Finito!

Yes! I am done with my first semester of nursing school! WOW.

I'm currently snowed in my lovely apartment, listening to Christmas tunes, and preparing for my journey home tomorrow for the holidays. It is such an incredible relief to be done with the first leg of this academic journey! I finished the semester strong, and managed to pull off good marks. All in all, I'm off to a good start!

Some reflections...

Med/Surg Seminar: This was my favorite class! I loved it. L and D were such fabulous instructors, and I learned SO much. And it's not just memorization followed by "brain dumps." I do truly feel that I have learned this material and I'm all the better for it. I by far performed best in this class, and studying for it was most tedious, but never a drag (thanks, E and S!).

Clinical: Focusing just on my second clinical rotation...I LOVED it. J was the most amazing preceptor. She really forced us to put ourselves out there and take responsibilities for ourselves and our skills. She gave me opportunities that I continue to brag about (ask me about the stool transplant!) and I was able to develop my bedside skills much more than my previous rotation. At the first rotation, I learned to interact and interview, but this rotation really drove home all practical aspects of bedside care. I read my evaluation, and J called me the leader of my clinical group. I was so flattered! I hope that the rest of my clinical rotations this year will be as rewarding as this past one. Psych is up next in January!

Pharmacology: It definitely took me a little while to ease into the structure of this class and the exams. I finished the semester very strong, but the class continues until March. This class is more of a memorize and brain dump kind of class, but I feel like I'm retaining the BIG players. In actuality, resources will always be available to me and I will always consult them when in doubt.

Biomed: Eh...I still don't care for this class very much. The material is presented in a manner that isn't my preferred learning style. I mostly take notes and end up teaching things to myself. I have a hard time retaining the info after class and I'm just not sure why. I'm doing fine in the class...but it's definitely my "just gotta get through it" class. This also continues until March.

Living in the New City: You know, this city has really surprised me. I wasn't expecting much, I'll be completely honest. But there are so many hidden gems: museums, galleries, cafes, music performances...I love it! My only complaint is that my car window has been smashed TWICE now and my car has been gone through. Zipcar is looking better and better... But I really do love it here, and I LOVE my apartment! I hope I never have to leave!!!!

Friends: One of the best parts of the program! The people I have met have been so spectacular, and it's amazing how close we have all gotten in such a short period of time. I really enjoy unwinding with these people, sharing drinks, studying, and just enjoying the city. A love-filled shout-out to: S, E, N, L, G, A, R, E, J, J, & M. You all have kept me sane these past few months...thank you!

Extracurriculars: I've been playing regularly with the Medical Symphony. It's so much fun! Now that music isn't my job, I love it so much more! We had a concert last week and I performed as a soloist. I don't know if I've ever enjoyed performing so much in my life. I'm hoping to keep this a constant in my life.

Job Front: I have started babysitting for 1 family, and I have interviewed with 2 other families. In addition, I've been hired as a part time employee of a local violin sales & repairs shop. I'm hoping this help me bring in enough money to stay afloat. I'm looking forward to all the new adventures planned for 2009!

Stay tuned for remembering 2008: at-a-glance!