The Republic of Texas, Flat Tires, and Other Medical School Adventures

So, it’s Brett this week. I’ll be honest – it took some convincing to be writing on a blog. Don’t you have to be a middle aged, stay at home super-mom to write on these? Anyways, since there have been some questions on the medical school extravaganza, and I’m awful at keeping a journal (which this can double up as) here goes nothing. 

A couple weeks ago I was in San Antonio for an interview. I got there about a day and half early and was able to stay with Caryn’s brother and his family and take some extra time to see the sights. Because I was worried that they wouldn't accept me at Texas medical schools unless I’d seen the Alamo, I figured I better stop by. Everyone told me to have low expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed reading about the history – although I do nerd out about that kind of stuff. The entire downtown (especially the River Walk) was beautiful. That being said, I didn't realize that there was a Comic-Con going on at the same time, and I was confused as to why the majority of people I saw downtown were dressed up as either superheroes or zombies. Also, I was probably 1 of the 5 white people in the entire area - which isn't a bad thing, but it was unique. I also felt a bit awkward being around hundreds of Mexicans at the Alamo.....I guess time heals all wounds?

Remember the Alamo! Remember Goliad!

I absolutely loved the medical school at San Antonio, and overall it was my favorite school I’ve interviewed at. The curriculum, faculty, and general vibe I got from the students felt like a great match for what I was looking for. Plus, I really enjoyed the city. It’s not as nice as Houston or Dallas, but there are actually hills, and it doesn't have the “big city” feel, which coming from the metropolis of Cardston, is a relief. The only downside is that I’d have to frequently associate with San Antonio Spurs fans, but we’ll make it work if we have to.

After flying back from San Antonio, I had about 2 days to try and cram school in for the week and then was off to Milwaukee. Unfortunately, we got a flat tire on the freeway at 6 AM and by time we got the spare on and figured out what to do, I had to change my flight to a later one. Trying to change your tire on the side of the freeway in the dark is not an experience I’d like to repeat. It also goes to prove that Utah Highway Patrol only shows up when you don’t want them to. So instead of being in Milwaukee at 10:30 in the morning, I bought new front tires, went to my classes, and then got there at 10:30 at night. I have a friend going to the medical school , so I was able to stay with him and his wife, and he showed me around the school in the morning. The interview day went well, and even though one of my interviews was with a terrifying Ukrainian doctor that interrogated me, it was a great experience. The facilities are absolutely beautiful, and they have put a ton of money into the school, and it’s probably the nicest one I've interviewed at.  I was really excited to get an acceptance here, and we would be happy to go here if that’s how things worked out.

Medical College of Wisconsin

In the long run, who knows what will happen. Between the Texas schools, as well as the ones in Alberta (Calgary and Edmonton) we still don’t know our long term plans. I’m on the wait-list for the school in Dallas, and A&M hasn't decided on me yet, and I don’t think I’ll hear from them or San Antonio until early next year. However, even though where we are going to medical school is still uncertain, we are extremely lucky to know that we’re going somewhere!