Written by Samantha Cooney, TUSPM '24

Originally shared in the May/June 2021 PPMA Newsletter

Although my first year in podiatry school was anything but con-ventional, I believe that the future podiatrists of the Class of 2024 are going to be stronger and more motivated than ever. Here’s why: Upon the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, the unexpect-ed has completely engulfed our everyday “normal” life and has pushed us into our new reality. Massive shutdowns, social dis-tancing, quarantines, stay-at-home orders, and travel bans have come upon us with seemingly no end in sight.

Personally, my new reality began at the end of March 2020 when my undergraduate commencement was cancelled, medical school interviews shifted to being virtual, and I was unable to physically visit the medical programs and cities I would reside.

During this uncertain time, I received an important piece of advice that helped propel me through the relentlessly tough next few months. Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, Cleveland OH, advised me that with all of the uncontrollable factors flying around today, it is important to take control of what I can and let go of everything else. With this sound advice and a leap of faith, I was ready to embark on my first year of medical school at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine.

Now that I am nearing the completion of my first year at TUSPM, I have come to realize that many of the obstacles that we faced as we began medical school during the pandemic were in fact opportunities to personally grow and professionally succeed.

More time with less distractions 
As the entirety of our first semester was conducted online, we lost some great in-person learning opportunities that stu-dents normally get to participate in, such as lectures, workshops, conferences, cadaver labs, and so on. However because of this, we had an abundance of uninterrupted time to complete our schoolwork. The trick was staying personally motivated and disciplined because we had only ourselves to stay accountable for our virtual curriculum.

Mental and Physical Toughness 
Although I had an abundance of extra time to study, I also had to prioritize my mental and physical health. I began taking at least one hour per day to go to the gym or go on a run in order to stay sharp both mentally and physically. Personally, this not only allowed me to let off steam but also helped me to refocus on what needed to be done to succeed academically. 

Reflection and Reassurance 
At times, it was challenging to recognize that I was actually a medical student at TUSPM due to the countless weeks and weekends I spent on my laptop in my apartment rather than collaborating with my professors and peers. I had to dig deep at times to stay motivated while continuing toward my goals. 

With my first year at TUSPM wrapping up and the pandemic slowly getting under control, the one thing I am certain of ironically, is the uncertainty the future holds. But, with the obstacles we have had to overcome in just our first year, I — along with the future podiatrists of the Class of 2024 — will be able to conquer any obstacle on our way to succeed academically, mentally, and professionally.