White Coat Dreamin

Teen in Scrubs: Chasing the Dream of Becoming a Doctor

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  • Busy Summer: A London Getaway

    As the summer draws to a close and the school year looms on the horizon, I find myself reflecting on the whirlwind of experiences that made this summer one to remember. Being in 11th grade, I knew that this summer would be crucial—both for my academic journey and for personal growth. And boy, was it busy!

    A Quick Trip to London: A Much-Needed Break

    After weeks of intense clinical work, I took a short trip to London to unwind with the family. It was exactly what I needed to recharge for the upcoming school year. London is a city that didn’t fail to impress, and even though it was a short visit, I made the most of it. From the historic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, every moment was filled with excitement.

    What I loved most about London was its blend of the old and the new. Walking through the streets, you could see centuries-old buildings standing next to modern architecture, and it reminded me of how diverse and dynamic the world is. The food, the culture, the people—it was all a refreshing change of pace from the clinical environment I had been immersed in.

    Looking Ahead: New School Year, New Goals

    Now, with the school year just around the corner, I feel more ready than ever to take on the challenges of 11th grade. My summer experiences have given me a clearer sense of what I want to achieve, both academically and personally. The clinical activities strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in medicine, while my time in London reminded me of the importance of taking breaks and enjoying life’s moments.

    As I prepare to dive back into textbooks, assignments, and exams, I’m carrying with me the lessons and memories from this summer. It’s going to be a busy year, but I’m ready for it, and I can’t wait to see what new experiences lie ahead.

  • Behind the Scenes in Healthcare: A Day in the Life of a Scrubs & Scopes in hospitals

    This wraps up my summer activities. I had an opportunity to be part of a “Scrubs and Scopes” camp at a local Children’s hospital. During my camp experience, I got to dive into various healthcare roles, each one offering a unique perspective on the medical field.

    GI CNA: I spent time working as a GI CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), where I had the task of checking in on and rooming 67 patients a day. Cleaning was a huge part of the job, and I used a lot of sanitary wipes—around 20 per room—so I had to move fast. There was one chaotic moment when I ran out of wipes and had to call Central Services because I couldn’t find any in the storage rooms. One memorable interaction was with a toddler who didn’t want to leave their mom’s arms for a weigh-in. We figured out a creative solution by weighing both mom and child together and then just the mom to subtract the difference. I even had to check in some patients via Zoom, which was a new experience for me.

    Pharmacy Rounds: I shadowed a pharmacist during rounds in the GI unit, where I was part of a team that included a GI doctor, a nurse practitioner, a pharmacist, 2 residents, and 2 fourth-year medical students. We saw 15 patients from 7:30 am to noon. Pre-rounds involved the residents and medical students conducting check-ups and physical exams on the patients before presenting their findings during rounds. I asked a medical student what they liked most about rounds, and they humorously replied, “when they end.” The pharmacist played a crucial role, answering questions about medicines and dosages, and addressing any concerns the team had. Some team members had computers or monitors attached to rolling tables, making it easier to move from room to room and floor to floor.

    Nuclear Medicine: In the Nuclear Medicine department, I learned about PET scans. I watched as radioactive isotopes were mixed into oatmeal or mac and cheese, which the patients then ate. We tracked a child’s digestion over four hours by taking photos of their abdomen every 15 minutes. Between these snapshots, the child got to watch a movie, making the long process a bit more bearable.

    Chemistry Lab: My time in the Chemistry Lab was eye-opening. The lab was not sterile, and the temperature was comfortable. Everyone there had an MLS (Medical Laboratory Science) degree. I wore a blue cloth over my clothes for protection and got hands-on experience with testing calcium and plasma levels. The tests themselves took about 55 minutes, but the machine could run multiple tests at once. Before testing patient samples, the scientist ran control tests to ensure the machine was working correctly. I saw the scientist preparing around 25-35 vials for different patients, showcasing the detailed and precise work that goes on behind the scenes.

    Each of these experiences gave me a deeper understanding of the various roles within healthcare and the teamwork required to ensure patients receive the best care possible.

  • From Sutures to Scenarios: My Journey Through Stanford’s Clinical Summer Internship

    I had the incredible opportunity to attend Stanford’s Clinical Summer Internship program, where I explored a wide range of topics in the medical field. From learning how to suture to understanding the anatomy of the heart, and even spending a day in the life of an orthopedic surgeon, the experience was both challenging and rewarding.

    I gained insight into what it means to be a physician-scientist. One of the key skills I developed was how to take detailed notes on patient cases and present them to a group of medical professionals, which was an invaluable experience in understanding the critical thinking required in the field.

    Throughout the program, we covered various topics in our lectures, including:

    • Diabetes
    • Emergency medicine
    • Brain anatomy and function
    • Radiology
    • Kidney anatomy and function
    • Heart anatomy and function

    One of the most memorable aspects of the program was the hands-on experience of dissecting a pig kidney, a sheep brain, and a pig heart. This practical approach allowed me to apply what I learned in lectures to real-world scenarios.

    I also gained a deeper understanding of the role of Physician Assistants (PAs) by participating in clinical scenarios. In one exercise, I had to diagnose a “patient,” played by a PA, by asking the right questions—a task that taught me the importance of communication and attention to detail in medicine.

    Overall, this internship not only expanded my knowledge of the medical field but also solidified my passion for pursuing a career in medicine. This has been my favorite experience of the summer of 2024!

  • Inside the World of Pediatric Nursing: A Firsthand Experience at Children’s Hospital Nurses Camp

    During my time at a local Children’s Hospital Nurses Camp this summer, I had the unique opportunity to step into the world of pediatric nursing. About 4 immersive days, I shadowed experienced nurses across various hospital units, from the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CICU) to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and surgical wards. This experience not only exposed me to the complexities of patient care but also provided invaluable insights into the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals. However, the camp ended abruptly on the fifth day due to a worldwide cyberattack that disrupted hospital systems, a stark reminder of the crucial role technology plays in healthcare. My journey through the camp was both educational and inspiring, offering a glimpse into the compassionate and demanding world of nursing.

    Day 1:

    • Hospital Tour: Explored various clinics, including rehab and NICU, and enjoyed a rooftop garden and lunch.
    • CICU Shadowing: Observed three nurses, visited six patient rooms, and learned about ECMO, a critical life support system. Gained insights into the roles of different healthcare professionals and the benefits of nurse unions on the West Coast. Nurses work 12-hour shifts, three times a week.

    Day 2:

    • NICU Shadowing: Assisted nurses caring for preemies, including tasks like diaper changes and checking for blood clots. Watched PT create a cast for a baby’s hand and observed the administration of caffeine and narcotics. Learned about safety protocols, like double-checking dosages with another nurse.

    Day 3:

    • Surgical Unit Shadowing: Encountered post-op patients and observed safety measures for infectious cases. Met patients with various conditions, such as Noonan syndrome and HLHS. Enjoyed snacks in the nurse lounge.

    Day 4:

    • PACU Shadowing: Focused on the pre-op section, following nurses as they prepared patients for surgery. Witnessed a mix-up with medical records, observed surgeries, and learned about pre-surgery protocols, including fasting and allergy checks. Noted the busy pace and the coordination between nurses, anesthesiologists, and doctors.

    Day 5:

    • Unexpected Cancellation: The final day of the camp was unexpectedly canceled due to a worldwide CrowdStrike event that caused hospital systems to go down. This abrupt end highlighted the critical role of technology in healthcare and the vulnerabilities that can disrupt patient care.

  • Reflections of a 10th grader: Wrapping up exams and beginning of summer

    It’s been a whirlwind of a school year, and I can’t believe I’ve finally wrapped up my AP exams and finals. After all that intense studying, it feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. But the excitement doesn’t stop there – I’ve also resumed my volunteer work at Evergreen, and I’ve been gaining some amazing new experiences.

    Volunteering at Evergreen has always been a highlight for me, but this time it’s been extra special. I’ve had the opportunity to escort wheelchair patients, and it’s been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. At first, I was a bit nervous. I wanted to make sure I was doing everything right and making the patients feel comfortable and safe.

    One of the things I’ve learned is how important it is to communicate clearly and kindly. A simple smile and a few words of reassurance can make a world of difference. I’ve met so many wonderful people and heard some incredible stories from the patients I’ve assisted. It’s amazing how much you can learn from just a short conversation.

    Another thing that stood out to me is how teamwork is crucial in a healthcare setting. The staff at Evergreen have been so supportive and patient, always ready to lend a hand or give advice. It’s inspiring to see how everyone works together to make sure the patients receive the best care possible.

    This experience has taught me a lot about empathy and responsibility. Escorting wheelchair patients isn’t just about pushing a chair; it’s about making a connection, understanding their needs, and ensuring they feel valued and respected. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.

    As I look back on this year, I feel proud of the challenges I’ve faced and the growth I’ve experienced. Balancing schoolwork and volunteering have been tough, but it’s also been incredibly fulfilling. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and excited to continue learning and growing, both academically and personally.

    So, here’s to the end of another school year, and to all the new experiences that lie ahead. Whether it’s acing exams or making a difference in someone’s day, every effort counts.

  • Finding My Voice: School Leadership Activities and Learnings

    I’m a 10th grader who’s been really involved in our school’s activities. This year, I served on the inclusion and advisory committee for our school district. It was such a great experience working with others to make our school a better place for everyone. I also decided to take a big step and run for class officer and ASP treasurer. Spoiler alert: I didn’t win either election.

    Here’s what I learned from the experience:

    1. Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

    Running for office was nerve-wracking, but I’m proud of myself for trying. It was a big leap, and that’s a win in itself.

    2. Handling Defeat

    Losing taught me to handle disappointment and keep going. It’s a chance to grow and improve, not a reflection of my worth.

    3. Gaining New Skills

    Campaigning helped me improve my communication, organization, and time management skills, which will be useful in the future.

    4. Building Relationships

    I understood the loyalty friendships can bring when all my friends supported me unconditionally. I met many new people and formed valuable connections during my campaign.

    5. Staying Involved

    Even without an official position, I’m committed to making a difference through the inclusion and advisory committee and other activities.

    To my fellow students, don’t hesitate to pursue your goals. Every experience helps you grow as a person.

  • Finally Got My Driver’s License!

    Hey everyone!

    I can’t believe I’m writing this, but guess what? I finally got my driver’s license! 🎉🚗

    Today was a mix of nerves and excitement. After months of studying the manual, practicing with my parents, and stressing over every little detail, the big day finally arrived. I passed the written test a while ago, which was a huge relief, but today was the real deal: the driving test.

    On the day of the driving test, my mom drove me to the Driver’s Ed office, and she wished me good luck. She asked me to just stay calm and remember everything I’ve practiced.

    When we got to the Driver’s Ed, my heart was racing. The examiner, Mr. Josh, was a pretty intimidating guy at first, but he turned out to be really nice. He walked me through the process, and then it was time to hit the road.

    We drove through some quiet streets and busy intersections, and I made sure to signal, check my mirrors, and stick to the speed limit. We did some parallel parking. It wasn’t perfect, but I managed to get the car in the space without hitting anything.

    After we returned to the Driver’s Ed office, Mr. Josh looked at me and said, “Congratulations. You passed.” I couldn’t believe it! I had to call my parents and let them know immediately. My mom was on her way to pick me up, and when I told her the news, she was so excited. Even my little brother congratulated me.

    Getting my license feels like such a huge milestone. I can’t wait to drive to school, pick up my friends, and drive my mom around town.

    Thanks for reading, and for all the support you guys have given me along the way. Here’s to new adventures and the open road!

  • Empowering Voices: Inspiring Debates in Seattle’s Schools

    This month, I’m taking a break from medical-related topics to share my experiences as a passionate debate judge for middle schoolers. As a middle schooler, I was an active participant in my school’s Debate club and won the championship award as the undefeated team in the Pacific Northwest Middle School Debate Tournament. I have also been recognized as by Speech & Debate teacher as follows-

    “Despite being one of the younger members of class in a mixed-grade, 9th-12th grade class, Monica set a very high bar for herself and her classmates with her first speech. She was calm, poised, and so obviously has had quite a bit of speaking experience outside of this class. Monica’s voice is naturally on the softer side, but when she projects her voice, and with the assurance she brings, you could almost hear a pin drop in the room. Well done, Monica!”

    Now, in high school, I’ve had the honor of being invited as a judge for the second consecutive year in Seattle’s Northshore School District’s middle school debate competitions. The level of talent and dedication displayed by these young debaters has truly impressed me. Witnessing how they’ve sharpened their argumentative skills and critical thinking abilities is incredibly inspiring. Each team brings a distinct perspective to the table, addressing complex issues with eloquence and fervor. Whether it’s discussing climate change or social justice, the topics they delve into are not only relevant but also reflective of our generation’s concerns. It’s a privilege to observe these future leaders engaging in thoughtful discourse and advocating for change.

  • Navigating the Halls: My Journey as a Volunteer at EvergreenHealth Medical Center

    My volunteering gig at Evergreen Health Medical Center has been quite the journey! Before I even stepped foot onto the hospital floor, I had to go through a bunch of trainings. Like, a bunch. They were pretty important though. First up was learning how to handle a wheelchair. I thought I knew how to push one but turns out there’s a proper technique. Who knew?

    Then there was the hospital layout training. Man, that place is like a maze! But after a few sessions, I started to get the hang of it. Next on the list was all about privacy and HIPAA. That’s some serious stuff. They drilled it into us how important it is to keep people’s info safe and confidential.

    And oh boy, the hospital code training! I never knew there were so many codes for different emergencies. It’s like learning a whole new language. But hey, now I know what to do if I hear code blue or code red announced over the intercom.

    After all those trainings, I finally got to start my first shift. I was nervous, but also excited to finally put all that learning into action. Turns out, volunteering at Evergreen Medical Center isn’t just about helping out; it’s about being prepared and making sure you know your stuff. And honestly, I’m grateful for all those trainings because they’ve made me feel more confident in my role here. Bring on the helping!

    Volunteering at Evergreen Medical Center has been such a fulfilling experience! There have been so many rewarding moments, but one that really stood out was when I got to help a patient find their way to the clinic. They looked sort of lost wandering around the halls, so I went up to them and asked if they needed help. Turns out, they were trying to find the clinic for their appointment and also the escalator to get there. I was able to guide them there, and seeing the relief on their face was just priceless. I got to hear a few kinds in return “you are really sweet and attentive”. It felt amazing to make a difference, even in a small way, and it showed me just how much of an impact I can have on people’s lives.

  • Oh Hello 2024 ~New Year, New Beginnings!

    As 2024 rolled in, I felt a surge of excitement and nerves swirling inside me. I turned 16! Finally reaching this milestone opened up a world of opportunities, not just in terms of driving or hanging out with friends, but also in pursuing my dreams of making a difference in the community.

    Applying to the Evergreen Hospital’s volunteer program was a step into the unknown for me, a mix of excitement and nervousness. After submitting my application, I eagerly waited for a response, hoping for the opportunity to make a difference in my community. When the email finally came inviting me for an interview, my heart raced with anticipation. I arrived 20 minutes early on the interview day and waited at the front desk area on blue floor for the volunteer manager to escort me. This was my first interview ever! Walking into that room for the one-hour interview gave me the desire to prove myself worthy of this chance.

    As the interview progressed, I found myself opening up about my passion for helping others, my eagerness to learn, what I was hoping to learn from this opportunity, and my commitment to making a positive impact. I soon found myself at ease, speaking from the heart, sharing my genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to Evergreen Health’s mission. As the interview drew to a close, I couldn’t shake the feeling of uncertainty. Did I say the right things? Did I make a good impression? As I was waiting in the room, I heard the interviewer say “Congratulations, you’ve got the position!” and handed me all the paperwork to fill in and directed me to the Human Resources department for processing the paperwork and badge. In that moment, a wave of relief and joy washed over me, knowing that my journey with Evergreen Health had officially begun..