Officially official

So I'm very happy to be officially a full-time employed RD! Just wanted to send out some wishes to all of the newly started dietetic interns in all the programs around the United States. It will be a fun-filled, grueling year, but I've said it before and I've said it again...I can't imagine going into any position without having the experience.


Since my last post, I've been given the title of an "employee" at U of M Mott Children's Hospital. I've spent a lot of time covering the PCTU area (Pediatric Cardio Thoracic Unit) while the usual RD in that area works on some research. It's one of the most difficult and challenging areas but I know it's the area where I most welcome the experience, because it will only help me extend my knowledge. 


I've also spent a lot of time in an area that I didn't spend any time in during the internship - pediatric surgery. A lot of the kids in this area are from MVA's (motor vehicle accidents) and are in the hospital long-term. Another big population in this area are bowel surgeries for Hirschsprung's disease, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, etc. I really like this area, as I feel it somewhat relates to the PICU area and that it requires a lot of nutrition support. The dietitian in this area also helps with the pediatric surgery outpatient clinic.


For my position, if no one is gone, I am general help with the team, especially when the hospital census is so high. What's going to be cool in this position as well is that I may have the opportunity to be a preceptor! For example, if the person I'm supposed to cover that day is also scheduled with an intern - I'd be the one to take over. I find that so weird. I suppose I should get used to it though...


Anywho, in the meantime, I'm officially a resident of Ann Arbor and it's wonderful. I finally have my own space and I must say that it will never be taken for granted after spending a year living in other people's houses and basements. I can decorate if I want, leave my bed messy if I want, turn the music up as loud as I want, and go to bed when I want (with it being quiet). 


For any of those starting internships and weighing the option of commuting or moving to the area, they both have their pros and cons. While I did save a lot of money by commuting and living with family rent-free, I do feel as though I missed out on a lot of opportunities to become closer to other interns and experiencing the local atmosphere (especially that of Ann Arbor). But I underestimate the expenses of the extra time, money, car trouble, and not to mention gas. Remember in one of my first posts how I mentioned I'd spend ~$1500 for gas? HA. That definitely didn't happen. I'd say I spent twice that. But in the end, as far as my bank account, I came out ahead (just a lil, though). 


Making pros and cons lists have become my new favorite thing. Ha.