What I learned from trying yoga for the first time

Yoga poseFor me, ASDA’s Wellness Initiative came at a perfect time. The introduction of Wellness Challenges happened to coincided with my newfound desire to take better care of myself by eating well and exercising more regularly. I wanted to be as healthy as I could so that I could set a good example for my patients as a dentist.

The June Wellness Challenge encouraged participants to “take on a new physical challenge,” and the opportunity presented itself when I was invited to join two friends for a yoga class. I had always been interested in trying out yoga, so I excitedly joined them for the class, borrowed mat in hand.

4 things (about money) they don't teach you in dental school | Mouthing Off | Blog of the American Student Dental Association

4 things (about money) they don’t teach you in dental school

money-monday-imageWhen I meet with dental students and residents at several different schools and programs, one of the things I hear most is that finance and tax are things that “they don’t teach us in dental school.” Today, I thought we would look at some of the things that they don’t teach you in dental school, but will be just as important as your degree once you finish…

What I learned from my first dental emergency

A hospital emergency bay area with a huge red signageThe start of my third year of dental school also marked the start of our transition into clinic. My first rotation was in Emergency Care and despite the fact that I had no previous experience seeing patients up until that point, I felt confident. Assisting and observing my classmates in preparation for my rotation only confirmed this self-assurance. All I had to do was take the patient’s medical history and perhaps arrange for an oral surgery consult. It all seemed simple enough.

Seeing your first patient, especially as an emergency case, is an exciting milestone that can quickly turn into an emotional and stressful experience.

Tips on finding that perfect study spot

study spotAs students, we often find ourselves spending our time between one of three places: the clinic, the classroom and the library. Unlike college, “social studying” with friends is no longer a viable option. As much as I miss spending hours sitting on the quad pretending to reading “Introduction to American Literature” while actually talking with my friends about our plans for the weekend, the rigor of dental school demands different study habits. Now that the focus is on efficiency and time management, how can we find new ways to study and stay focused?