by Kiera | Mar 29, 2019 | Journal
I just finished registering for fall term of my junior year. It’s unbelievable how quickly my first two years at Washington and Lee have flown by, but I look forward to getting deeper into the Neuroscience major and the pre-med track. I just registered yesterday, and everything worked out as planned: I will have a busy fall with volleyball and a full load of classes! My schedule is as follows:
- Chemistry 341: Biochemistry I
- Physics 111: General Physics I
- Cognitive and Behavioral Science 254: Attention
- Cognitive and Behavioral Science 398: Advanced Research Methods in Psychophysiology
by Kiera | Mar 1, 2019 | Journal
Earlier this year I applied to study abroad in Stockholm, Sweden. Originally I had considered studying abroad for STEM classes, but I feel in love with this class the moment I read the description. I have very minimal experience with the theatrical arts and the Swedish culture, so I am very much looking forward to the experience. I will be in Sweden for three weeks during our “Washington Term” in May. I plan to upload a gallery of pictures from the theater performances and other cultural events that we attend, so stay tuned!
by Kiera | Nov 5, 2018 | Journal
We just won ODACs a few days ago. The ODACs, Old Dominion Athletic Conference, is the NCAA Division III conference Washington and Lee participates in. We played our rival, Randolph-Macon, and won in five sets. I started as a middle, and had the opportunity to play with my teammates in one of the biggest games of the season. Our road to NCAAs has started, and I am excited to see where it takes us.
To stay updated on our progress in the ODACs this season and for the next two years you can check out the ODAC website for women’s volleyball.
by Kiera | Aug 11, 2018 | Journal
This summer I had the opportunity to shadow Dr. Philip Arbit at the Novi Surgery Center. Dr. Arbit is an anesthesiologist at the surgery center, so I got to sit in the OR for a variety of out-patient procedures including cataracts and minor wrist/spinal surgeries. In addition to sitting in on procedures, I got to watch Dr. Arbit and his colleagues interact with the patients. Dr. Arbit emphasized throughout my visits that patient care is one of the most important parts of the job.
Sitting in the OR and interacting with patients was an amazing experience, and I look forward to shadowing more doctors in the future!
by Kiera | Aug 10, 2018 | Journal
I just started working as crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line a few weeks ago. Wow – it is not what I expected! It’s upsetting to think that so many people turn to hotlines when they are in crisis, but I am glad that I can help out. 
My main work as a counselor on the platform involves creating a comfortable and safe environment for the texter and then working to collaboratively problem solve and think of potential coping mechanisms and solutions. The key is to bring the texter from a “hot moment” to a “cool moment” by establishing rapport and actively listening. It can be difficult to come up with effective solutions, but I’ve improved the more and more times I work a shift.
As someone who wants to pursue the health professions, working on a text line like Crisis Text Line serves as a reminder that physical health is only one type of healthcare – mental health is extremely important! I can’t wait to continue my experience as a crisis counselor in the upcoming months.
