So It Has Been A While.....Forgive ME!

I would just like to ask for forgiveness for leaving all of you out there hanging on what is going on with my life.  I would just like to say that since the last time that I wrote, I have just been a busy little bee studying her life away.  Honestly, AICM just included a rotation for a minimum of two hours per week of various doctors that you essentially watch or talk about how to treat patients.  There were some doctors that were better than others but it is not my place to blast them on here.  My friends and I enjoyed each of our rotations and learned from them differently.  I would say the biggest things were the fact that everything was beginning to come together.

Honestly, while learning the material on the island, the information doesn't make any sense.  Talking with the doctors made us understand that all those little details matter.  Often, I have been told that I should be careful not to "over-study" but I beg to differ.  Is there a such thing as over-studying for the Step 1?  If anyone has an answer to that, I beg you to comment below so my friends can get some information from you.

So I am sure you are dying to find out what is going to happen next with me.  Well, right now, I plan to just study like crazy.  I honestly don't have anything coming up that is spectacular unless you mean my birthday in February and a cruise in March.  Plus, when I get back from that, I plan to take the qualifying exam to take the Step 1 with school.  I must agree that this is a really bad idea but it was something that was planned in advance and I didn't think that this would be how it worked out but unfortunately that is how my schedule is flowing right now.

Also, I am continuing to teach some BLS/HeartSaver courses here and there now that my partner in crime, James, is back around.  If you would like more information about some of the trainings we offer, just visit www.trainchicagoheart.org.  We are still working in conjunction with the Anguilla campus so you can expect some overlap.  We successfully turned the Anguilla program over to two other lovely students who are doing wonderful with the program despite also being responsible for their coursework as well.  I must say that I am extremely proud of them.  They are featured in the Newsletter featured on the SJSM website.

Also, not relevant, but I am pictured in the January 2017 newsletter on page 5 reviewing an exam with some other classmates.  I still remember that day and I must say that it was interesting to get my picture taken while discussing my exam with the professor.  To recap, the picture was during my third semester which is considered the most difficult semester for students to master.

But other than these tidbits, what else do I have to show for myself?   Umm.....would you like to see some of my Step 1 notes?  I'm just kidding but if anyone still has any questions about anything, I am still happy to answer.  I can take a 5-10 minute break every few hours to answer any burning questions that one would have about school.

Maybe before I end, I should explain what my hold up is right now so that people understand my path and where I am going.  So right now, I am studying for the USMLE Step 1 which is a test taken by foreign medical graduates and American medical students alike.  It is a test that determines your fate of what you are to become it seems like the good book does when we get to heaven.  (Give me props for that analogy if you can!)  My school has us (its students) take a qualifying exam (NBME) to determine if we are ready to sit for the Step 1.  Upon passing that, we are allowed to sign up for the Step 1 and write that exam.  The current passing score for the Step 1 is currently 192 with the average being in the 220s.  Of course me, being the overachiever that I am, strive to be a little above that.

I already mentioned before that I plan to take the qualifying exam at the end of March.  Based on the results of that exam, determines my next steps.  My ultimate goal is to successfully pass the Step 1 by August so that I am able to participate in Match by 2019.  So I asked for continuous prayers of my success in those endeavors.  I also don't want to have a never ending cycle of repeating learning the same things over and over which also explain my sense of urgency.  So if anyone is wondering why I am becoming a hermit, this should explain it all.  So peace and quiet it shall be!

I extend hope and prayers for all the students that are currently studying with me and pray they all pass with the scores that they desire.  Just know that my journey is far from over and it is continuing on.  I am just at a mountain currently but I am climbing and I have the equipment necessary to reach the top.  I will try to update you monthly throughout the journey with details of celebrating my birthday and going on the cruise plus the qualifying exam. Thank you all for your many well wishes.

Although Christmas has passed by a month, here's a family picture including my brother that was in the motorcycle accident on my iPad.  Please continue to pray for his recovery.

Let’s not get tired of doing good, because in time we’ll have a harvest if we don’t give up.

Galations 6:9, CEB

Chicago Living and Stuff

Hey ya'll.  So unfortunately, I have not been updating you as much as I used to because now it is time for the BIG GIRL studying to begin.  Honestly, studying the subjects this time around is more crucial than before.  This time I am studying for a big test called the USMLE Step 1 if you are not familiar.  This test pretty much determines what type of doctor you will become.  I have a goal in mind and I am sure with my faith that I can achieve that goal as well.  I am doing my best to study as effectively as possible to understand and review some material.

So I am sure that people want to know exactly what I do all day.  I literally wake up and begin making tea.  Just kidding but I do that out of all honesty and then I get ready to go to class.  So what is class like you might ask.  Well, it consists of 3 hours of Kaplan videos.  Being that the old program involved professors lecturing for 8 hours straight, I'll take 3 hours of videos I can speed up if I watched them on my own.  So honestly, for that portion I don't "need" to be at school other than to sign in.  Around 11 am, we have a professor that comes in to review some concepts by going through practice questions.  I would understand why the school wouldn't choose their best professors but it is still helpful in seeing how the information is supposed to be incorporated into our learning.

Lunch is still at noon for an hour like it was on the island.  Mondays are the days we learn material for the CS exam from a great instructor.  He is very helpful and likes to challenge us to see if we remember material from basic sciences such as the brachial plexus and volume of distribution equation.  Yea, we are supposed to remember that and yep, I forgot it.  So those days happened but I can tell you that I won't forget it again.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are reserved for clinicals.  My first set of rotations is in family medicine.  I really like this doctor and he somewhat reminds me of a certain professor on the island based on his intimidation but I enjoy it.  He keeps us on our toes.  I can honestly say that we have learned how to take a history and watched a lot of physical exams so far.  I think everyone in my group has seen at least 5 patients thus far in our two-hour block for rotations.  It may seem pointless to some but seeing what may be in my future is pretty exciting.

Thursdays and Fridays are set aside for Q/A sessions with the visiting professors.   At this time, the professor can choose to go through questions on the topics and explain answers.  I find the sessions really informative and I am starting to learn again that I know more information than I give myself credit for.  Looking forward at this exam scares me greatly but I keep forgetting that I know more information than I give myself credit for.

Recently we completed the biochemistry section and since we didn't have a professor, my group and others went to the hospital like the overachievers that we are to take a scrub class for the surgery rotation we will have in a few weeks.  I think you can say we had fun and I will let you judge.

A lot of people had opinions of this hospital and I really must say that I am impressed with the resources they have.  They have a lot of medical students that are walking around with a variety of doctors as well.  I find the strangest thing that there is actually no trauma centers on the South Side of Chicago so the fact that this hospital is in place without that is really nice.  It is in a minority-based community so that was a prediction of the patients we were to serve.

Other than that, what have I done that was interesting?  Well, I took a walk at the Navy Pier and Lake Michigan and studied.  But that's about it!

It's not Anguilla but this Lake will do!

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan

A Day at the park by Lake Michigan 

Navy Pier

Navy Pier

Navy Pier

So after all of that, I will start to study again!  Haha.  It's like it never ends!!!!

"I called on the Lord in distress; The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place.  The Lord is on my side; I will not fear.  What can man do to me?"

-Psalm 118:5-6, NKJV

The Infamous Block 4

Hello all!  I am really making a point to post very often because I know there is a lot I can answer questions for on this side of the program opposed to answering questions when I am gone.  So blocks are finished and everyone is just getting ready and planning for home.  I probably should've packed yesterday but I decided to catch up on some television shows.  Plus I went out for dinner to celebrate the fact that it is my last normal block.  I guess this is the part where I should be sad. Someone cue the tears.  Okay, I will stop laughing now.

So my block exams went fairly well I must say.  You can tell that I wasn't distracted by Walden courses and I truly studied a lot this block.  Since this block is only 7 class days, I really have to make this count!  And yes, you read correctly.  SEVEN days!  And we have 13 days until White Coat ceremony.  And I guess you can say I am a little excited.

So what have I been up to?  Nothing much.  Just studying like crazy.  Since there is no real method of standardized testing in medical school other than the Step 1, our school has implemented NBME exams everywhere.  Most classes have at two like my class has.  NBME stands for National Board of Medical Exams and they just hold onto old USMLE exams.  It's a company like the PSAT.  They hold on to old questions and sell them to people for them to simulate a real exam.  I would say it is a good business because a lot of people use it.

Lunch from a restaurant at Shoal Bay

So with 3 class days left, what do I have to do to pass and move on with my life?  Two presentations, two quizzes, 4 exams, a research paper and Carnival.  I included the last one as a joke but I think you get the point that I have a lot of stuff to do.  Monday, we actually don't have school because it is August Monday also known as the first day of Carnival.  There is a parade and a beach party to go with that.  I really should study so let's see!

My group from my
Pathology poster presentation

In the past few days, I have presented a poster with some lovely classmates and I must say that we BEAST moded that presentation and it is reflected in our grade.  Also, this week we were to turn in research papers to our mentors of our research assignments that some students had the luxury of working on for the last three semesters.  My group has had to make a lot of revisions but I think we still did a great job.  And I have rewarded myself greatly this week!  Mostly because my exam grades were favorable and I am so close to getting out of this place.  Here's a few pictures to showcase how my week has been!
 I can only say that this week, I was blessed.  I was blessed enough to be around great people and have great grades.  As for a progress report on my brother, this week he has decided that he would move his leg in places to make it appear as if he would like to make a run for it.  Sorry little bro but you gotta stay put just a little while longer.  And of course there are some side jokes that come along with that as well.

Dinner with a highly regarded professor

Again, I appreciate all of the people who have helped me on my journey this far.  It has been a long road.  I have met a lot of great new friends and lost contact with a few but our relationships should surpass that.  I would think here would be a good point to ask if I have arranged anything so far for the future move to Chicago.  I signed a lease from here for an apartment in Chicago.  I know it is risky but I didn't want to risk not having a place at all because the area I am moving to is college town.  I think it was a great choice being that all utilities are included.  And I am still arranging what furniture and items that I am taking with me.

Since I only have a few weekends left, I am attempting to live.  For once in my life, I am having the opportunity to live.  I have always been a cautious person about spending and I must say that I think that I have done fairly well.  I really have not increased my debt as bad as I could have but I decided for my last few weeks, that I won't say no as much.  I just wanted to say that I experienced Anguilla versus just lived here.  I think all of my audience would like to hear that I did that as well.

Enjoying Shoal Bay

So what now?   I have almost learned all of medicine.  There is almost nothing else the teachers can teach me.  So now, it is time to put the absorbed information the teachers here have given me and study to take the Step 1!

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.  There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.

Proverbs 16:24-25, ESV

The GREAT Physician

Hello followers!  I greatly apologize for my absence.  Not only is it my fourth semester here on the island, it has been a true test of my faith.  This semester is the semester of joy because you finally get the feeling that you see the light at the end of the tunnel.  It's when you can say you're moving back home even though it is really a move to Chicago, IL for the next two years of your life.  But I will say that I am grateful for all of it.  The road of life was never meant to be a straight road into the sunset because then there would no purpose for trials and tribulations that present as the curves, hills and bend in the road.

A few weeks ago, I posted that I was unable to talk about what was going on.  Before then, it was joy from passing my cumulative exams.  After passing those exams, I was involved in a parking lot accident.  I backed into another car that was coming into the parking lot.  Just a little advice: look up some of the laws or have really good friends who know the laws very well in another country.  In the US, the fault would be the individual driving forward and not the person reversing but that isn't the case here.  Too bad, I didn't learn this was the law until two weeks later after talking with many individuals including the police who never informed me of such a thing.  But that now is resolved and insurance will take care of it.

In other news, I began studying for classes after that and finished the last season of Grey's Anatomy.  I treated myself to some snacks and buckled down studying.  This semester is mostly a review semester because not much material is actually taught.  Well let me rephrase that.  We have a big class that consists of mostly review and then the other three small classes we learn bit by bit.  I would say we have a bit more free time due to the lack of busy work that is required this semester.  Overall, I like it although it seems a little harder than the others.  Maybe because we're so close to the part where we start to study for Step 1 but I don't know.

Everything was starting off well into the semester and then I received a phone call.  My youngest brother was involved in a motorcycle accident.

You can never predict how the path in life is going to go.  You can plan to go straight but who's to say that God won't have turn left to turn right later to get back on track.  It would have been nice to know that this semester would be like the others and only thoughts of passing my classes but it didn't work like that.

My brother was driving to see his great grandmother when a vehicle turned in front of him.  He only rode a motorcycle to save on gas.  My brother doesn't speed and doesn't attempt any tricks on his motorcycle.  He just left from visiting his uncle's house.  Even routine things can turn into disaster.  My brother is now recovering from a traumatic brain injury.  I think the part that hurt the most is knowing exactly what the doctor was saying because of all the classes I've taken.  Afterall, I know that physicians are not gods.  Plus I know who the great Physician is!  So I continue to pray for my brother in his recovery.  It seems thus far, it is at the pace of a turtle however.

So after flying home unexpectedly and the cost of moving to Chicago from Atlanta, my life is looking pretty swell.  I knew this journey would come at the cost of bad credit, threatened relationships and other things.  Never would I have predicted this.  Because this is my last semester and I know I probably won't be back on the island for a very long time if I decide to come back, I am trying to experience as much as possible.  Unfortunately it may hurt my pockets but I will have some good experiences and food while I am at.

Mmmm.  Breakfast!

Seven weeks from today, I will graduate from the island and receive my white coat.  The excitement I feel is beyond my wildest dreams.  I am very anxious about what the future holds for me.  I am excited to see what the Lord will lead through in Chicago.  The price of apartments could be depressing but on the other hand, it is the chance to be a plane ride away from loved ones.  Now, it is a plane ride with layovers that add up to over 12 hours most of the time.  Just being able to hold family in your arms is always de
sired.  My maternal-grandma, grandpa and boyfriend will be present for this special day.  I will be sure to post a link on all social media about viewing the ceremony online.  It will most likely be starting around 4 pm as the other traditional programs have began.

I want to thank everyone who has crossed my path to this point.  To the people that have helped me in any way, shape or form thank you.  Even if it was as small as a like on Facebook or Instagram.  It is all appreciated.  "To those closer ones, love that is ever steadfast."  I think at this point, I can say I have made you all proud of me for the journey this far.

I apologize to all of those that I may have acted differently towards but everyone grieves differently.  I shut down and didn't want to talk.  I just miss having my friend to talk to every now and then about how life is supposed to go.  Also about the surprises he had in store for our parents.  I guess it's all on hold now.

Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.

-Romans 12:12, NLT

Honesty is Key*

Hello All!  I am sure you have been waiting anxiously to see how my semester ended and what exactly happened during MD3.  Well, .......Life happened.  I must admit that it was a very tough semester but I pulled through without letting it break me down.

It began with a peer and me working on a project to educate Anguillians in CPR but it didn't end that way.  There was some resistance from the community that we did not anticipate.  Luckily, we were still able to educate the students at school.  Because it was a student-run project, we were able to log some tutoring hours because the certification is a requirement for the AICM semester that is currently held in Chicago.  If you want to see a video I made about the project, you can look here.  Never mind the music.  It was my first one.  A better quality video is to be uploaded shortly.  The information about the project is also to be updated as well.

Also during MD3, I lived every moment in the library.  There were some naps, tears and laughing that may have occurred but mostly studying to say the least.  I say all this to assure you that although I did have my outlet by teaching CPR that I also made time to study.  And here's some proof!

I still ate well and lost some weight through the semester but I assure you that it wasn't stress.  I was supposed to be preparing for the annual 5K event that is held on the island by the Red Cross but that didn't exactly happen because I wanted to sleep a little bit.  But I can sleep when I'm dead right?  Plus sleep is overrated.

So even after all the studying and writing to memorize drugs and pathologies, it still wasn't enough.  I when I say that, this wasn't enough.  Yes this is as bad as it looks to learn.  But I  prevailed with this material.  Life was a juggling act and unfortunately two things fell out of place.

So what am I saying?  I am saying that I did not pass two classes during the regular semester.  I did not plan to put myself in that position but I must say that things happen beyond your control.  What could have contributed to this?  It could be many things.  It could be the added stress of having class until 5 pm each day and taking a break until 7 pm or it could be the time that I stayed up late to bake and eat chocolate chip cookies.  Or from having to write a 5 page paper for Walden University or completing my vRx assignment for pharmacology.  As you see, it could be a number of items.

So what now?  Well I went home for break after my exams.  My family and friends were very supportive and demanded that every moment be dedicated to studying.  Honestly, I did not want to study.  I was becoming content with the idea that if I had to stay a semester longer that I would be okay.  After some thought, I began to develop the confidence that these exams were to be conquered by me.  So here at Saint James, currently, there is an opportunity to "redeem" yourself if you fail the course during the regular.  So there is a cumulative exam that you have the opportunity to take.  In order to pass the course of which you must score a 70% and that allows you to pass the course.

So after the endless hours of being told to study, it is safe to say that.............


I PASSED!!! Woohoo!!!  I am now in my final semester of Basic Sciences!  So let me catch up on what I missed in the last 3 days.  So I will run now to study hard and make all of you proud!  Oh what can this semester bring?

And keep the charge of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself: That the LORD may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.

-1 Kings 2:3-4, KJV 

And then there was Block 3....

Hello all.  I hope you haven't missed me too much.  Just kidding!  I'm sure you missed me much.  I have been off attempting to save the world as usual.  For the past month, I have honestly been studying my tail off to get grades that I approve of.  My friends, Aqsaa and M, conveyed their thoughts on what Anguilla is for them and I think you figured out that they are Muslim.  I must say that on this campus, you are exposed to many different religions than what one may be used to.  I grew up in the south where almost everyone was Christian and if they weren't, they were "spiritual."  So being here is a big difference for me.  Learning about prayer 5 times a day that Muslims take part in as well as Hindu holidays and Buddhists' ways of life.  Pretty much this experience alone may add to why here was a good option because it is helpful in learning what's offensive to some may not be offensive to others and vice versa.

So now you wanna know the juicy stuff right?  Well, this semester, I have a change of scenery since I live on my own this time and I shouldn't move anymore.  I promise.  I live close to the ferry and about 10 minutes to school which is further than my 7 minute drive that I used to have.  It is just nice to pack a fridge as full as you would like without any restriction.  Currently, the weather is not "hot" yet because it does get a lot warmer.  It's a nice comfortable temperature.  It is still a part of the rain season so some extra humidity is expected.

Seriously, so about the classes.  Honestly, THIS SEMESTER SUCKS!  That's the nicest way I can say that so I am sorry grandma for not doing what you taught me.  To help with the semester, I am participating in Lent (no, I am not Catholic; associated with church of Christ).  I am fasting from sweets.  I must say that it has helped because my grades have improved but it just feels like this is the semester of impossible and I now see why it is a commonly failed semester.  The courses included this semester include: Microbiology, Pharmacology, Pathology I, Psychology, CCBS and RHM.  Yes you just read right.  I did have all these courses and a Walden course but that is now over for now.

As the names tell you, yes each of those classes are hard.  This semester is challenging by the workload and time management.  Class is everyday from 8 am to 5 pm.  Kind of like a full time job.  I have to admit that very rarely at stayed at my last job for the full 8 hours sometimes so this is killer!  By the time 5 pm rolls around, there is no motivation to study although you know that if you don't study, you won't be able to get to every subject in a night of studying.  Then on top of it all, a classmate and I are trying to save Anguilla and I have my research project that has fortunately has not started yet.

I will admit that the classes are a lot more interesting these days. The only complaint I really have is that their are too many classes and extra assignments.  If at least one class was taken away and all the "make you pass" assignments were gone, this semester could actually be an enjoyable learning experience.  The results of it now seems to be see how much I can memorize to pass this semester.  It didn't help with the added stress of taking a NBME for pharmacology either.  A NBME is retired questions from the USMLE Step 1 which is taken after Basic Sciences or as most know it, after you leave the island.  A lot of students stress about them and take typically 6 months to study for it.  You could guess that we, my class, didn't think we were prepared for such a test but some beg to differ.  Pharmacology shouldn't be taught in one semester is my only argument.  I wish it were two but that's life.

So besides learning drugs, bacteria, the immune response and how cancer is developed, my life has been incorporated into living in the library.  It's pretty disappointing but I have still managed to live a little and get some good pictures of cool spots around the island.

Pelican Bay, Anguilla

Pelican Bay, Anguilla

Depressing library life

 













I will admit that I sent the last picture to my mom for pity but she didn't fall for it.  (Insert another sad face here)  I also celebrated my birthday studying in the best method possible.  I had a pathology quiz the next day.  But great friends surprising me with chocolate mousse was great.  That is the only day I have had "sweets" so I think my fasting is still sufficient.  I have also been reading the Bible more and more and back to learning more about myself in the process.  Just look out for it!

Lastly:
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

James 1:2-4, NKJV

Again, Another Look to See Changes in Culture

Hello readers, I am a classmate of Ariel’s and I will be telling you my perspective on our current situation.

The clear sky above me, the silky white sand gliding between my toes, the salty cool breeze that passes through me, and the sun rays that warm my skin. Those are all the elements that collectively paint a vivid image of what life in this tropical paradise may consist of. And to be honest none of the above is exaggerated. Anguilla is actually one of the most beautiful places on this planet. I’ve done my share of international travel and so far no place has compared to the serenity that is felt here in nature’s utopia.

That being said, it’s so unfortunate but living here brings upon a set of burdens otherwise not endured. This could be due to the fact that all of us medical students are from the United States or Canada and we have become conditioned to a certain lifestyle. Fast internet, reliable electricity, a home free of lizards and centipedes, drinkable tap water, and proper traffic laws are just the basics that we are accustomed too. Establishments such as shopping malls, movie theaters, or even fast food chains that once upon a time were part of our everyday lives are now luxuries we must do without. All of us students have become extremely adaptable and over time have adjusted to everything like champions. Initially, the lifestyle change was brutal but like the saying goes, out of sight out of mind.

Mentioned above are the tangible compromises one must make when living in the Caribbean. Believe it or not but that isn’t even the most challenging part about being here. The part that will break you down and keep you up at night is actually an internal struggle. Living on this island and dedicating all your time to learning the art of medicine dominates all aspects of your life. While you are spending all your time in class, at the library, in lab, at review sessions everyone else is going through human experiences typical of their age. For example, I can not tell you how many holidays, birthdays, weddings, funerals, baby showers, graduations, and seasonal changes I have missed by being here. It feels as if everyone else is truly living and we are merely existing. We wake up and go through all the same motions, our routine never changes, and we start to seek pleasure in our work such as getting an A on an exam or presentation. We become so indulged that we forget to reply to texts or return phone calls and then our loved ones become accustomed to our absence as an inevitable consequence.

So you see, being a Caribbean medical student is not for the fickle. It takes all mind, body, and soul to be successful in this lifestyle. You must be so dedicated to the Medical Sciences that you willingly sacrifice life’s precious moments that can never be earned back. No one truly knows what to expect until they themselves actually experience this chaos of holding on and letting go, accepting and adapting. On the bright side, time waits for no one; good or bad it will pass and one day it will all be worth it. So while living here brings about the essence of summertime sadness it does so with a view. And all you can do is stare out into the various shades of blue ocean and see the bigger picture, you will be a doctor and you will save a life.

Xoxo

- M

“It is not the eyes that are blind, but the hearts.” – Qur’an 22:46

Mead's Bay at Sunset

A Different Perspective

Hello guys. My name is Aqsaa, and I am one of Ariel’s classmates. She offered me the opportunity to write for her blog this week, which I thought I would take a crack at.

I would like to start with a little bit about myself. I grew up in the states, specifically in Maryland, and lived there until I graduated high school. I then moved to Philadelphia and attended Drexel University, from which I received a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences. I continued to live in Philly after graduation, and worked as a Leasing Assistant, which had nothing to do with my degree, but it helped pay my bills. At this point my parents were quite frustrated with me, and wanted me to get to medical school as fast as possible, or move back home. After living on my own for five years, moving back in with my parents was not something I wanted to do. So I began my search for the right medical school.

I honestly never thought I would attend medical school in the Caribbean, but after about a month of researching schools, I decided to go ahead and apply. This began my journey here at St. James School of Medicine. From Ariel’s previous posts, you all probably already know the basics about SJSM, so I won’t bore you with the same information again. Other than the fact that she has mentioned that some of her classmates have moved as many times as she has. This is true. I have moved four times since coming to Anguilla last May. And it’s not due to the fact that I have bad experiences with landlords. It has given me the opportunity to experience different parts of the island which I now call home.

Everyone who attends school here has a very strong opinion about the school, which seems to be on the extreme. Either they like it, or they have an abhorrent hate for it. My personal take on it is that it is like any other university or school. There are professors that are amazing and have a passion for teaching, and there are others who probably are better off not wasting the time of the students. I will say that the first two semesters, which are technically considered the first year of medical school, were not too horrible. Anatomy was a tough class the first semester, and then Physiology was a challenge the second semester. But nothing could have prepared us for the rude awakening which is MD3. I truly believe that having spent one month in MD3, I finally feel like I am actually in medical school. I am sure many of my classmates will agree with me. Being tired and headaches are a perpetual part of my being. But there is hope that if I can make it through this semester, I can survive anything.

However, even though this semester has been off to a rocky start, I still try to take some time to go out and have fun, or spend time doing something I enjoy. I recently went home for winter break, and brought my camera back with me. I have not made too much use of it, but hopefully I will be able to take a break every so often and take some pictures. It is really important to take some time off from studying as well.

And say: "My Lord, increase me in knowledge." (Quran 20:114)

Viceroy Beach

Busy Bee in MD3

I must say that I know why all the upperclassmen were running around like their heads were cut off.  This semester has things constantly due and quizzes to always study for.  And then, when you think you studied enough, you haven't at all.  Then you go back to the slides to review the same material you may have reviewed 15 times before.  And sometimes even after that, you must reread them again.

I can honestly say that this semester will be more of an isolation type deal.  I think I have communicated with my family less than I have in previous semesters.  Mainly communication is about the upcoming big day or White Coat.  Although it isn't until next semester, it is still something to look forward to and be excited for.  Plus it is a mechanism for keeping my eye on the prize.  So far, it looks as if it will be August 13th which is the week after Carnival.  Talk about a bit of excitement.

I will mention that this semester has challenging classes but it may only be considered challenging because class is everyday until 5 pm.  Yes, we have class from 8 am to 5 pm.  Monday through Friday.  Three of my five classes are five days a week as well.  It sounds worse than what it actually is.  At the end of the day, you want a doctor knowledgeable in diagnosing infections, knowing the drugs to treat the condition and if there should be any other conditions to consider.

This is also going on while my friend and I are trying to accomplish a project of educating community members on CPR (this is the undisclosed project I mentioned in my previous post).  We have had everything come together at this point and it is really looking like we will be great at what we are doing.  We have our school's support and students leaving this island will have one item on their AICM checklist completed.  In case you are unaware of what AICM is, it is the fifth semester in which students have review for the USMLE Step 1 and preliminary rotations at the hospital in Chicago, Jackson Park.  From what I hear, they are trying to move the fifth semester to the island but rumors aren't true until it becomes reality.

By training the students for a reduced fee, we are saving the money to train community members.  This project is a very large commitment and more than what I expected but it is really making me rethink a lot of decisions.  The fact that I have the ability to educate others in something they need makes me want to make a life long goal of educating people of this gift that I have.  So that may be an introduction for a program I may want to execute in the future.  Or maybe one day call Anguilla home.  Who knows what the path of life will bring?

Not to mention that I am also involved in a research project of glaucoma prevelance on the island.  A professor had an idea to potentially pinpoint the amount of people that would be living on the island with Glaucoma.  There is no research about it thus far but we should have information regarding this eventually.  Although it may appear to be a lot, it is still what I think I am called to do.  I am greatful for the opportunity to participate in all of these lovely activities.  After attending church yesterday, I can only end with this:

If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

1 Corinthians 10:12-13, NLT

Later this week, I have an assignment to visit a senior citizen's home.  If I am allowed, I will try to take a few pictures and get a few good stories to give readers some entertainment.  If you would like to help me with my project for educating Anguilla on CPR, please do not hesitate to email me.  To all, stay blessed and I appreciate your prayers for greatness!  Have a blessed week!

Immigration and Thanksgiving

Hello all.  I hope you had a nice holiday.  I enjoyed the holidays by sitting in class with lectures and more lectures on endocrinology and nutrition.  I assure you that your holiday was a lot better than mine.  But before I get to that, let me explain immigration.

When I first got to the island, they stamped my passport for 6 months because that's what they did with the students before us.  The school sent an email notification of a new immigration requirement about 2 weeks before starting classes about this new requirement.  So the policy is now we, the students,  are required to pay for a student visa in which the students before us did not have to pay.  The cost of the student visa that last 3 years is in total, $600.  $100 for the application fee and $500 for the stamp.  Yes, that is a lot of money that one would have to budget for and it is consistent with my statement that your first semester is your most expensive semester.

Last semester, the immigration department was supposed to come to the school to process our paperwork but they failed to do so until this semester.  They came to the school last week to collect money from the students.  I gave them my passport and the money to receive a certificate valid for one year and a stamp in my passport.  I am no longer an illegal alien but yes I did just state that I received a certificate that last a year.  Apparently, I need to use my time to retrieve another.  But who knows?! Sometimes things change and processes change.  I am just complying.

I would like to also point out that the way of life in Anguilla is not similar to that of the United States.  In the United States, we are accustomed to getting everything very quickly and efficiently.  In Anguilla, it is not apart of their culture to be so.  I do like that if I need something that people will cater to you but in other things, it may be some things that move at a slower process than what we may be used to.  It is apart of the experience in another country.  So schools, grocery stores and salutations are all different.  But it may be what works for their country opposed to what we are used to.  It is just like we learn in ethics class, their (Anguillians) quality of life may be different than ours.

So to move away from that and talk about an American tradition which kind of contradicts what I just said.  A lot of students were really missing home so it would only be right to have potluck Thanksgiving dinners together.  I must say that I reaped the benefits of having a full belly but not a full mind.  I will have to make this up in my studying for certain.

Thanksgiving potluck in Anguilla

Thanksgiving was filled with dishes that included a little taste of home.  Now more than ever, we miss our families cooking and gatherings that we would have.  And just to think that we will be home in less than 3 weeks.  The only thing in my way is 3 presentations, 1 assignment and 5 exams.  You know, that now sounds like a lot.  I'm going to go study now.

Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.  And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.

-Genesis 3:1-13, KJV

Rainy Days and Cloudy Skies

Hi!  I know everyone has probably been dying to hear from me but it has been literally a lot of rainy days and cloudy skies.  On top of the rain, which is odd for my experience here in Anguilla, I have had some rainy days in my life back home.

Raining in Anguilla at School

Rainbow after the rain in Anguilla

Just to have proof, I decided to take a picture of it for the world to see.  By the way, I wasn't the only person to do this because a lot of students were surprised at the amount of rain that we were getting as well.  Afterwards, we had the rainbow of God's promise show up on time.  It was such a beautiful sight that I just had to capture it and show it.  I know that we've all seen a rainbow plenty of times but I thought this was especially special because this is exam week and I have never been lead somewhere that God can't take me out of.  I can only speak for myself.

Crocus Bay

I am very sorry for writing so late but I have not had the best of days.  I have been attempting to make better study habits and so far I am succeeding.  I thought last block may have been my best block here but this one, although the hardest, may be my best one yet!  I promise I will stop saying that once I set better expectations for myself.  I will not discount medical school at all and say it is easy when it definitely is not.  There are just some parts that are more challenging than others.  Juggling five classes doesn't seem very difficult until you add in the extracurricular acitivities that some students take part in as well as Walden University Masters degrees as well.  However, it is all manageable because many students before me have done it all successfully.  Up to now, you know that I am involved with Anguilla Red Cross and Cover 2 Cover.  LAst Saturday, there was an event for Red Cross at Crocus Bay involving kids.  We had activities for the local children as well as some of the students children.  Due to obvious reasons, I did not take any pictures of the children but here's a picture of the beach.

So before, I introduced the troubles of this semester.  I am not sure if I included my dad getting sick on top of all the weight that I carry as well as other things.  This week alone, my computer has decided to quit on me.  I was blue screened about 4 times in 3 days.  I decided to give it a rest and just upload everything to a cloud so I could still access powerpoints.  I just may have to do the old school method and take notes in class with pen and paper opposed to a laptop for a while.  This is very frustrating however when you are studying for your toughest exam yet and your most reliable source of information just decides to stop working.  It's kind of like your kidney which I learned about this block.  You never realize how important it really is until it stops working.  But life moves on and I still have to study.  So now, I have pretty much taken over a library computer cubicle since not a lot of students use them unless they are printing.

 So to also accompany the troubles of my week, the police had a checkpoint like they often do and who is the person to get flagged down?  Fortunately, it took less time than I expected.  But let's progress with my day.  Shall we?

My friends and I at Junk's Hole

Junk's Hole

Junk's Hole

I go to take my exam that I am overly excited to take.  I think I was as ready as I was going to be.  I must say that I thought I was.  So as I am taking the exam, I am not really judging my time at all.  I was on question 37 out of 50 when there was 15 minutes left.  This includes the additional 10 minutes we received for the exam.  I did not "finish" this exam but I still passed because I filled in some bubbles as I was walking toward the teacher to hand in my paper.  My second exam was better because I finished and then my friends and I went exploring before we attended a Breast Cancer Walk for the island hence the pink shirts.  We went exploring on the East end of the island in Junk's Hole to look at the beauty we have around us.  Here's some pictures of our adventures for the afternoon.  After taking some pictures for social media because that's somewhat of what we do, we attended the breast cancer walk.  I was told somehow that the walk would only be 1 mile and another student thought the walk was 2 miles.  Two hours later and 5 miles walked, we finished.  It was dark by that time so sorry for the lack of pictures of that.  It was a lot of people supporting the cause by wearing pink shirts and walking.  There were even a few that ran.

My friend and I at the Breast Cancer Walk

 But even in the midst of all my troubles this week, I still managed to smile through it all because there are far worse things that could have happened and I am still blessed for having what I have.  To give an update on my family, my dad is doing better.  He is home out of the hospital and trying to be the master chef that he is when he can.  My friend's cousin, Deepika, is at home waiting while money is still being raised on her behalf and she is sustaining currently on oxygen therapy.  She is still waiting for her transplants however.  I will make a page for her since this will be a recurring theme and will be updated as needed.  Again, here is the link to her GoFundMe page.

All in all, I have to end and go study for my biochemistry and neuroanatomy exams.  It seems that this is all I ever seem to do.  I still haven't caught up on my TV shows that everyone said I would be able to watch.  As some motivation for troubling times, here's this:

"Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you,Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

-Isaiah 41:10, NKJV

Unthinkable Things and Studying

So hello again!  I have been so busy studying lately that I have not had the chance to write but I figured I would force myself to do so tonight.  To point out, next Friday and the following Monday will be our Block 3 exams.  We have a histology quiz set for Friday and an anatomy quiz on the upcoming Monday.  I would say that it's a pretty busy time but it is time as usual.  After the first block, it is pretty easy to get used to a set schedule.  But before you know it, like now, you realize it's almost the end of the semester.  And God knows that I cannot wait!

Our classroom, MD1, Summer 2015 at
Saint James School of Medicine

So nothing interesting has been going on in my world.  Some things that are going on around the island that may seem uncommon would be the fact that there is a basketball camp going on this week with Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans hosting it.    On Saturday for the conclusion of the camp, they are having a free concert featuring Wale and some other artists. I’m thinking of attending although I would be sacrificing studying.  The school is also hosting its annual health fair on Sunday where we actually perform diagnostic checks of vital signs for the locals here and the professors give the advice.  I think that’s how it works.  It is sponsored by the Red Cross and it has really made an impact on the community here from what I’ve heard.

Anguilla Church of Christ in Blowing Point, Anguilla

So I just thought I would mention that since we had a “seat cushion incident” that if you’re thinking about bringing a seat cushion, I highly suggest it.  It took me about two weeks for my behind to adjust to the hard chairs that we have and I am still not entirely comfortable.  I would also suggest a jacket.  The classrooms are normally cold in the morning and in some, people actually use blankets.  I’m not that extreme but it is all about how your body functions in air conditioning.  Lastly, books.  Books can be purchased and brought here with you or you can wait until you get here and let an upperclassman give them to you on a hard drive.  I will mention that hard copies may be useful especially during hurricane season when the electricity has the tendency to go out for periods of time.  I did not bring any books except one but next semester, I plan to utilize the Cover 2 Cover resources available as well as the library resources.

Lastly, I mentioned that I would give you pictures of the church and I also wanted to give you a picture of me and my friends playing in the water at Mead’s Bay.  It took us about 10 attempts to get our feet completely organized for the perfect shot which we still complained about. 

Photo with Friends at Mead's Bay, Anguilla

It was a fun day with the sunset.  Also, this week marks the conclusion of Ramadan which I have had several classmates that have fasted every single day and I must commend them of their efforts.  It is just amazing I must say.  To end, I would state this:

“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them.  Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.  Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men.  Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.  But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that our charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

Matthew 6:1-4, NKJV

Estimated Budgets and Other Budget Busters as a Student

BLOCK 2 is finally OVER!!!  Okay, so I completely understand that you may not even know what that means but basically the semester is divided into 4 sections called blocks.  The end of the blocks have celebratory exams to assess your learning of that section.  I would say that I did better than last semester.  At this point, I just want to make sure that I pass.  A’s and B’s are not my major concern because after all this is medical school.  To celebrate, I went with some friends to Mead’s Bay to a restaurant called Blanchard’s.  Here’s a few pictures if you want to see my adventure as well.

So today’s topic is financials.  A few days ago, I posted on Facebook that if anyone wanted to contribute to the poor fund of Ariel Sheppard, to send me a message.  I think everyone thought it was just a joke although I was very serious.

Since I have been here, I have been milked for money.  Actually before I left home.  Before leaving home, everyone in my class received an email stating that the immigration laws have changed in Anguilla and they now require that ALL students have the student visa documentation from our class on.  This is before we find places to live and after we’ve paid about $10,000 for tuition and enrollment fees.  By the way, the $1000 to hold your seat does NOT go toward your tuition but to the enrollment fee instead. The student visa documentation requirement cost a total of $600 consisting of a $100 application fee and $500 documentation fee.  The application is actually due today as a matter of fact.  I didn’t plan to spend this much money in my first semester but it is very difficult not to when you have fees such as this.

Also, to point out, the upperclassmen don’t have to worry about this fee because they are exempt so this is only for future classes.  Sounds a little unfair in my book, but life is unfair.  My class did argue that we were misinformed about this fee because it was never mentioned in the webinars but the argument was that we were told that additional fees may apply.  I hate the fine print sometimes.

Either way, between the price of an apartment with electricity, internet and gas plus the cost of food, I think it is safe to say one could spend $700-900 per month easily.  For example, I pay $480 for rent and electricity was $36 which was split between 4 people.  Internet can be about $80 a month if you get it from the cable company which has the fastest speed.  Gas for cooking is needed depended on how often you cook.  Not to mention the cost of water when you have a cistern but depending on how much you use it or if the landlord covers it depends on how much you may spend.  About 5000 gallons is around $300.  And the cost of food?  I’ll take some pictures and let you decide.  All prices are in EC which is $2.68 to our US $1.  When I am shopping, I typically divide everything by 3 to overestimate the cost and determine if I would like to buy whatever it is I am looking at.  Depending on if you like to go out to eat determines the extra cost you could incur.  The restaurants here don’t exactly have lunch specials or anything similar.

Another thing that may affect your wallet, it is not necessary to buy that 90 day return flight ticket when you enter the country because you get a stamp that last 6 months.  And yes you could use this instead of the student visa but Anguilla just now wanted to start enforcing this law.  Attempt to rent somewhere that comes with a car.  Or just make some friends with people who drive so you can go places when needed.  Plus, if you needed to start a diet, it’s very easy because the cost of snacks and sweets is more expensive than fruit.  I’ve already lost 23 pounds thus far.

So the words for the week include that of faith while taking the wisdom of others.  This week’s sermon included scripture from Daniel when he was convicted of praying to God by his peers but he was spared in the lion’s den like I was for exams.

My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

-Daniel 6:22

New Block, New Day

So I know it has been a while but I got into the groove of school and when I had to time to mess around, I kind of forgot to write on here.  But I promise to do better I promise. I must say that I am handling two schools very well.  Or so I think.

If you recall, I am attending Walden University at the same time attending Saint James School of Medicine.  Yes, I know.  You don't have to tell me.  I know.  It is difficult but a lot easier than you think.  I only work on Walden University work twice a week.  And I am pursuing a Master's in Higher Education so that makes it a lot easier.  I have two other classmates pursuing Master's in Business and another Master's in Healthcare Administration.  Overall, I think my program is the easiest.  Plus it's helpful in paying for my education for St. James.  I will add that the refund that I received from Walden is not enough to cover the cost of tuition which does not even include living expenses.  So still, I will have to apply for the Delta loan so that I can eat and sleep somewhere safe.

Now onto what you really want to know about.  I survived Block 1.  Block is how the school divides the semester and it is the exam period for all of your courses.  I will also add that everyone has them at the same time which is good and bad.  The upperclassmen are the available tutors but being conscious that they are studying for their exams as well as helping you study yours can make you feel more considerate when asking them questions.  I won't share how I did but I will say that I am pleased with my first quarter grades and I think I could of performed better.  It wasn't the greatest start but I know I have a chance of surviving MD 1 if I perform consistently.

I also will share that starting in the summer is an advantage because of the many holidays that we observe.  Already we have had three days off from school because of holidays.  I'm not complaining because the extra study day wasn't a bad thing.

So far, I think that my favorite course is embryology.  It may be a little biased because I do like the human life a lot but it's a great course overall to see how our organs came to be.  I can only say that everything has its specific place and our body was made in its way for a reason.  I can honestly say that I am amazed in all my courses at least once per class.  So generally about 4-5 times daily.

But I think someone would rather know about my study habits.  It makes a lot of sense since I wake up to this everyday.

View of St. Martin from my Porch

Not to brag but it's there.  Every morning.  Beautiful as ever.  I did say when I moved here that I was going to enjoy it as much as I can.  I very much appreciate my view each and every morning.  I will mention that my budget has been blown since I've been here.  For future reference, I'm going to have to do better.  Back to my study habits.  I will also mention that my study habits are going to start changing for this Block because cramming for a week before the exam was just not the right thing to do.  I am actually starting strong by reading through the material before class and it is really helpful.  I also suggest asking for help when you need it because before our review lab the week of blocks, I had no idea what the names of the coronary vessels were until I asked the professor and he showed me one by one on the cadaver.

I also will admit I did call home crying (home sick) last weekend because I had no clue as to why I came down here but this blog is a reminder of what this journey is about.  I will say that when I moved here, I did not rent a car at all.  A lot of students do to get around and maintain their sanity.  I suggest it if you can afford.  Me, however, I don't come from money that allows me to do such a thing.

I also have to mention that for some humor that the bus driver really would like to take me on a date.  Well, that is a great idea and all especially being that I mentioned having a boyfriend before.  But getting on the bus every morning hearing "Good Morning Gorgeous" isn't bad either.

 So far, this journey has been full of happy moments and tears at the same time.  I am praying for better days and study habits.  Tomorrow night, there is a block party at this island called Scilly Cay.  I'm not going simply because a professor said it is pretty expensive to drink there and drinking with people I don't know just doesn't sound very safe as well.  I'm sure that I would rather study and go to a beach on Saturday anyway.  I know I sound like a party pooper but there are plenty of opportunities to do things.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12, NIV