SEPTEMBER CHECK-IN

• Monthly community service hours completed: 0
• Cumulative semester service hours completed: 0

    September has been a month of transition as I settle into the rhythm of graduate school and life in New Orleans. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2022, I decided to spend a few years working and serving my home community as an EMT on an ambulance. I was grateful for the experience I had accumulated, but I knew it was time to pursue my goal of becoming a doctor. Now, after returning from my school hiatus, re-entering the academic mindset has proven to take some time. Compared to the fast-paced and spontaneous environment in EMS, graduate school demands a methodical, well-planned, and organized sense of discipline and focus. Last week, we completed our module on infectious diseases, and I enjoyed learning in-depth about the microorganisms that I encountered frequently in the field.  My experience helped to digest the information: I recognised most of the medications and found the signs and symptoms very familiar, but fully internalising the material took a study discipline I felt out of practice with. Luckily, with the help of my instructors, tutors, and peers, I was able to perform well, and the culture shock of academic life is beginning to feel more manageable. With the critical thinking skills I acquired as an EMT and the study habits I am beginning to learn as a Pharmacology master's student, I will be set up well for my future in medical school and as a practising physician. 

    On a different note, growing up as a jazz musician in Sacramento, I have always been enamoured by the rich musical culture that is deep-rooted in New Orleans. When I was given the opportunity to move here, it seemed like it was meant to be. Between my studies, I've taken time to experience first-hand what music means to the New Orleans community. Seeing live traditional jazz and connecting with the musicians has been a powerful grounding outlet for me. I even met a few musicians that I knew from back home in California! I look forward to joining local jam sessions and engaging with community outreach through music. 

    In terms of direct community service, I am beginning to acclimate enough to get involved. I am excited to explore volunteer healthcare opportunities with my EMT license and participate in service with Volunteer NOLA for the unhoused. As an EMT, I often helped members of underserved populations, and it is important to me to continue giving back to those who are less fortunate. Overall, my first month at Tulane has been filled with learning and growth. I know challenges will continue, but each one brings me closer to my goal of becoming a doctor. Moving forward, I’m eager to see how my academic journey, community service, and passion for music will continue to shape the physician I aspire to become.