MedEx Day 19

We started off the day discussing the different opportunities in achieving multiple degrees. Out of the ones we discussed, I have definitely considered trying for a MD/PhD as I have always been more interested in the research side of medicine. However, I feel as though the work required to get it may be more than I can handle, so I am not completely set on it!

After this, we heard the first of the last two Great Collaboration presentations, and I feel as though I learned a lot from it! The first group discussed patients with an eating disorder, and whether or not should they be forced to have treatment. I could see how this issue could be very complex, and that it should be handled differently on a case-by-case basis. I realized that some eating disorder patients don't seem to believe that they have a life-threatening mental illness, so treatment is forced for the sake of their life/ because they lack capacity. On the other hand, those who understand the issue have the option to refuse treatment as feeding tubes CAN cause issues. I never knew much about the treatment of eating disorders, but I know a lot more now about its treatment and the illnesses detrimental effects. The second group presenting discussed the termination of treatment in pregnant women with advanced directives. Although it's unfortunate, this topic has become very political now as it came down to the viability of the fetus. However, I feel as though the group did a great job coming to a compromise of letting all women know about advance directives in the doctor's office, as well as having a specific section of the advance directive to allow women to communicate their wishes if they became incapacitated while pregnant. I understand it is a very tricky situation, and it is difficult to know what to do in this situation, but I feel as though the group did a great job presenting all the research they could find and coming up with a solid argument!

After lunch, we heard a presentation by Ms. Becca on professionalism, which I feel was very important! It is always helpful to be reminded about the upmost necessity of certain actions, such as meeting deadlines and showing up on time. I know for me, it is easy to get complacent on taking every moment seriously and being as professional as possible, especially in the thick of the school semester! We then had some "Teach Me Something" worktime, and I got a good portion of the project done, which I am super excited about! I am going to be presenting on one of my favorite things, the viola!

After we had time to work on our project, we had an introduction to interviewing by the lead interns, which was super helpful! I enjoyed being able to go through each of the different types of interviews, as well as example questions that could be used. As I will be interviewing a lot as a professional in the future, these tips will be necessary in order to perform well, especially since I feel as though my interview skills are not the greatest! In congruence with this topic, we started a fun interview roulette! I was a bit nervous at the beginning about answering a question on the spot in front of others! However, the interns made me feel very comfortable in the environment I was in, and I felt as though I was able to be honest and fully myself in the answer, especially since my dad was included! Overall, it was an extremely useful experience as I was able to hear example questions and responses, and also have an idea of how I could prepare for a real interview!