Some Pre-Med Advice

Now that I have graduated as a pre-med student, I want to share some of my knowledge. The life of a pre-med is tough and there is so much that I wish I knew before I embarked on the journey. I know there is a lot of advice out there about what classes you should take, how to study and the best ways to prepare for the MCAT, but I noticed I had some tips of my own. So without further ado, here are some of my tips for all you pre-meds out there!

1. Take more than the recommended science classes. 

I can not emphasize enough how important it is to branch out in college. Take that one interesting film class or that sociology class. College is the time to see what is out there and find what truly interests you! I came in to college thinking I wanted to be a psychologist -- took an abnormal psych class and realized that while I find it interesting, I do not want that to be my life. I thought about changing my major so many times and so many of my friends did change their major. I can almost guarantee you that you will find something new that you want to do and it may not be medicine (and that’s okay!). My main point is, come into college with an open mind and be willing to try new things!  

2. Talk to your professors! 

Starting your freshman year, go to your professor's office (especially your science professors) and talk to them, ask for advice, let them know who you are. I wish I did this because when it came time to asking for letters of recommendations for graduate/medical school, I really had no one. Not only will talking to your professors help in the future with those letters, but they could help you in the future with getting research or volunteer opportunities under your belt. It’s all about networking. Yes, it is scary talking to them (trust me, I know) but they are there to help you!

3. Do your own research. 

This means reading nonfiction books on medicine, reading articles about new medical discoveries or watching documentaries. You want to stay up-to date on what's happening in healthcare. I find that this also keeps me motivated to reach my goals. Also, it will help you in the future when you interview for medical school. (Need a recommendation? I love Atul Gawande's books).

4. Keep a journal. 

No, not a "here is what I did today journal." I mean a journal where you write down all of your medical adventures. When you shadow doctors or volunteer at a hospital, write down what you did and what inspired you. This will help you immensely when it's time to write your resume or personal statement, and will even help during your interviews. Though it may seem like all of your experiences will stay fresh in your mind, they won't. What you did freshman year will seem like centuries ago when you are a senior. 

Have any questions or ideas for a future blog post? Leave them in the comment post below!

Gift Guide!

Here it is! A special gift guide for your entire family!! 

I made this gift guide thinking of gifts I would actually get for my own family. In fact, I have already ordered some of the gifts below. 

I hope you all like it! This post took a lot of work. 

Kate Spade Watch || Gray Gloves || Dooney and Bourke iPad Case || Glasses

Now as for the movies, I always give (and receive) movies for Christmas. What can I say? Movies are a my life! I chose three different films that I think most women will love. 

The Great Gatsby was one of my favorite films this year (hint, hint for future post) and the classic love story is perfect! 

If your mom or sister like comedy then Bridesmaids is a must-have!

Red 2 is a film for either your mom or grandmother. The older generation tend to love this film because it has all of their favorite actors. 

Star Wars Shirt || Camera Lens Mug || Jurassic Park || Movado Watch || iPhone Dock 

The movies I chose here I think every man would love (or women...I personally love these films). 

What guy doesn't wish he was James Bond? Skyfall was one of my favorite films last year! LOVED IT. 

Memento is an older film but a classic nonetheless. It is a great movie that I think does't get enough credit. And it was directed by Christopher Nolan! You can't beat that.

Now Pacific Rim is just your all around action packed robot vs. alien movie! I don't think there is any man out there who wouldn't find this entertaining.  

Don't Worry, Be Happy

With finals happening right now, I definitely know what it's like to be stressed. I get stressed really easily, but I have found some simple ways to alleviate that stress!

 1. Watch an episode of The Office. This always makes me feel better. The episodes are only 20 minutes long so it's not too long of break, but just enough to where I can rest my brain. The Office is my all time favorite show and I can always count on Micheal or Dwight to make me laugh. 

2. Go Outside! This is one of the easiest ones and it really does make a huge difference. Just stepping outside and breathing some fresh air does a lot to clear the mind. 

3. Get Coffee! Whenever I am really stressed I like to treat myself with some "fancy" coffee. White Chocolate Mocha anyone? If you don't like coffee then get a nice hot tea :)

4. Blast the music and do a quick clean. This ALWAYS helps with relieving some stress. My room can always use a quick clean and blasting my winter playlist while I clean for about 10 minutes leaves me feeling accomplished! 

5. Lastly, make a list of everything you need to get done. Even if you won't get to everything in that one day, getting all that's stressing you out onto some paper will help in calming your brain from over thinking. 

Finals Tips

Here it is, the end of the year and what does that mean? Finals.

This semester my final schedule is pretty light! I only have two finals,  which means I have a little bit of free time to make a Finals Tips guide!

The first tip is to gather all of the materials you need. Get all of your notes, PowerPoint slides, books and ORGANIZE them! I have made a finals binder so that I only have to carry one thing with me as I travel from the library, to the coffee shop, and back home. I separated them into my two classes and put important papers in sheet protectors. 

Here, I have my final study guide in a sheet protector. I am then writing out important notes for each of the terms and concepts we need to know. 

My next tip is to SCHEDULE OUT EVERY SINGLE DAY. After all of your material is gathered, it is easier to see exactly how much information you need to study. I then break it down day-by-day. I like to print out a separate schedule from my agenda so that it is solely focused on finals. 

I usually separate my days by chapters but of course make your schedule so that it works best for you. 

My next tip is to take plenty of breaks! You don't want to get burnt out by time the final comes around. I like to use the Pomodoro Technique. It really does help in keeping me focused. I also notice that I study much longer and my brain doesn't become so tired after 3 or 4 hours of studying. 

The next few tips are ones that I'm sure you've heard plenty of times before

1. Get PLENTY of sleep

2. Drink LOTS of water

3. Don't over do it with energy drinks and caffeine! (This is probably the one I have the hardest time with)

Lastly, at least an hour before your test STOP studying! Your brain needs a break! I like to relax by watching Netflix or just listening to music. Know that you have been studying and you are ready for the final! 

I hope these tips were helpful! Now go study! :)