September 2024-Pharmacology Blog

 

• Monthly Community Service Hours Completed 0 (as of Sept 25)
• Cumulative Semester Service Hours Completed 0 (as of Sept 25)

 

My first month at Tulane Pharmacology has been both challenging and rewarding. Coming straight from undergrad at LSU, I was eager to dive back into academics, but it took me some time to adapt to the different study style required for a master’s program. Graduate school is definitely more intense than undergrad, but once I found my rhythm, I started to really enjoy the coursework as well as my routine with answering the objectives and making Quizlet’s for myself and for my classmates.

            One of the most interesting things in my opinion that we’ve covered so far in Medical Pharmacology (which is my favorite class), and was on our most recent exam was antibiotics and HIV. Learning about HIV particularly caught my attention, not just because it’s a critical topic in medicine, but because Louisiana—especially Baton Rouge—is a hot spot for HIV infections. Working as a phlebotomist in undergrad in Baton Rouge we were constantly reminded how HIV was very prevalent in our city. Thus, it was fascinating to understand the pharmacological treatments available and how public health efforts are vital in managing the disease in our community. Given the local context, this learning felt especially relevant and impactful.

Outside of classes, I’m enjoying being back in my home city and spending time with my family. On weekends when I’m not working as a babysitter, or studying LOL..I’ve been exploring new bakeries and cafes around New Orleans. In my opinion, the only downside to life back in New Orleans is the 30-minute commute from Destrehan to the city, but it’s a small price to pay to be back home. For my volunteer hours, I’m am planning on tutoring kids in my local town of Destrehan who need help in certain subjects with feeding the homeless once a month. I am confident that I can reach 12 hours by the end of the semester. It will be a great way to balance academic life while contributing to the community in a meaningful way. Overall, my first month has been a mix of learning, community engagement, and fun weekend explorations, and I’m looking forward to what’s coming next!