Wrapping up this school stuff…

The foundation of medical school is a series of hoops… if you maneuver through them, you will eventually become a physician.  The fun part comes from enjoying the patient interaction and supplementing that foundation with something that adds more substance – such as research or outreach work.  At times, I think I have pursued the supplemental experiences to the neglect of the basics.  However, I have almost cleared all the hoops that stand in my way.  I took the final portion of my medical school boards last week, which involved a whirlwind trip to Philadelphia.  The test involves seeing 12 patients in a row, with 15 minutes to take a history and physical, and then 10 minutes to write a comprehensive medical note.  It’s pass/fail bullshit, and I think it went fine.  One more test this Friday, and I will be done with ALL my medical school exams.

Also due this week is my rank list for residency programs.  It’s a bizarre and complicated system where I rank programs that I interviewed at based on my preference.  The programs, at the same time, rank all applicants based on who they want most.  The lists are thrown into a computer, and a legally binding contract emerges that determines the next three years of my life.  My list is finalized after having undergone major revisions this weekend while drinking some Sierra Nevada Pale Ale.  Alcohol is an excellent truth-serum when making major choices like this.  I will be happy at any of the places I may end up – though the list is fairly random.

It is highly likely I will be leaving NYC, which is intentional.  I didn’t apply here.  I love the city, and it has been a great 4 years.  However, I need some open space… though I will miss the Indian, Thai, Spanish, Turkish, Tibetan, and all other ethnicity food that this place is so wonderful for.

I find out March 20th where we are headed.  I am determined to let the anxiety get to me and just enjoy NYC while I can.

I am running in early March in a Central Park race that is orchestrated in part by Einstein.  If you’re feeling generous, please donate – it’s to a good cause.  A big THANKS to those of you that have already given!

A minor update re: major life changes…

I got hitched exactly one month ago.  We are still talking about how much fun we had.  Truly one of the best nights ever. 

After that, the two of us went to Costa Rica for 7 days, which was amazing.  We will be going back when the opportunity arises. Pictures can be found at my Picasa gallery.

After getting back to NYC, I went back to the lab to hammer out a few more things there.  Much of my time has been spent studying for step 2 (medical boards) which I took today.  Nothing like a 9 hour test on a computer with a shitty flickering monitor.  You’d think they’d be able to adjust the hertz, but nope… a few ibuprofen/eyedrops/beers later and my head and eyes are still killing me. 

So what next?  Heading back to the hospital for February and likely continuing lab work in the evenings.  Other than that, I’m going to try and enjoy my last few months in NYC… as much as I can’t wait to leave, there will be a lot I will miss.