Writing this, it's so hard to believe that junior year is over and that I am a senior in college. Time is flying by quickly, and new changes sprung upon me all year. In the fall, one of the most impactful experiences not only of the semester, but of my life, was traveling to Paris with six other classmates and my microbiology professor to explore the intertwining of science and art in the heart of France, where the father of microbiology, Louis Pasteur, made his residence. The trip was enlightening both scientifically and culturally. Because this was the first time I had been in a country where English was not an official language, it was almost shocking to not expect to be able to fully communicate with someone. Although there were only a few people who did not speak English, it was eye-opening to see another side of the world. Because art is one of my major passions, the city of Paris was ideal for experiential learning. Of the three main historical centers of art culture (Italy, Paris, and New York City), Paris is by far my favorite. That feeling of freedom of expression, Romanticism, and creativity still flows through the city as you are walking through the streets. Musee d'Orsay was my favorite museum that we visited, and my only wish is that I could have spent longer exploring. Historically too, Paris amazed me. It is incredible how old some buildings are, and visiting the Catacombs underneath the city was especially fantastic using the microbiology knowledge I had under my belt from the fall. I hope to go back soon!
Fall semester was one of my most successful yet. I felt confident, at ease, and balanced in my school work, extracurriculars, friendships, and health. I decided to follow one of my passions and pursue a sociology minor, a decision that I am very happy about. Sociology has become one of my true passions and defining points of my college career. I hope to utilize what I have learned and will learn in my professional career with patients facing barriers in access to healthcare.
The spring was more challenging, however, than the fall. This was the semester I had to finally make decisions about my future and prepare for medical school (aahh). Although medical school still seems a bit daunting, it is something that I am so excited to pursue. Something that has changed from the beginning of spring semester to the end of it is that medical school feels much more tangible and close. I decided after much deliberation that I will attend UC's College of Medicine and not pursue applying to other schools. Although the prospect of going to another city and exploring what other places have to offer, I love Cincinnati deeply and am not ready to leave. The passion that I have for this city and its people is too great to leave behind without gaining some skills in medical school to attempt to solve some of its issues. Cincinnati is the perfect size to explore health disparities: it is large enough to be able to really analyze, observe, and EXPERIENCE systemic problems, but it is small enough that a few determined individuals can have a real impact, and that is what I strive to do. At this time, I would like to pursue a career in pediatrics, and UCCOM is the perfect place to do so. I have fallen in love with the people at UC, and I can't imagine myself anywhere else. Now, I find myself this summer studying for the MCAT (and taking the MCAT) and working two part-time jobs that are aiming to elucidate local and state issues in access to healthy food, contraception, and postnatal care. I hope to write here again with positive experiences I've had from the upcoming weeks!
Fall semester was one of my most successful yet. I felt confident, at ease, and balanced in my school work, extracurriculars, friendships, and health. I decided to follow one of my passions and pursue a sociology minor, a decision that I am very happy about. Sociology has become one of my true passions and defining points of my college career. I hope to utilize what I have learned and will learn in my professional career with patients facing barriers in access to healthcare.
The spring was more challenging, however, than the fall. This was the semester I had to finally make decisions about my future and prepare for medical school (aahh). Although medical school still seems a bit daunting, it is something that I am so excited to pursue. Something that has changed from the beginning of spring semester to the end of it is that medical school feels much more tangible and close. I decided after much deliberation that I will attend UC's College of Medicine and not pursue applying to other schools. Although the prospect of going to another city and exploring what other places have to offer, I love Cincinnati deeply and am not ready to leave. The passion that I have for this city and its people is too great to leave behind without gaining some skills in medical school to attempt to solve some of its issues. Cincinnati is the perfect size to explore health disparities: it is large enough to be able to really analyze, observe, and EXPERIENCE systemic problems, but it is small enough that a few determined individuals can have a real impact, and that is what I strive to do. At this time, I would like to pursue a career in pediatrics, and UCCOM is the perfect place to do so. I have fallen in love with the people at UC, and I can't imagine myself anywhere else. Now, I find myself this summer studying for the MCAT (and taking the MCAT) and working two part-time jobs that are aiming to elucidate local and state issues in access to healthy food, contraception, and postnatal care. I hope to write here again with positive experiences I've had from the upcoming weeks!