I am about to conclude an incredibly busy summer! After closing out the second semester of Year 2, I immediately began working as an ophthalmic assistant at Mattax, Neu, Prater Surgery Center in Springfield, MO. I was able to complete about 160 hours of work there in the month was was in Springfield, and I want to be sure to thank Dr. James Mattax, Dr. Leo Neu, and Dr. Thomas Prater (WashU Medical School grad) for such an insightful opportunity to assist in almost every aspect of their practice. It was one of the most intriguing experiences I have had so far, and the insight into the complexities of sight and the human eye was especially compelling.
Additionally, while in Springfield, I was able to lead several Outreach Humanity initiatives with the Springfield Dream Center. The Springfield Dream Center is an official affiliate of the Dream Centers located across the nation in cities such as Los Angeles, St. Louis, Atlanta, and Nashville. The Springfield Dream Center brings help for today and hope for tomorrow to Springfield and the surrounding areas. We supplied basic medical needs and hygiene supplies to the unhoused and underserved population of the community. Thank you to the many volunteers who helped support and staff Outreach Humanity during these critical missions in the community.
Upon returning to St. Louis in mid-June, I began work at the Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes Jewish Hospital and the Washington University Medical School campus. As a patient care volunteer and coordinator, I assist in all aspects of making incoming patients and their families more comfortable and informed about their care and any other aspect that is needed. I have enjoyed the experience at Siteman so well, I am going to continue my service once school begins. Thank you to those at Siteman who have allowed me to have this opportunity!
Lastly, I have also continued my research work at the Warner Laboratory at the Washington University Medical School, and I look forward to working there this upcoming semester. Additionally, I took Physics I and Physics II at WashU, which I enjoyed very much. It was challenging fitting an entire semester of Physics into one month, but I found the time and was able to get an A!
Summer is almost over. I had almost zero downtime during this period, but as always, I will continue to ground myself and align my goals towards providing service and care for others.