Although Summer has come to an end, I continue to reflect over one of the most difficult times of my life. In summer 2018 I juggled a lot once my second semester of college ended. I decided to take two summer courses, work a part-time job, and volunteer at my local hospital. At first, the thought of taking on so many things at once was a terrifying feeling. Because I am Biology major, I took a history and math course over the summer to get ahead in my credits. It can be difficult to plan out courses during the semester especially when the majority of my courses are 4 credit hours that are heavy in science. Taking my basic courses over the summer gave me more room and time on my schedule to focus on those science courses.
I decided to work a part-time job at Shane’s Rib Shack to have extra money in my pocket aside from the money that my mother gives me. This opportunity was very challenging because there were so many tasks that needed to be done at every shift that I worked. The tasks that I had to perform included running the cash register, cleaning tables, prepping food, mopping the floors, cleaning the restrooms and taking out food to customers who were dining in. I worked 10 hours a week which was equivalent to about three to four days of work. The pay was a little higher than the wage that I earned in Work Study at my university, so the tasks that I had to perform was worth it. Many days were a challenge because I had to deal with many rude customers and employees.
I also volunteered at my local hospital every Saturday at 8:00 a.m. to gain clinical experience since I am a pre-med major. I volunteered in the Mammogram center. This was my most favorite part of my summer experience. It was very difficult to get up because I may have had to work a shift the night before. During my time volunteering, I was responsible for signing in patients to get their mammograms. I also assisted them with getting a gown when they were being taken back for their scans. During the weekday I shadowed a radiologist. I was able to view surgical biopsies and mammogram scans of various patients. During my time volunteering, there was a patient that was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. I was able to see the cancerous tumor on her mammogram scans as well as her ultrasound scan.
Summer 2018 was filled with ups and downs, but it helped me to grow as a person and as a future physician. I learned that you can do it all if you have great time management skills. I also discovered that life is what you truly make it. If you make the best out of your situation then you will have a more enjoyable time or easier transition.