Another Mardi Gras in New Orleans

 Hours: 8

Hi again! 

February in New Orleans is unlike any other month in the city. As an undergraduate, Mardi Gras was one one of the many things to look forward to in the spring semester. This time around was no different however for other reasons. Over time, I have realized which parades I actually enjoy and so I was able to see a few of those. These include Muses, Endymion, and Rex. However, I also know that I need to relax during this time so I was also able to enjoy nights in and spend some time to myself to destress and prepare for the rest of the semester in this master's program and dedicate more time to MCAT prep. 


In terms of my community service this month, I am excited to have been able to continue with Ochsner and help patients during the festival time. My role as a volunteer has not since changed but I saw the impact that the carnival season had on patients who were experiencing health issues. They were either nervous that they would not be able to travel outside the city if they were attempting to avoid the parades or they were scared they weren't going to be able to ride in the parades or enjoy the parades. It was interesting to see that many of the patients viewed this season similar to Christmas time and see how surprise health issues that arose impacted their mood and their fears. As a result, in addition to helping the nurses and physicians manage the chaos in the department during this time, a new challenge this month was being able to calm the patients and ensure that the medical staff would try their hardest to assure a Mardi Gras as planned for the patients and their families. As an aspiring physician, I understand the importance in managing and understanding the various emotions that patients express at different times during the year and being prepared to handle those situations. Being able to interact with patients during this time provided an insight into how to do that now and in the future. 

I continue to look forward to the next few months in the program! 

Until next time, 

Ishita

February hours: 8 

Total hours: 12 


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