Finishing Strong: An April Wrap-Up

 

March Service Hours: 5 hours 

 Cumulative for the Spring Semester: 25 Hours

      In April, I wrapped up my final semester before graduation while volunteering with Crescent Care, where I helped assemble sexual health testing kits and shared resources for free STD/STI testing across New Orleans. I also finished my pharmacology program strong, raising my grade from an A- to an A. Overall, this month marked the close of my program with a solid foundation in pharmacology and a deeper commitment to serving underserved communities through clinical care.

The Science of Pressure: What I Learned in a High-Intensity Month

                                                         March Service Hours: 0 hours 

 Cumulative for the Spring Semester: 20 Hours

The month of March was very intense, as I studied rigorously for the pharmacology program while completing three presentations and several exams. During this time, I strengthened my public speaking skills and developed the discipline needed to earn A’s on my upcoming exams. One aspect I found particularly interesting in the psychology module was how granular many of the mechanisms are in various mental health and brain disorders, highlighting the need for more thorough research to develop effective therapeutics.

Community. Mentorship. Health equity.

February Service Hours: 17 hours 

 Cumulative for the Spring Semester: 20 Hours

In February, I dedicated my time as a full-time Pharm MS student to serving both the New Orleans community and fellow pre-med students. I advised students preparing for the MCAT and supported the planning of the third annual Black Health Summit hosted by CrescentCare Clinic by managing logistics, coordinating vendors, and conducting interviews. This experience reinforced that beyond learning about health disparities and disease in the classroom at Tulane, I can actively promote health education, awareness, and equity within the community with purpose and compassion.

Learning, Teaching, and Translating Medicine

 

January Service Hours: 3 hours 

 Cumulative for the Spring Semester: 3 Hours

I volunteered with MDI Prep as an academic advisor, helping students preparing for the MCAT develop disciplined study routines and structured schedules while learning how to bridge gaps between key concepts. As the spring semester begins, I have been enjoying my pharmacology course, where I am strengthening my presentation skills and learning about contraceptives in the reproductive module. I especially enjoy translating this knowledge into real-world applications.

More Than a Student: November Volunteering

November Service Hours: 7 hours 

 Cumulative for the Fall Semester: 22 Hours

 In November, as a pharmacology graduate student, I volunteered by writing Christmas cards to nursing home residents, helping a nonprofit distribute free bus passes, and assisting with clinical rounds. These experiences taught me how to balance academics while giving back to my community. This month strengthened my versatility, time-management skills, and commitment to serving the community.

Caring with Compassion: Lessons from Serving the Underserved in New Orleans

October Service Hours: 8 hours 

 Cumulative for the Fall Semester: 16 Hours

 The month of October, I was able to provide hands-on care to underserved patients within the New Orleans community. Through this experience, I grew more confident caring for patients—checking vitals, assisting with wound care, and learning to see the person beyond the symptoms. I found that listening with empathy made patients feel truly heard and comforted. I also encouraged them to seek care early when symptoms appeared, stay hydrated, and maintain proper nutrition. One of the most valuable lessons I applied from pharmacology was understanding glucose imbalance and helping patients see why monitoring their glucose levels matters for their overall health.

Translating Pharmacology Beyond the Classroom

 

September: 8 hours
In September, I volunteered with Freestanding, a nonprofit serving underserved populations in Orleans Parish. I joined their mission to deepen my connection with the community and gain practical skills, earning certifications in Stop the Bleed, CPR, wound care, and first aid. I also worked behind the scenes organizing the stockroom where medical supplies are stored. While organizing, I educated my team on the antifungal medications we had, explaining their classifications and how topical creams work on skin infections. 
This activity showed me that supporting vulnerable populations extends beyond direct patient care. Maintaining an organized system and sharing pharmacology knowledge are equally valuable in improving access to health resources. Reflecting on the experience, I realized the importance of blending clinical training with behind-the-scenes efforts to create sustainable support for underserved communities.