CLIMBING UPHILL

9/29-10/5

Last week was monumental to my success as I continue on my ISM journey. After thorough research and several weeks of pondering, I was finally able to decide how I want to utilize the knowledge I gain from research assessments, interviews with professionals, and a mentor in the near future. This week, I completed my original work proposal detailing the steps I will need to take to successfully accomplish my goals. I have decided to create a comprehensive guide for patients that includes information about Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). This will serve as an easily accessible resource to educate people about the science behind AD, steps for prevention, symptoms, and underlying genetic factors. While composing my proposal, I learned about the additional knowledge I will need to gain from rigorous research. I will be filling in the gaps I have by garnering my research assessment this week and others in the future to specific topics that will provide me with necessary information for my original work. 

Additionally, I was very victorious last week in my ability to secure an interview. My first interview is scheduled for this Wednesday! I heard back from Malabendu Jana, an assistant professor in the neurological science department at Rush University Medical Center. I am very excited to speak with a professional neuroscientist and assistant professor and learn about his journey and experience. 

This week is a busy one, but I am glad that things are looking up for me. My primary focus for this week is getting ready for the business symposium on Friday. I will need to make sure that I do not let my nerves get the best of me. Although it will be a learning opportunity, I will need to make sure to put my best foot forward by having my professional outfit, resume, list of questions, and other materials ready ahead of time. I will also spend time this week focusing on diving deep into neuropsychiatric examinations for my research assessment. This is a topic that I will need to obtain more knowledge on to create my own mini-mental status examination (MMSE) in my patient guide. Lastly, I will mentally prepare myself for my first interview with a professional and carefully reflect afterwards for my interview assessment.