Wow! Where do I begin? My first semester of pharmacy school was by far more challenging than I would have ever expected. The test were hard. The quizzes were hard. The lectures were long. And would you believe, I loved every single bit of it. Yeah, it was absolutely amazing.
I think I studied--on average--around 3-4 hours a day, and even more on the weekends. Consequently, I know lots about drug chemistry, drug metabolism and the mechanism of action of several drugs. I've even learned tons about diabetes, high blood pressure, patient interviewing, and, how to calculate IV doses.
And as much as I love talking about those things, I would hate to sit here and just ramble on about everything I've learned this semester. Instead, I just want you guys to know that I am going to love being a pharmacist!! I'll recap it in, hopefully, one page or less....
The semester started off with a week long orientation entitled Foundation of Pharmacy. The name is pretty much self-explanatory and should give you all the insight needed to figure out what we learned. But besides all the books, we also did some really fun activities: one of them in particular was the tower building contest. Yeah, you read that correctly. We actually got to build a tower made of marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. It was so fun!! Unfortunately, though, my team didn't win; but we did have lots of fun. We also got to watch a moc-trail, which was absolutely amazing. The lawyers and actors were just so good. Everything seemed so real. I couldn't help but sit there and watch in complete anticipation as the jury rendered their verdict. Would you believe that I was so into the thing that I actually started praying for the defendant--yeah, it was that convincing.
And, then, just like that, orientation week was over and school started--for real!! And let me just say, once it started, things got going in full swing. So much stuff was so happening so fast, if you blinked you were sure to miss something--whether it was an important email, meeting or conference. You had to always be on your toes. Which was, by the way, the first lesson I learned. No one was going to wait on you if you got a behind.
And just to give you an idea as to how quickly things were moving, listen to this: in just five weeks, we covered 17 chapters of drug chemistry. Yeah, I know what you're thinking--seems impossible, right. It was definitely a lot. But believe it or not, that was the easy part. Things soon begin to pick up even more speed. Would you believe by the end of the semester we covered a whopping 45 chapters--in just one class!!! I learned everything from basic drug chemistry to the most complicated drug metabolism.
That course, by the way, is called Drugs and Diseases--or DAD, as we refer to it. And it is insanely difficult. We pretty learn every single drug used to treat every treatable disease. The way it work is simple: over the first four semesters, we take DADs I - IV. After which, we spend the entire third year of school learning how to integrate everything we've learned in a class called Integrated Pharmacotherapy--aka IP. And then we spend our fourth and final year doing clinical rotations. And what's worse, even though we take several other classes, the DAD and IP courses are heavily weighted. So, even if we make A's in our "fluff" classes, DAD or IP can still make or break our GPAs. My point being, DAD is a pretty big deal around here.
Besides school work, though, pharmacy school has been full of other excitement. For starters, I was voted class justice this year, which is pretty much what we call our class president. I won't go into too many details about my elected role, but just know that being class justice has definitely taught me how to manage my time.
Overall, I would say the first semester of pharmacy school has been great, with a few rocky--and even scary--points along the way. The good news is, though, I finished this semester pretty strong--4.0 strong, that is!! And being as such Wende and I are planning on having a great Christmas break. When spring semester starts, I'll be sure to keep all you guys updated.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
My LOOONG Road to Pharmacy School
I didn't always want to be a pharmacist. Back in high school I actually wanted to be a doctor. I started my first year of college as a premed student, majoring in Biology and minoring in both Chemistry and then later on Spanish. It wasn't until the Spring semester of my Junior year that I realized medicine wasn't for me. And by that time I had already taken all my major courses, the MCAT, and was even ready to graduate. Seriously, I finished my college degree in just three years. Taking 18 credit hours most semesters and doing very well, might I add, the idea of going to medical school wasn't that farfetched.
The only problem was...The WOO.
The WOO (World of Opportunity) was a non-profit organization that was built to help high school drop-outs get their GED. My college roommate and I ended up volunteering there one day and it completely changed my life. I feel in love with teaching.
The semester we started volunteering, I was taking Advanced Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry II, Embryology, Statistics, and Intermediate Spanish II. My schedule was packed. The crazy thing, though, was that even though I was swamped with classes, I still found time for the WOO. Come to think of it, I skipped just about every single lecture in Embryology so I could teach my students their GED materials. And by the grace of God I still finished that semester with three A's and two B's--not bad for someone teaching 15-20 hours ever week. It was also then when I realized I didn't care for medicine that much. Looking back, I think I just did it because "that's what smart kids do". They become doctors, right? Eventually, though, I decided to pursue other interests and contemplate whether teaching was really the right thing for me. I ended up spending an extra year and a half in college, mostly traveling around Mexico and learning the language, and eventually decided that teaching was the thing for me. But instead of just teaching at some rich private school, I wanted the rejects--the kids that no one else wanted. I wanted to be like Morgan Freeman in the movie Lean on Me. I wanted inner city kids!!
Unfortunately, though, that didn't work out and I ended up teaching at a local technical college. ESL and GED Prep were my classes. And would you believe, after just 9 months I was completely burnt out. I hated teaching. And just like that I quit.
Back to square one...
I kept in touch with all my premed friends, though, who were all in med school at this point. And they all had the same advice, as they all knew I was contemplating medical school after failing terrible at teaching: "Ju," they'd say, "don't do this unless you really want it, man. Medicine is definitely not a field you want to pursue half-heartedly." And they were right. As much as I needed to find SOMETHING to do with my life, I knew going to medical school as "just something to do" was the worst idea ever. I would have been miserable.
So, instead, I went to nursing school. (That made sense, right?)
Back then--at least to me--the decision made sense. I figured nurses got do lots of cool medical stuff and I could be do done fairly quickly. Hey, I had all of my prerequisites and could be done in just two years. (I was completely ignorant and deluded myself into believing I had made right decision.) I actually liked the idea of being a nurse; that was until I actually started doing student clinicals and had to wipe a patient's butt for the first time. I almost threw-up. I was like, if this is what nurses have to do, I am out of here. And after just two semester, I quite.
So, back to the drawing board, again.
This time I really had to think. I wasn't getting any younger and all of my college friends were well on their ways. My problem was, I just couldn't figure out what I wanted to do. Although, I knew I liked healthcare, I couldn't really see myself being anything other than a doctor if I was going to pursue anything in that field. But every time I tried to convince myself that medicine was my thing, reality would hit me right in the face. And as I grew, I learned that more and more. I just didn't want to be a doctor.
I quickly learned that several students go down paths that they ultimately end up hating; and a lot of it could have been avoided had they simply dug a little deeper and really learned about the career. I didn't want to make that mistake, especially with a career path that pretty much sucks you in with their $40,000 a year cost. I kept thinking I would hate to take out that much money in loans and then quit.
By this point I was 24 years old, jobless and just sitting on my 3.78 GPA and decent MCAT score. After months and months of thinking, I decided to enroll in graduate school. I knew I liked research and I also figured being a professor of Molecular and Cell Biology would allow me to put my outstanding teaching skills to use. Not to mention, instead of dealing with high school drop-outs, who quite frankly, couldn't appreciate what I had offer, I would be able to teach professional students. And to top it all off, your tuition is fully covered, you get insurance, and biweekly stipend. The deal seemed pretty sweet to me.
So just like that, the next Fall I was in graduate school.
It was also during this time when I started to reconnect with my old friend Mr. Polk. Mr. Polk is a pharmacist and has been doing it for over 30 years. We went to lunch one day and talked for hours and ended up discussing my career path. After hearing my story, he asked if I ever thought about pharmacy. Obviously, I hadn't. I always thought pharmacist were just a bunch of old pill-pushers, whose job seemed insanely mundane. I said something like, "If I'm honest, I want something a little more challenging." After I said it, I knew I had just put my foot in my mouth, but by that point there wasn't much I could do to fix it. But with Mr. Polk being the good man he is, instead of attacking or making me eat my words, he simply invited me to watch him work.
I went. And, if I'm honest, I wasn't sold during that visit. It wasn't until I learned about clinical pharmacist that the pharmacy profession started to peak my interest. So, while I was in grad school, reading about lysosomal degradation and ubiquination, I was also started researching the pharmacy profession. After just three months of constant digging and asking and volunteering and speaking to any pharmacy student I could get my hands on, I realized I was officially intrigued. Actually, I realized I wanted to do it. I loved their school and the classes they took. And I also remember that Pharmacology and Pathophysiology were the only two classes I liked in Nursing School. And so I started figuring out how to get in.
I was very fortunate in that I had all of my prerequisites completed, so I didn't have to take anymore classes. The only thing I had to do was take the PCAT. And while I wasn't too worried about the PCAT, I still wanted to study for it. My problem was, graduate school took up a lot of my time, especially that first year when you're taking nothing but classes. I was reading papers every night. The last thing I had time for was studying for the PCAT. So the day before the test, I bought a little PCAT prep book from Barnes-&-Nobles and read as much I could. The next day I was in Birmingham taking my test. If I'm honest, it wasn't even that hard. I ended up scoring in the 85th percentile. I applied to one school: Harrison School of Pharmacy (HSOP) at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama. (They're actually a really good school, too. They're ranked 24th in the nation, which I didn't know when I applied.) I sent my scores and application in and within two weeks I received an email from the HSOP inviting me to an interview. Wende and I both went and the next day I was accepted. I was a great day and, quite frankly, it felt like I had finally chosen the right thing. For the first time in my life I was actually looking forward to something; instead of the usual, just doing something to pass the time.
My road to pharmacy school is definitely not the typical one but I certainly think taking the route I did has made a stronger and better person. I've learned so much about myself throughout the years. I know what I like and what I don't. I know who I am and what I want. And believe me when I tell you, I want to be a pharmacist. I'm 26 years old and this Fall I will be a first years pharmacy student at The Harrison School of Pharmacy at Auburn University. I look forward to the next four years and can't wait to one day call myself a Pharmacist.
The only problem was...The WOO.
The WOO (World of Opportunity) was a non-profit organization that was built to help high school drop-outs get their GED. My college roommate and I ended up volunteering there one day and it completely changed my life. I feel in love with teaching.
The semester we started volunteering, I was taking Advanced Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry II, Embryology, Statistics, and Intermediate Spanish II. My schedule was packed. The crazy thing, though, was that even though I was swamped with classes, I still found time for the WOO. Come to think of it, I skipped just about every single lecture in Embryology so I could teach my students their GED materials. And by the grace of God I still finished that semester with three A's and two B's--not bad for someone teaching 15-20 hours ever week. It was also then when I realized I didn't care for medicine that much. Looking back, I think I just did it because "that's what smart kids do". They become doctors, right? Eventually, though, I decided to pursue other interests and contemplate whether teaching was really the right thing for me. I ended up spending an extra year and a half in college, mostly traveling around Mexico and learning the language, and eventually decided that teaching was the thing for me. But instead of just teaching at some rich private school, I wanted the rejects--the kids that no one else wanted. I wanted to be like Morgan Freeman in the movie Lean on Me. I wanted inner city kids!!
Unfortunately, though, that didn't work out and I ended up teaching at a local technical college. ESL and GED Prep were my classes. And would you believe, after just 9 months I was completely burnt out. I hated teaching. And just like that I quit.
Back to square one...
I kept in touch with all my premed friends, though, who were all in med school at this point. And they all had the same advice, as they all knew I was contemplating medical school after failing terrible at teaching: "Ju," they'd say, "don't do this unless you really want it, man. Medicine is definitely not a field you want to pursue half-heartedly." And they were right. As much as I needed to find SOMETHING to do with my life, I knew going to medical school as "just something to do" was the worst idea ever. I would have been miserable.
So, instead, I went to nursing school. (That made sense, right?)
Back then--at least to me--the decision made sense. I figured nurses got do lots of cool medical stuff and I could be do done fairly quickly. Hey, I had all of my prerequisites and could be done in just two years. (I was completely ignorant and deluded myself into believing I had made right decision.) I actually liked the idea of being a nurse; that was until I actually started doing student clinicals and had to wipe a patient's butt for the first time. I almost threw-up. I was like, if this is what nurses have to do, I am out of here. And after just two semester, I quite.
So, back to the drawing board, again.
This time I really had to think. I wasn't getting any younger and all of my college friends were well on their ways. My problem was, I just couldn't figure out what I wanted to do. Although, I knew I liked healthcare, I couldn't really see myself being anything other than a doctor if I was going to pursue anything in that field. But every time I tried to convince myself that medicine was my thing, reality would hit me right in the face. And as I grew, I learned that more and more. I just didn't want to be a doctor.
I quickly learned that several students go down paths that they ultimately end up hating; and a lot of it could have been avoided had they simply dug a little deeper and really learned about the career. I didn't want to make that mistake, especially with a career path that pretty much sucks you in with their $40,000 a year cost. I kept thinking I would hate to take out that much money in loans and then quit.
By this point I was 24 years old, jobless and just sitting on my 3.78 GPA and decent MCAT score. After months and months of thinking, I decided to enroll in graduate school. I knew I liked research and I also figured being a professor of Molecular and Cell Biology would allow me to put my outstanding teaching skills to use. Not to mention, instead of dealing with high school drop-outs, who quite frankly, couldn't appreciate what I had offer, I would be able to teach professional students. And to top it all off, your tuition is fully covered, you get insurance, and biweekly stipend. The deal seemed pretty sweet to me.
So just like that, the next Fall I was in graduate school.
It was also during this time when I started to reconnect with my old friend Mr. Polk. Mr. Polk is a pharmacist and has been doing it for over 30 years. We went to lunch one day and talked for hours and ended up discussing my career path. After hearing my story, he asked if I ever thought about pharmacy. Obviously, I hadn't. I always thought pharmacist were just a bunch of old pill-pushers, whose job seemed insanely mundane. I said something like, "If I'm honest, I want something a little more challenging." After I said it, I knew I had just put my foot in my mouth, but by that point there wasn't much I could do to fix it. But with Mr. Polk being the good man he is, instead of attacking or making me eat my words, he simply invited me to watch him work.
I went. And, if I'm honest, I wasn't sold during that visit. It wasn't until I learned about clinical pharmacist that the pharmacy profession started to peak my interest. So, while I was in grad school, reading about lysosomal degradation and ubiquination, I was also started researching the pharmacy profession. After just three months of constant digging and asking and volunteering and speaking to any pharmacy student I could get my hands on, I realized I was officially intrigued. Actually, I realized I wanted to do it. I loved their school and the classes they took. And I also remember that Pharmacology and Pathophysiology were the only two classes I liked in Nursing School. And so I started figuring out how to get in.
I was very fortunate in that I had all of my prerequisites completed, so I didn't have to take anymore classes. The only thing I had to do was take the PCAT. And while I wasn't too worried about the PCAT, I still wanted to study for it. My problem was, graduate school took up a lot of my time, especially that first year when you're taking nothing but classes. I was reading papers every night. The last thing I had time for was studying for the PCAT. So the day before the test, I bought a little PCAT prep book from Barnes-&-Nobles and read as much I could. The next day I was in Birmingham taking my test. If I'm honest, it wasn't even that hard. I ended up scoring in the 85th percentile. I applied to one school: Harrison School of Pharmacy (HSOP) at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama. (They're actually a really good school, too. They're ranked 24th in the nation, which I didn't know when I applied.) I sent my scores and application in and within two weeks I received an email from the HSOP inviting me to an interview. Wende and I both went and the next day I was accepted. I was a great day and, quite frankly, it felt like I had finally chosen the right thing. For the first time in my life I was actually looking forward to something; instead of the usual, just doing something to pass the time.
My road to pharmacy school is definitely not the typical one but I certainly think taking the route I did has made a stronger and better person. I've learned so much about myself throughout the years. I know what I like and what I don't. I know who I am and what I want. And believe me when I tell you, I want to be a pharmacist. I'm 26 years old and this Fall I will be a first years pharmacy student at The Harrison School of Pharmacy at Auburn University. I look forward to the next four years and can't wait to one day call myself a Pharmacist.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
La Hacienda
There's this Mexican restaurant right down the street from my girlfriend's house. The food there is great and the service isn't too bad, either. Every time I go, though, I feel a little bad because most of the waiters can't understand a single word we're saying. Their English is terrible. Now this isn't too much of an issue when I'm there, since I just so happen to speak Spanish. But what makes me feel a little uneasy is when my non-Spanish speaking friends decide we should all go. They have absolutely no sympathy for these guys.
(And they wonder why their orders keep getting messed up.)
Wende and I just went there last night, actually. And the waiter is so nice. He and I were talking and, apparently he hates it when a bunch of people come in, get drunk, and completely lose all politeness. Now I understand we're in America and that they should learn the language; but come on, people, cut these guys some slack. It's not easy learning another language, especially English. Needlesstosay, a bunch things get lost in translation.
A group of us are going tonight. And while I love the food and can't wait to eat some nachos, I feel terrible for the waiters. Dealing with a bunch of mid-twenties, white people who seem to think the best way to handle someone who doesn't speak the language is by speaking louder is going to make for an interesting night.
Here goes nothing.
(And they wonder why their orders keep getting messed up.)
Wende and I just went there last night, actually. And the waiter is so nice. He and I were talking and, apparently he hates it when a bunch of people come in, get drunk, and completely lose all politeness. Now I understand we're in America and that they should learn the language; but come on, people, cut these guys some slack. It's not easy learning another language, especially English. Needlesstosay, a bunch things get lost in translation.
A group of us are going tonight. And while I love the food and can't wait to eat some nachos, I feel terrible for the waiters. Dealing with a bunch of mid-twenties, white people who seem to think the best way to handle someone who doesn't speak the language is by speaking louder is going to make for an interesting night.
Here goes nothing.
I'm just not sure what to do with myself.
I've been in school just about my entire life. For the past 26 years now, I've always had something to do--whether it be writing a paper, learning a language, studying for a test, I've always had SOMETHING to do. And I'm just now realizing how much my being a student has kept me sane. The more I sit and wait for pharmacy school, the more anxious and ready I am to start. And I don't think it has much to do with the career apsect, either; I think I just want something productive to do with my time. Fact is, I'm not very good at just do nothing. It kills me, actually. I've never understood those people who could sit at home all day and just watch TV or talk on the phone. I'd much rather be doing something, anything for that matter. I feel like I'm going crazy.
Now a lot of this could have to do with the fact that I'm staying at friend's house, which wouldn't be a problem if he didn't live in Tennessee (I'm from Alabama). (And I guess now you're wondering why I'm here. Well, Wende lives here and, fact is, it's a lot more economical for me to stay here than for her to stay in Alabama.) But I think being here somehow makes me feel inhibited or limited or stuck. I don't know anybody up here, except Wende and her family, and I don't have my books, laptop or any of my stuff with me. Some days, if I'm honest, just feel like a waste of time. Now don't get me wrong, I love spending time with Wende; and if I could get away with spending every minute with her, I'd be more than content. But let's be real here, that ain't going to happen and even if it could we'd eventually drive each other nuts.
What's more, it seems like these two months are moving by quickly but slowly at the same time. It's like part of me is shocked that June is already here but, at the same time, thinking why isn't it July yet. Like I said earlier, I've never been good at just doing nothing. I need something to read, write about, learn, discover...something!! I think my being a health freak is probably a result of this as well. (And you know what, the more I think about it, the more I'm starting to realize the term "health freak" isn't necessarily the right way to describe me. I think "exercise freak" or "action-junky" may be the more appropriate term. But I'll talk more about that later.) Unlike Wende, I love to do anything physical and being outdoors. Matter of fact, I'll even go as far as saying I NEED to do something physical. I feel so anxious and full of pent-up energy when I'm just sitting. Do you think this is some form of ADHD? I don't think it is. After all, I've been a GREAT student my entire life. I can study for hours if need be. But, at the same time, unless I'm studying I have a tough time just sitting still for prolonged periods of time, which is why I'm so ready for pharmacy school to start. I'm honestly hoping it's just as hard as everyone says it is, so I can fill most of my day up with drugs and diseases. Fact is, I know that'll satisfy my insatiable need to stay busy. I've got it all planned out, too: workout in the morning--early in the morning--followed by class for most of the day, a quick nap after that, and then studying for about two to three hours. With a schedule like that I know I'll be content. And then by the time I get to Wende, I won't drive her crazy with my sometimes unrealistic needs--i.e. doing something wild and crazy like going streaking at 3 am (we've never done that--yet--but it's definitely not something totally out of character for me).
My whole point is just to say, I'm not sure what to do with myself. I have all this free time and, quick frankly, it's driving me insane. If there's anyone out there like me, hey, feel free to leave a comment. I'd love to hear how fellow action-junkies deal with their need to constantly be on the move.
Now a lot of this could have to do with the fact that I'm staying at friend's house, which wouldn't be a problem if he didn't live in Tennessee (I'm from Alabama). (And I guess now you're wondering why I'm here. Well, Wende lives here and, fact is, it's a lot more economical for me to stay here than for her to stay in Alabama.) But I think being here somehow makes me feel inhibited or limited or stuck. I don't know anybody up here, except Wende and her family, and I don't have my books, laptop or any of my stuff with me. Some days, if I'm honest, just feel like a waste of time. Now don't get me wrong, I love spending time with Wende; and if I could get away with spending every minute with her, I'd be more than content. But let's be real here, that ain't going to happen and even if it could we'd eventually drive each other nuts.
What's more, it seems like these two months are moving by quickly but slowly at the same time. It's like part of me is shocked that June is already here but, at the same time, thinking why isn't it July yet. Like I said earlier, I've never been good at just doing nothing. I need something to read, write about, learn, discover...something!! I think my being a health freak is probably a result of this as well. (And you know what, the more I think about it, the more I'm starting to realize the term "health freak" isn't necessarily the right way to describe me. I think "exercise freak" or "action-junky" may be the more appropriate term. But I'll talk more about that later.) Unlike Wende, I love to do anything physical and being outdoors. Matter of fact, I'll even go as far as saying I NEED to do something physical. I feel so anxious and full of pent-up energy when I'm just sitting. Do you think this is some form of ADHD? I don't think it is. After all, I've been a GREAT student my entire life. I can study for hours if need be. But, at the same time, unless I'm studying I have a tough time just sitting still for prolonged periods of time, which is why I'm so ready for pharmacy school to start. I'm honestly hoping it's just as hard as everyone says it is, so I can fill most of my day up with drugs and diseases. Fact is, I know that'll satisfy my insatiable need to stay busy. I've got it all planned out, too: workout in the morning--early in the morning--followed by class for most of the day, a quick nap after that, and then studying for about two to three hours. With a schedule like that I know I'll be content. And then by the time I get to Wende, I won't drive her crazy with my sometimes unrealistic needs--i.e. doing something wild and crazy like going streaking at 3 am (we've never done that--yet--but it's definitely not something totally out of character for me).
My whole point is just to say, I'm not sure what to do with myself. I have all this free time and, quick frankly, it's driving me insane. If there's anyone out there like me, hey, feel free to leave a comment. I'd love to hear how fellow action-junkies deal with their need to constantly be on the move.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Apartment Hunting Sucks!
So, I've been apartment hunting for the past several weeks now. It's been quite the experience, especially considering I haven't even been to Auburn since my interview (Auburn is where my pharmacy school is). Which means my apartment hunting mostly consists of me sitting my in front of my computer.
I'm looking for a one bed-room, one bath with a descent sized kitchen and living area. That's it. I don't need anything too fancy. I also don't want a dump, either, which makes this process even more difficult. How in the world do I know what's good and what's not when I can't even see the darn place. Well, don't get me wrong, some places are obviously nice--problem is they cost more money than I'm willing the put out. Better yet, they cost more than I have. With my price range being between $400 to $650 a month, it seems the only places available are either pretty run down or pretty far from campus. All the nice, close apartments are taken. What's more, I'm having to find a place for both me and Wende, and believe you me, that makes the whole process that much more difficult. For starters, I can't just find a roommate like many of the other first years (P1's). Most of them are roomming with upper classmen who've already gotten a place. I have to start from scratch. And it sucks. I don't know anyone down there and it's a freakin' three hour drive from my house, which means I can't just drive to Auburn and look around.
Originally, we were going to stay in a townhouse within walking distance of campus. Problem was, the place was way too expensive. $780 a month. And even though it was fully furnished and the total price included cable, Internet, washer and dryer, and an electricity packet for an additional $85 a month, that just seems steep to me, especially when I'm reading about classmates who only paying $500 a month--for all the same perks, except the for the funiture part. Now granted, they may not be as close to campus; but even when you consider the gas difference, Wende and I still come out paying more. What this really comes down to is that it's cheaper to live with roommates. The more you have the less you ultimately end up paying.
Another issue is, Wende is currently unemployed. Now this isn't that big of a deal yet but it could definitely be one if we were going to stay in that townhouse. Seriously, the school only gives me a small allowance and, trust me, living in an $885 a month apartment really puts a strain on our budget. But, then again, if she worked--even if at just a Wal-Mart--it would help out tremendously. Mostly, we'd just need money for food. Everything else would be covered. We wouldn't have much to "play" with, so we should probably say good bye to those fun Friday nights at the bar, but I think we'd live. As long as I can get a six pack from time to time, it should be no problem.
Mostly, though, I'm just a little worried I won't find a nice place in time. I feel like I have so much to get done and not very much time to do it--and not to mention all the things I have to buy, especially if we don't get the furnished apartment. Oh, and did I mention that because I'm a student the apartment office requires us to have a parent sponsor. This may seem like an easy fix to most but neither of us have parents with the best credit. Yeah, as you can see things are pretty intense right about now but I'm going to try not to let them get to me. I'm going to get through these two months and before you know it, I'll be telling you guys all about my first day of orientation.
I'm looking for a one bed-room, one bath with a descent sized kitchen and living area. That's it. I don't need anything too fancy. I also don't want a dump, either, which makes this process even more difficult. How in the world do I know what's good and what's not when I can't even see the darn place. Well, don't get me wrong, some places are obviously nice--problem is they cost more money than I'm willing the put out. Better yet, they cost more than I have. With my price range being between $400 to $650 a month, it seems the only places available are either pretty run down or pretty far from campus. All the nice, close apartments are taken. What's more, I'm having to find a place for both me and Wende, and believe you me, that makes the whole process that much more difficult. For starters, I can't just find a roommate like many of the other first years (P1's). Most of them are roomming with upper classmen who've already gotten a place. I have to start from scratch. And it sucks. I don't know anyone down there and it's a freakin' three hour drive from my house, which means I can't just drive to Auburn and look around.
Originally, we were going to stay in a townhouse within walking distance of campus. Problem was, the place was way too expensive. $780 a month. And even though it was fully furnished and the total price included cable, Internet, washer and dryer, and an electricity packet for an additional $85 a month, that just seems steep to me, especially when I'm reading about classmates who only paying $500 a month--for all the same perks, except the for the funiture part. Now granted, they may not be as close to campus; but even when you consider the gas difference, Wende and I still come out paying more. What this really comes down to is that it's cheaper to live with roommates. The more you have the less you ultimately end up paying.
Another issue is, Wende is currently unemployed. Now this isn't that big of a deal yet but it could definitely be one if we were going to stay in that townhouse. Seriously, the school only gives me a small allowance and, trust me, living in an $885 a month apartment really puts a strain on our budget. But, then again, if she worked--even if at just a Wal-Mart--it would help out tremendously. Mostly, we'd just need money for food. Everything else would be covered. We wouldn't have much to "play" with, so we should probably say good bye to those fun Friday nights at the bar, but I think we'd live. As long as I can get a six pack from time to time, it should be no problem.
Mostly, though, I'm just a little worried I won't find a nice place in time. I feel like I have so much to get done and not very much time to do it--and not to mention all the things I have to buy, especially if we don't get the furnished apartment. Oh, and did I mention that because I'm a student the apartment office requires us to have a parent sponsor. This may seem like an easy fix to most but neither of us have parents with the best credit. Yeah, as you can see things are pretty intense right about now but I'm going to try not to let them get to me. I'm going to get through these two months and before you know it, I'll be telling you guys all about my first day of orientation.
Friday, June 3, 2011
The Therapist was Amazing!!
So yesterday I told you guys about me and Wende seeing a pre-marriage counselor. Well, today we went and it was absolutely amazing. This guy was good. In just an hour and a half, Wende and I learned so much about ourselves and how we communicate (which, quite frankly, is something all couples should learn about each other). But don't get me wrong here, there was never a doubt in my mind that Wende was the woman for me, but after visiting with Chuck, I'm beyond ready to marry this woman. Heck, I could marry her tomorrow!!
The session started off with us basically talking about some of our concerns. I gave him mine and Wende gave him hers. And immediately after hearing us out, Chuck identified some areas that inevitably lead to conflict, especially when couples haven't learned effective means of communicating. I learned that Wende and I are so very different. Well, then again, I always knew we were different; I just didn't know how different. For example, I'm much more of a quick, to the point, kind of a guy. Wende, on the other hand, is a little slower and often needs time to reflect and think. And would you believe, just this minor difference has caused a butt-load of unnecessary bickering. And it should be noted that usually this difference isn't that big of a deal. The problem comes in when there is a dispute. It's that small difference in communication style that often leads to bickering or nagging or arguing. I was absolutely blown away when Chuck pointed this out. It was like my eyes were opened for the first time and I was finally seeing the light. For the first time I was finally seeing where Wende was coming from. And, quite frankly, I was ready to learn more.
He went on to talk about ways to resolve our conflict without the usual finger pointing, belittling, or hitting below the belt (which rarely occurs, actually. A lot of what went on today was used for preemptive measures.)
This guy was so good, matter of fact, he was also able to pin-point a lot of things we didn't even mention--mostly just from hearing our stories. He would say things like, "Ju, I bet you do this when you're mad" or "Wende, I'm willing to bet that you have a tendency to do this when he does that." The guy was dead on.
And to top it all off, when our session was finally over, Chuck even reduced his rate and offered us a free session once we're married. So instead of paying $136.00 a session, we're only paying $75.00. Did I mention I really liked this guy? Wende and I ended up leaving his office like a brand-new couple. I think we're happier than we've ever been. Like I said earlier, she and I have always considered ourselves a good couple; however, I think this therapy session--and the five more that follow--are going to make us even better. We're both slowly but surely learning how to grow as unit. And I think as long as we remember we're striving to be a team and learn to work together, we're going to be amazing.
The session started off with us basically talking about some of our concerns. I gave him mine and Wende gave him hers. And immediately after hearing us out, Chuck identified some areas that inevitably lead to conflict, especially when couples haven't learned effective means of communicating. I learned that Wende and I are so very different. Well, then again, I always knew we were different; I just didn't know how different. For example, I'm much more of a quick, to the point, kind of a guy. Wende, on the other hand, is a little slower and often needs time to reflect and think. And would you believe, just this minor difference has caused a butt-load of unnecessary bickering. And it should be noted that usually this difference isn't that big of a deal. The problem comes in when there is a dispute. It's that small difference in communication style that often leads to bickering or nagging or arguing. I was absolutely blown away when Chuck pointed this out. It was like my eyes were opened for the first time and I was finally seeing the light. For the first time I was finally seeing where Wende was coming from. And, quite frankly, I was ready to learn more.
He went on to talk about ways to resolve our conflict without the usual finger pointing, belittling, or hitting below the belt (which rarely occurs, actually. A lot of what went on today was used for preemptive measures.)
This guy was so good, matter of fact, he was also able to pin-point a lot of things we didn't even mention--mostly just from hearing our stories. He would say things like, "Ju, I bet you do this when you're mad" or "Wende, I'm willing to bet that you have a tendency to do this when he does that." The guy was dead on.
And to top it all off, when our session was finally over, Chuck even reduced his rate and offered us a free session once we're married. So instead of paying $136.00 a session, we're only paying $75.00. Did I mention I really liked this guy? Wende and I ended up leaving his office like a brand-new couple. I think we're happier than we've ever been. Like I said earlier, she and I have always considered ourselves a good couple; however, I think this therapy session--and the five more that follow--are going to make us even better. We're both slowly but surely learning how to grow as unit. And I think as long as we remember we're striving to be a team and learn to work together, we're going to be amazing.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
We're seeing a Therapist
So, Wende and I are seeing a pre-marriage counselor tomorrow. And I have to admit, at first, the idea seemed dumb; but the more I think about it, the more I feel like this is for the best. While Wende and I definitely have an amazing relationship, there are still a few kinks that need to be worked out before we say I do.
You see, our biggest problem stems from hurtful and misguided things that were said and done in past. And while, for the most part, we've tried our best to reconcile those issues, they have way of popping back up occasionally. And being as such, we decided pre-marriage counseling was our best bet, especially since we plan on getting married this July. The last thing we need is to bring unfinished, unresolved business into a new and happy marriage. Her parents are all for it. And, like I said earlier, I wasn't too gung-ho originally but now I think it's definitely the best option.
I've never met the guy we're going see but he is a Christian counselor, which is very important to both of us; and from what I can tell he seems pretty qualified. He and I spoke over the phone this morning and, quite frankly, I was very impressed with his candor and advise. He seemed to know what he was talking about, which, I guess, is to be expected. After all, the guy is an "expert". But, then again, these days you can't be too careful. Some of these idiots out there think they've got all the answers, and, unfortunately, don't know diddly-squat.
Our appointment is tomorrow afternoon at 2:30. And while I'm looking forward to our little meeting, I'm not looking forward to paying this guy. You'd think with him being a Christian counselor and all he wouldn't charge an arm and leg. One hour with this guy is a whopping $136.00. Yeah, you read that correctly. For one stinking hour!! I've decided we better handle every single issue we've ever had during this visit, because Lord knows I'm not trying to shell out that much cash on a regular basis. I'm still a student for goodness sakes. And, of course, I say this now but I can almost assure you I'll probably end up writing about how awesome our meeting went and how I can't wait to go back. I'm trying my best not to go into this thing with unrealistic expectations, but, at the same time, I'm really optimistic about the outcome.
Here goes nothing...
You see, our biggest problem stems from hurtful and misguided things that were said and done in past. And while, for the most part, we've tried our best to reconcile those issues, they have way of popping back up occasionally. And being as such, we decided pre-marriage counseling was our best bet, especially since we plan on getting married this July. The last thing we need is to bring unfinished, unresolved business into a new and happy marriage. Her parents are all for it. And, like I said earlier, I wasn't too gung-ho originally but now I think it's definitely the best option.
I've never met the guy we're going see but he is a Christian counselor, which is very important to both of us; and from what I can tell he seems pretty qualified. He and I spoke over the phone this morning and, quite frankly, I was very impressed with his candor and advise. He seemed to know what he was talking about, which, I guess, is to be expected. After all, the guy is an "expert". But, then again, these days you can't be too careful. Some of these idiots out there think they've got all the answers, and, unfortunately, don't know diddly-squat.
Our appointment is tomorrow afternoon at 2:30. And while I'm looking forward to our little meeting, I'm not looking forward to paying this guy. You'd think with him being a Christian counselor and all he wouldn't charge an arm and leg. One hour with this guy is a whopping $136.00. Yeah, you read that correctly. For one stinking hour!! I've decided we better handle every single issue we've ever had during this visit, because Lord knows I'm not trying to shell out that much cash on a regular basis. I'm still a student for goodness sakes. And, of course, I say this now but I can almost assure you I'll probably end up writing about how awesome our meeting went and how I can't wait to go back. I'm trying my best not to go into this thing with unrealistic expectations, but, at the same time, I'm really optimistic about the outcome.
Here goes nothing...
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