It really felt like Spring Break could not have come at a more opportune time. Many of my classmates, including myself, were ready for a change after our unit on the central nervous system. The brain is fascinating, but there sure are a lot of parts to memorize! The nuclei, and tracts, and many specific anatomical features in the head and neck can seem never-ending. After CNS, we had a week of practicing our diagnostic skills during Chief Concern week, and then we were finally off to Spring Break.

I spent the first half of break in Colorado with one of my college roommates, Martha. We spent a few days in Boulder and in Denver and had a chance to hike up the Flatirons and across frozen lakes and up mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. The experience was exhilarating. I had never been that high up on a mountain before! The panoramic views were incredible and I just couldn't contain my excitement. It's amazing how much better food tastes, too, after spending all day moving.

Now that break is almost over, I feel so much more refreshed and ready to head back into a stretch of intense learning. (I wish my ears would catch up though; they have yet to equalize the pressure correctly post-mountains. After CNS I can picture exactly what my Eustachian tube needs to do to re-equilibrate). The M1s are starting the infectious disease sequence on Monday, which I have heard great things about. You know a class has to be good if the upperclassmen have made T-shirts with the professor on them. After this trip, I'm also a lot more motivated to keep up with a rigorous exercise routine so I can take on harder hiking and climbing routes this summer. Here's to new challenges, warmer days, and staying mentally well in this last stretch of the semester!