I have had a lot of experiences since my last post. Getting ready for PA school to start has been a lot of busy work. I got most of the 'required' books for this first semester and it turns out there are about 17... Now I've heard that one shouldn't buy every book, because not all of them will end up being used, it just depends on the student and their learning style.
I honestly can't say that I have a definite 'learning style' yet, because I've never had such a demanding course load as I will have in PA school. I've been told to find ways that work for me, and then stick with them. I do know however that working with a group will be a must, I have received this instruction more than once. I'm sure a few individuals can circumnavigate around this, however I know that I thrive in a group setting.
I also got an iPad! (for school of course...) I had to justify this to my wife in some way. I have read around and learned of a lot of little tools that PA student have used. None have compared to what can be done with this one device. Plus I already love everything Apple, so it wasn't hard to sell me on it! I bought an app called 'Notability' which has been really amazing. I have included a few screen shots from their website. I can upload power points or PDF's and write, mark, highlight directly on them. I also allows me to write free hand on lined paper and take written notes. This app also allows me to record lectures while taking notes, which I can review while going over my notes. I can also take a picture and place it right on my notes, and mark/write directly on it. These can easily be saved right to my computer and easily shared with other classmates if needed.
This is the stylus that I bought, it really feels great in your hand and feels closer to a pen than any other stylus I've used.
I recently received a financial aid award letter in the mail, and it really is exciting to know that its all falling into place. When getting my Titers (showing I am immune to chicken pox and Hep B) I found out that I am no longer immune to Hepatitis B... I got these shots in grade school, but now I have to get the 3 shot series again. I have one more shot to get in April, then I have to get the last of the series in September (while I'm in school) and another Titer showing I am immune. So for those who are planning on getting into PA school, make sure your immunizations are up to date, you will need them!
We found a place to live in Oregon and have put down the required amount for our deposit. I have not seen the place in person (which would have been nice) its just too expensive and not completely necessary to fly up just to see the place. I have seen pictures, and also had a fellow student (who is also from Arizona) check out the apartments when she was up there looking for a place. I can't wait for the move, and can't wait to get started!
