I am a proud alum of the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). As I mentioned in an interview, I double majored in African Studies and Sociology of Health and Medicine. Now imagine my shock to learn that my university abruptly decided to shut down its Africa Center. Yes, an elite university such as UPenn, shutting down the … Continue reading Penn Students Protest Abrupt Closure of the UPenn Africa Center
Conquer Your Obstacles: BE A SPARTAN!
I love obstacle races. There's something about being able to push my limits, to really test my strength, to challenge my physical and mental endurance, that just gets me GOING. It's no wonder "GRIT" is a characteristic and concept I value (see previous blog post here). I've competed in the Spartan Race for the past two … Continue reading Conquer Your Obstacles: BE A SPARTAN!
IT IS FINISHED – The Easter Experience
Category: Spiritual Life - My Musings Today is Good Friday. As a Christian this is something that's important to me - acknowledging the day Christ was crucified. It's also a season of celebration, because a few days later (Sunday), we celebrate Easter - His resurrection! For anyone in the Philadelphia area, I'm part of the … Continue reading IT IS FINISHED – The Easter Experience
Who Moved My Cheese?! – Reminiscing on Unexpected Changes
A few weeks ago, I was reflecting on my med school journey (as I often do), but this time getting frustrated. Why was my journey so different than I imagined it would be 6 years ago? In a matter of seconds, two words came to mind - curve balls. Yes, Derin, life is always going to … Continue reading Who Moved My Cheese?! – Reminiscing on Unexpected Changes
Get Fit and Fine with Dee!
It's been a while since I've talked about my fitness endeavors but I've certainly been busy! This past weekend, I had the opportunity of speaking at an event, the "Be Empowered: Live Workshop and Network Event" hosted by On-Point Eventz. I spoke on embracing your passion and getting paid for it, and used my fitness experience as … Continue reading Get Fit and Fine with Dee!
Updates: “Where You Been Girl?!”
It's been exactly 6 weeks since my last post, YIKES! It's not that I have nothing to write about or update on, it's just...well, a combination of different things: Been really busy - a promotion means more work. And boy, have I been working! The healthcare management course - Absolutely love it! I have so much … Continue reading Updates: “Where You Been Girl?!”
Meet Stacy – A 2nd Year Med Student at American University of Antigua
Considering a Caribbean medical school? Then check out Stacy's story. Stacy is a second year medical student at American University of Antigua (AUA). We met Summer 2010 through SMDEP (college freshmen and sophomores, I encourage you to APPLY!). She certainly had her share of curveballs on her journey to medical school. During her sophomore year of college, she fell ill with Lupus, a … Continue reading Meet Stacy – A 2nd Year Med Student at American University of Antigua
“I’ll Get Healthy If You Pay Me”
My eyes glistened with excitement when I read last line: "If you complete both the biometric screening and the online Health Assessment by the campaign deadlines, you’ll receive a $100 cash incentive award." Yes, bolded just like that. As if the writer imagined I might miss those magic words - incentive award. It almost seemed too … Continue reading “I’ll Get Healthy If You Pay Me”
The Dilemma: Dr. Maiden Name or Dr. Husband’s Name
The Harvard Medical Student Review published an article in their January 2015 issue, "Dr. Maiden Name Will Now See You Now" which highlights the decision female doctors make once married - to adopt their husband’s name or to keep their maiden name. The article includes the results of a survey taken by women in the second-year class at Harvard … Continue reading The Dilemma: Dr. Maiden Name or Dr. Husband’s Name
Reflecting on 2014: A Year of Greater
It's that time of the year when I sit and reflect on the year - the highlights, the lessons learned, the challenges, and the celebratory moments. To do this, I use my journal and scan through the many months of writing, laughing, "oOoo'ing" and "Awww'ing" all through the exercise. It is in this moment I … Continue reading Reflecting on 2014: A Year of Greater