharp mind and inquisitive nature, your little Scorpio will likely soak up knowledge in whatever form you provide it, be it television, books, puzzles, or whatever.  Because of their tendency to be rather introverted, Scorpio kids should be given special attention from time-to-time, as they may tend to get pushed aside by louder, more boisterous siblings - especially older ones.  Make no mistake, though - they  can and will defend themselves, and when angered, they will retaliate fiercely, usually in an unexpected way designed to cause the most damage.   Scorpio kids will appreciate one-on-one time with their parents, but generally won't feel comfortable talking about deeply personal issues.  Keeping it light and fun is a plus with these kids, with the knowledge that if something is really bothering them, they will find a way to let you know, though again, it might be in a roundabout way.  In school. Scorpio is smart enough to ace any of his studies, but he will only put effort into those things that interest him most.  His grades therefore will likely be uneven, though with his adversity for failure, he will likely make enough effort to squeak by in subjects he dislikes. 
Scorpio in the workplace is the one with the office full of odd decorations with either no chairs for visitors or one chair that is hidden in a dark corner.  You won't find Scorpio flitting around the water cooler looking for gossip, as he considers this a complete waste of time and energy.  Because of this, other people in the office will often comment that they think he is mean or unfriendly, and that they are unexplainably uncomfortable in his presence, although Scorpio himself considers his relationships with his co-workers as adequate.  The boss usually loves Scorpio because he is a low-maintenance, industrious worker who is able to completely focus on the task at hand.   The few select people who work more closely with Scorpio and have gotten past his exterior shell find him quite useful, often confiding in him about personal issues to get his honest, straightforward assessment.  Although he doesn't seem emotional or compassionate on the surface, Scorpio will be the one to initiate a fund drive for another employee who has fallen on hard times and needs help, and he will usually do so anonymously to avoid unwanted attention. 
If you have found a romantic partner in a Scorpio, you have a fiercely private, deeply feeling partner indeed.  You may have to get used to the fact that you will never know everything about your Scorpio, but rest assured that if he feels a strong connection to you, he will let you know what you need to know.  Indeed, if he didn't feel a strong connection to you, you wouldn't even be around!   Scorpio is very loyal and expects the same from you.  He is a highly intuitive individual, and will likely instinctively know what you need and want - a very good trait to have in a partner.  However, his intuition will also pick up on imperfections in the relationship, so don't be surprised if he zeros in and starts asking probing questions if you are trying to hide something from him.  It's going to be tough giving your Scorpio mate a surprise birthday party!
The best matches for Scorpio for sure are Cancer and Pisces, but Virgo, Leo, Capricorn, and Sagittarius might also work.  It will likely be tough going with another Scorpio,  Taurus, or Aries.
Scorpio in any relationship is smart and interesting, with surprising intuition.  He may seem quite critical, which is off-putting at times, but you can count on him for an honest assessment.   Don't go to him for sympathy, as he will tell you to pick yourself up by your bootstraps and get on with it.  However, if you are in real trouble, he will likely sympathize and find resources to solve your problem, often in an unconventional way.  If you cross a Scorpio, depending on the circumstances, he may walk away for life, but if he doesn't, he will find a way to even the score to his satisfaction before resuming the friendship.  Despite these pitfalls, Scorpio as a friend has the potential to be one of the most loyal, intuitive, intelligent, nurturing, and helpful friends in the zodiac, so making the effort to dig a little deeper than you have to with other signs will likely provide you with rich rewards in the end!   

Some of that really does describe me, other stuff is meh, not so much.

Wards start Monday, I'm actually looking forward to it because it will tell me if I like peds in the way I think I do. Let's just say that my week of ambulatory made me go "hey, I like peds. HEY! this isn't supposed to happen! I'M NOT SUPPOSED TO CHANGE MY MIND" so we'll see. I'm thinking I'll hate wards and go running straight to the path dept. Or, I'll have to do a peds month between my two path months to figure it out.

Le sigh. No worries, I won't take anyone's spot at UMC if I decide to do peds :) (let's all hope I don't flip the last minute. Can you imagine the HEADACHE of trying to network at this point in time? sheesh.)