A Good Problem

I'd say I'm a pretty social and outgoing person. I love meeting new people, and I love crowds. But I definitely have moments when I just want to be left alone... basically anytime I'm sober.

You see I have a problem... a good problem actually considering I'm going to become a doctor.

Today I had to go to the breast clinic to, get this, do breast exams. I am supposed to learn how to properly interact with a patient and properly perform a complete breast exam.

This morning I performed 4 breast exams, and for the other 4 hours I listened to the surgeon I was following talk... and talk... and talk about herself, her issues, her life... her.

I admit I felt a bit uncomfortable, wondering why an attending was divulging all this information to me, a lowly med student. But while this doesn't happen to me often, it is not uncommon for strangers to just start talking to me. Oddly enough, it happens the most when I'm wearing any of my Tufts U. gear.

So I listened, because I actually do pay attention to people. I looked her straight in the eye as she vented so she knew I cared. And I communicated with her silently, letting her know that what she says will remain confidential.