As I near completion of my MSOM degree, naturally It prompts moments of reflection. Last trimester I completed all my academic courses, so all that remains are my final clinic shifts. Seeing patients in the clinic three full days out of the week feels really good — it’s giving me a glimpse of my future to come. I do have a greater sense of peace and focus when I see my patients, mostly because I don’t have to worry about homework assignments and impending exams. It gives me more time to research treatment plans, TCM patterns, and think about what my next steps are after graduation. In moments it feels surreal, because now I’m in the mentor role with a few students in the earlier trimesters.

The beginning of the program goes by slowly, but eventually things begin to pick up speed. One thing that I tried to remind myself is that life is about being fully present in the moment and the experience. Yes, as students it’s important to us to do well in our classes, but there is so much more to this graduate school experience. I encourage you to join clubs, go to the museum, volunteer, go for a walk, and sit in at the presentation in Janse Hall during lunch, because all of those experiences are valuable.

Take a look at this adorable snail I found on one of my walks. As we enter Week 5 of the Summer 2022 term, make sure you are taking care of yourself, go and schedule an appointment for yourself in the Whole Health Clinic. Have a great week and good luck to all the students on this upcoming week of exams!