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 

Last Stretch of MD3

Sorry folks but the busyness of the semester is winding down.  But there is oh so much to do before break can begin.  It only begins with teaching a couple CPR classes, a couple presentations, quizzes, reflections and 5 exams.  Yes, it is as bad as it sounds.

I appreciate all the prayers that are given for me in advance because I do need them to finish the semester strong. I have changed my mindset to think mostly positive things.  I will give a better update after exams on April 21.  I leave to go home to the United States on April 22 because I need to pick up some supplies for a few things.  Talk to you all soon!



Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

-Philippians 3:12-14, NKJV

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

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!

Happy New Year! (Sorry for the Late Post)

Hello World.  I am so sorry for not posting sooner but I went home and Christmas plus New Year's happened so....yea.  My bad.  And yes it is 12 days past the new year and I still think it is an appropriate greeting.

Life has been happening.  Since I last wrote, I attended the MD4 White Coat Ceremony.  I had a few friends to graduate and I will admit that I cried.  I spend an awful amount of time in the library and everyone that I would be in the library with is now gone except for a few.  It was a great ceremony.  It includes a few teachers speaking on how the students professional careers may be, reciting the Hippocratic Oath and of course, receiving their white coats.

After the ceremony, I proceeded to study and pass my courses better than I did in MD1.  I was so proud of myself.  Woohoo!  So maybe, if I want to, I can be a tutor for something but I have some other plans that I will disclose over time.  The big news is that I am now a MD3 student which means I only have 8 more months on this island left.  Sounds great but it can be or not!

So over Christmas break, I did do something useful and became an American Heart Association BLS Instructor.  I am proud of myself for doing something productive besides going shopping, eating all my favorite foods and gaining 10 lbs.  I say all of that but it really did happen.  Christmas with my family includes a lot of eating so I made sure to make up for all the homecooked meals that I missed out on especially at Thanksgiving.

I flew back to Saint Martin from Raleigh Durham Airport or RDU this time because it was cheaper to stay with my grandma for a night or two than to fly from Anguilla this time.  I must say she continued to feed me.  Now I feel like I have eaten an entire pig and I have to get back to eating right like I was before.

This semester will be a little different with new people joining the island.  Students and teachers included.  As well as new classes with different teachers.  This semester does have a longer schedule with classes 8 am to 5 pm each day but they all serve their purpose.  I am very optimistic although it is Day 4 of class but I am sure that I will be busy this semester for better reasons than none.

I will also mention that I moved again but I think this will be my final move on the island before I leave.  I probably wouldn't recommend all this moving however I can say that I had a very good tour of the island because of it.  I am now close to the ferry and am back to the alarm clock of roosters and chickens.  Oh how I missed it so much I had to find another place with the blessed sounds.  I will upload some pictures after I am completely settled but as for now, I have to get back to studying.

To everyone else, be safe and keep God first!
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3:6, KJV