… literally.
This morning was jam-packed with information that seemed neverending. Granted, it was the stuff we’d been wanting to hear more about like what courses we would be taking, how exams were going to work, where to go for lab, etc etc. First a quick overview and then a word on certain subjects:
- We were first introduced to the curriculum and to the concept of basic skills examinations and certifications
- We were introduced to the rules of the labratory and the idea of skills examinations
- (Out of order now, since we were running late on time)…
- All main course coordinators (professors) were introduced to us at this time.
- We were supposed to get a break, but that didn’t happen. Curtis, an upperclassman, said, “Welcome to school. Get used to it!”
- Our Health Center faculty introduced themselves to us and let us know about the services offered.
- Financial aid personnel dropped by to scare the living daylights out of us. (Ohmygod…student loans, the bane of our existance!)
- Lunch took place on our own
- Then we stood in long lines waiting for our turns to be counseled in finanical aid, to be finger-printed for the crinminal background check (CBC), and to take photos for the class composite. (The photos were a horrible experience…yikes!)
Sorry if the post seems a little broken. Today was a VERY long day and I am trying to write down at least a few notes (otherwise, this post will never take place).
Had the pleasure of meeting Dianne (a fellow Hopkins graduate), Ashley, and Huayi.
We were told about the graduation competencies. There are six concepts which I’ll quickly list but not (at this moment) go further into detail: Integrity. Tolerance. Interpersonal Relationships. Initiative. Dependability. Attitudes. Function under stress. Appearance. Okay, I lied. Eight concepts 🙂
Next, we were told about our classes and how to read the exam schedule. Quick run up…
We have three types of courses this year: Year long (6 courses), Semester long (five courses), and one-and-a-half-semester-long (one course). Here’s info…
- Anatomy, Histology, Immunobiology/Microbiology, Physiology, Introduction to Human Disease (IHD) are year long courses. There is one final grade in May, but in December we know “where we stand.”
- The fall semester-long courses are Medical Statistics, Medical Genetics, and Embryology. We receive final grades for these in December.
- The spring semester-long courses are Neuroscience and Behavioral Science. We receive final grades for these in May.
- Biochemistry is a 1.5 semester long course. We receive a final grade in March.
All exams are administered via school-provided-laptops. A computer program randomizes our names to two sections.. either the day exam time or the afternoon exam time. We have no control over this… so get used to it!
Use the exam schedule to make plans accordingly. Know where your emphasis is (but don’t ignore the rest!). Study smartly!
And the part that sucks… when a specific section of the test finishes, you CANNOT go back to change an answer. Bummer!!
It is strongly recommended that we STAY ORGANIZED before, during, and after classes. This is ESSENTIAL. Review all new material within 24 hours to stay up-to-date (even if it is only skimming).
We will now be learning how to learn from cadavers.
By the way, make sure to care for yourself!
My info… I’m lab # 77. This Friday I will be in group #7N, but am week #3. (Yes, this is cryptic on purpose).
Aside from housekeeping…
Today we also took pictures for the class composite. We’re supposed to look like we’re wearing our white coats, except that none of the white coats provided fit me. Firstly, they were all men’s sizes and either WAY too small or WAY too large. And my face looked puffy. And pale. Too pale. *sigh* Oh well. Nothing I can do about it!
Had a great lunch with some of the girls.
Had an AMAZING time at the med school social sponsored by the school. Took tons of candid shots and got to know a group of students much better. (Nicholas, Amara, Nikunj, Bryan, Jean, among others). Played darts for the first time. Am now known as class photographer 🙂
Also, found a cycling partner for the longer rides on weekends!
Things couldn’t be better 🙂
Now, for photos:
Welcome to Orientation!
Sly shot of the professors ^_^
Ate with great groups of people
Hung out with and played games with others
And now, a good night to you all 🙂
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