It’s Week Two and the trimester is already in full swing. I decided to work 3 days a week instead of four because last trimester I found myself overwhelmed at times. Being on the fast track, I am taking 26 credits this trimester. With the added time for studying, this program is like working a full time job. As I have mentioned many times in my previous blogs, this program is very rigorous and requires a lot of effort.

Next week I have two quizzes, one in Nutritional Biochemistry and one in Systems Pathology. Along with required reading and general review of class material, I am already figuring out a study schedule. Chiropractic is unique in my opinion because we are not only studying to be able to differentiate and diagnose disease, but also develop the proper manipulation technique, which requires practice. As chiropractic students, we train both our bodies and our minds.

In lumbar manipulation class, Dr. Arick was demonstrating the biomechanics of lumbar spine motion and manipulation. He demonstrated how to palpate and manipulate while explaining what is happening using a model of a spine — a perfect example of training both our bodies and minds.

I attended open adjusting lab on Friday to work on my technique and practice the new adjustments we have learned. There was a huge turnout and I was able to help show the first trimester students a few things to help them get started. This program requires a lot because we need to take time out of our study schedule to work on our technique. It just results in an even fuller schedule.

Thankfully, the weather was nice all week! Late September in Florida feels like July in New Jersey. It has been in the 80s all week and as you may imagine, I took advantage of the nice weather over the weekend. I went to the beach with a few friends and afterwards we hung out by the pool with a few friends from National. I have devoted time to study and time to practice; this trimester I am off to a good start.