The Comeback Chronicles: Kay's Blogging Return

Hello everyone! How are you all doing? Me? Are you more concerned about how I've been? You say I've been gone too long?

I know, I know.

Would you believe me if I said Physician Assistant school has been taking up most of my time? Five days a week, 8 hours a day, my eyes are glued to a screen - whether it's my laptop or my iPad. In just 4 months, I've already learned about six of the body's systems, from the Centor criteria to how to treat oral candidiasis.

I have just completed Trimester 1 of PA school, and let me tell you, it was tough. I think the hardest part about it was figuring out how to study effectively. Studying for a master's program the same way you've studied for your undergraduate classes won't fly, I'll tell you that. Half of this trimester was me trying to figure out how to study and what works for me. It was tough, but I got through it, and I can only thank God for that!

Here are some things I have learned to help me keep afloat in my PA program:

• Develop study habits. By week 1, I had already started studying for classes and exams. This will definitely help with the stressors of PA school by helping you manage time and studying effectively. Plus, I had to learn different ways of studying, like flashcards, and group studying.

• Stay organized. Please use some type of calendar, agenda, or reminder app when it comes to PA school. There may be 100 things being thrown at you at once, so it is important to make sure you can tackle those things whenever they come.

• Use your resources. In addition to your professor's lectures and slides, use other resources like YouTube, tutoring sessions, and group study to help you understand the material.

• Make sure you take some time for yourself. PA school is like a million different things coming at you. It can all be very stressful. Make sure you do things that make you feel good, whether it's taking a nap, hanging with friends, doing some physical activity or eating.

Also, I won't forget our central theme here at CTRLKAY. Fortunately, in the next trimester I will be taking a Mental Health course and I cannot wait to share some of the things I have learned in that course with you all!

At the start of this trimester, my mental health was a bit shaky, and I developed imposter syndrome, doubting myself constantly. But I was able to overcome it by setting goals, celebrating my wins, and reminding myself why I'm doing all of this.

Lastly, I've been hitting the gym consistently, more than ever before, in fact. It's been my go-to-stress-reliever these past few months. Earlier this year, I set a goal to go to the gym four days a week instead of my usually three, and I'm happy to say that I've reached that goal! With a consistent schedule, I was able to tackle the stressors of PA school and keep up with my gym routine.

I know I can't just leave you guys hanging, so I've attached a photo dump at the bottom for your enjoyment. Talk to you all later!

-Kay