Tri 7 is the last push before we advance into the clinic, something I am absolutely beyond excited for. That means we have to be adequately prepared, which just so happens to include a 28-hour credit load. I could sugar coat my message and say that just like any other trimester, it has its stressful moments, but I have been handling them well. However, I honestly can say this is the most run down and tired I have felt during any trimester. I haven’t been slacking, nor do I regret any decisions that have led me to this point, but it has really put into perspective how important it is to manage our stress and focus on our goals.

I have previously discussed how important challenging ourselves is, and how privileged we are to be in a position to pursue our dreams despite these academic hardships. So, I suppose the real message here is to remind you all that I, like all of you, am simply human and can only do my best. I have been reminding myself of all that I am learning, and how much more prepared I feel moving toward placement into clinic. I believe my patient interview and examination skills have already drastically improved since the beginning of the trimester, through my advanced diagnosis and clinical reasoning encounters, and I truly have enjoyed learning about and practicing the different modalities within our scope. I feel that through this blog, I have been given a special, truly one-of-a-kind opportunity to share my story and my unique experiences about our program, and with that comes me being honest and forthcoming as I convey my struggles.

With the end in sight, it is essential to stay focused and determined. I know I cannot let my exhaustion push me into a state of apathy, and neither can you. Tomorrow is a new day that brings us one step closer to the finish line!

Learn more about NUHS’ Doctor of Chiropractic program here.