First Line | Pre-Med and Medical Student Professional Development and Mental Health

Episode 59. I focus most on diabetes mellitus type 2, speaking about the specific management and monitoring that patients do themselves (like checking fasting and postprandial glucose) and monitoring done by physicians (like monofilament testing). Lifestyle changes are vital to managing diabetes and reducing the impact of other comorbidities such as hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, a...

Episode 58. I discuss the physiology of insulin in the body and what causes diabetes (type 1 and 2). Another topic covered is how complications of diabetes arise, such as neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. I also answer the following common questions: How is diabetes diagnosed? What are the risk factors of diabetes? How can I prevent diabetes? What is the management if I am di...

Episode 57. The episode covers my experience taking COMLEX Level 2, with a recording from right after the exam and after my score release. I cover tips for studying, what topics I wish I would have looked at more, how to keep energy during the test day for eight blocks of questions, and how to predict your score before taking the exam. Visit First Line’s website and blog : ⁠https://www.firstlinepo...

Episode 56. I discuss my initial thoughts right after taking the USMLE Step 2 and tips about studying and strategy on test day (what to incorporate into your routine leading up to test day, what to eat/drink on test day, how to approach biostatistics, how to pace yourself, when to take breaks and much more). Then I share my results compared to predictions from my practice tests. Visit First Line’s...

Episode 55. Now that Level 1 and Step 1 are scored pass/fail without a numerical score, other factors in students' residency applications are becoming much more significant. Think about the following starting on day 1: research experience, extracurricular involvement, and leadership. While going through medical school, you must focus on your grades first and foremost but also consider exploring di...

Episode 54. I cover frequently asked questions, including the following: "What is the most efficient way to study?" "Should I attend lectures if it is optional?" "What is Anki, and should I use it?" I also discuss what you can get out of textbooks, whether you should join a study group, what to get out of orientation, and how to take notes effectively. Visit First Lin...

Episode 53. I recorded this series just weeks after completing all my core clerkships in my third year of medical school. Hear tips for each rotation: general surgery, pediatrics, OB/GYN (obstetrics and gynecology), psychiatry, internal medicine, family medicine, emergency medicine, and OMM. I talk about how to prepare for each rotation and some rotation-specific insight into preparing for the she...

Episode 52. The subtypes of major depressive disorder (MDD) include seasonal affective disorder, atypical depression, substance-induced MDD, and MDD with psychotic features. Other depressive disorders covered include persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), minor depressive disorder, postpartum depression, and adjustment disorder. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstlinepod...

Episode 51. I discuss what everyone needs to know about major depressive disorder (MDD), including risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a discount off your TrueLearn subscription use link: ⁠https://truelearn.referralrock.com/l/firstline/⁠ and code: firstline Content on First Line is for educational and informational purp...

Episode 50. Whether you are thinking of starting a podcast or want a behind-the-scenes look into my experience starting First Line, I hope you enjoy this honest reflection of my first year in the podcast business with tangible tips. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://poddcaststudios.wixsite.com/firstlinepodcast⁠ For a discount off your TrueLearn subscription use link: ⁠https://truelear...

Episode 49. Topics covered include practice questions, Anki, dedicated studying, strategies for COMAT/shelf exams, types of questions unique to clinical learning, and general test-taking tips. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://poddcaststudios.wixsite.com/firstlinepodcast⁠ For a discount off your TrueLearn subscription use link: ⁠https://truelearn.referralrock.com/l/firstline/⁠ and cod...

Episode 48. Here is what you need to know about vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B9 (folate/folic acid), and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). Learn the role of each vitamin, how to incorporate these vitamins into your diet, and signs of deficiency and toxicity. Visit First Li...

Episode 47. We dive into essential strategies for maximizing your learning during clinical rotations, from reviewing procedures and anatomy in advance to engaging proactively with your preceptors. We also discuss the importance of professionalism, managing the pressure of pimping questions, and preparing for shelf exams while navigating the shift from theory to real-world decision-making. Visit Fi...

Episode 46. We discuss optimizing your study routine while on clinical rotations, from listening to the best podcasts for medical students to incorporating practice questions into downtime. We also share tips on staying productive during patient interviews, using a template for thorough assessments, and maintaining work-life balance. Helpful podcasts include Pediatrics Clerkship: A Medical Student...

Episode 45. We discuss building confidence and making a positive impression during medical rotations by preparing for the rotation, engaging with patients, and actively learning from preceptors. We also cover tips for standing out, from reviewing patient history to asking thoughtful questions and showing enthusiasm. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a disc...

Episode 44. We cover essential tips for medical students preparing for rotations, including what to bring and what you must do on day 1. Here are the tips that worked for me and how to get perfect scores on your preceptor evaluations. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a discount on your TrueLearn subscription use link: ⁠https://truelearn.referralrock.com/l...

Episode 43. We dive into a proven strategy for conquering the USMLE Step 1 and COMLEX Level 1 exams, emphasizing how to structure your study time after classes end for the year. I include which resources to prioritize in the weeks leading up to the exam. Listen to episode 21 for general studying tips for COMLEX Level 1 and USMLE Step 1. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinep...

Episode 42. I discuss my experience completing my third-year OB/GYN rotation. From assisting in deliveries to learning about pregnancy complications and continuity of care, this rotation provided invaluable experiences. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a discount on your TrueLearn subscription use link: ⁠https://truelearn.referralrock.com/l/firstline/⁠ an...

Episode 41. We delve into common gynecological health issues, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal discharge, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We also discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments for these conditions, with an emphasis on proper diagnosis, effective treatments, and maintaining vaginal health. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodca...

Episode 40.  We explore essential prenatal care and common pregnancy complications, including routine maternal and fetal health monitoring throughout pregnancy. We dive into conditions like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and anemia and discuss key interventions to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a disco...

Episode 39. We dive into the intricacies of the menstrual cycle, from the phases of menstruation to common disorders like PMS, dysmenorrhea, and anovulation. We also discuss treatment options and the impact of conditions such as PCOS, thyroid disorders, and primary ovarian insufficiency on women's health. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a discount off yo...

Episode 38. We explore the power of positivity and how affirmations and self-care practices can transform your mindset and boost confidence. We dive into practical tips like daily gratitude exercises, affirmations, and reflection on your strengths to create a more intentional and optimistic outlook. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com For a discount on your True...

Episode 37. I share my experience during a four-week general surgery rotation in medical school, diving into the structure, types of cases, and the realities of working in the operating room. I reflect on how the specialty didn’t align with my interests, highlighting the importance of discovering what excites you in medicine. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.firstlinepodcast.com...

Episode 36. Join me as I share insights from my third-year pediatrics rotation experience at a newly established outpatient clinic, where I navigated the unique challenges of caring for young patients while balancing patient care and learning. I discuss common pediatric cases, the challenges of working with young patients, and the critical role of vaccines in preventive care, blending personal ref...

Episode 35. I Dive into the day-to-day life of a third-year medical student during an internal medicine rotation, featuring insights into hospital workflows, patient care, and balancing academics with personal wellness. This episode explores the unique seven-on/seven-off schedule, the role of hospitalists, and tips for maximizing productivity. Visit First Line’s website and blog: ⁠ https://www.fir...