This has been another wonderful month at Tulane. Our most
interesting class has been environmental signaling, where Dr. Mielke and others
have been informing us on the issue of lead and other heavy metals in the environment, including the exhaust from automobiles and small aircraft.
Especially concerning is the contaminated water sources throughout the nation. The
contamination comes mainly from the pipes of our water supply, and is almost
unavoidable in our aged infrastructure. Many people unknowingly consume
unhealthy amounts of lead, which can lead to serious long-term health issues,
especially in children. This can easily be avoided by using commercially
available filters or purchasing bottled, filtered water. With this knowledge, we
can go forward and be more aware of this health crisis, be better informed
physicians, and in turn better educate patients about how to live in the
healthiest manner possible. This year, I was fortunate enough to be able to
spend Easter with my family back in Maryland. Seeing them all again was a great
reward for all the hard work over these past months, and has recharged my
energy to continue performing well in school and give back to the community.
With spring in full swing, I have gotten involved in playing volleyball with some
current Tulane medical students, and could not be happier to see what a great
community there is at the medical school. Also, I am excited to possibly
explore the area and go golfing more often. Every springtime, the itch to get
outside and play golf returns, and I am very pleased that the pharmacology
program allows us enough time to pursue hobbies and become more well rounded
individuals.
Total Community Service Hours: 8
