So, my chosen elective was pediatric oncology, but it was not meant to be. My elective rotation was cancelled because a new PA was being trained, and so I could not be accommodated. I consider myself fortunate because I had time to find another rotation. Some of my classmates had very inconvenient last minute changes!
However, I was definitely disappointed because I was so looking forward to it. I like working with kiddos and I am drawn to oncology. Plus it seemed like it could be a good fit for me. I also wanted to do a rotation at this specific hospital. That is one of the wonderful things about our one month clerkships, we get to try out different specialties, facilities, and organizations as we figure where we want to work and even what specialty we want to work in if we aren't yet sure.
Well, I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason and we end up where we are supposed to be. I was in my underserved rotation at the teen health clinic when I found out about the cancellation. I talked to my preceptor there and even though it took her a month or so to convince the organization, they took me on at a community clinic doing family medicine. It was a wonderful experience. And much more hands on experience than I would have received in pediatric oncology.
Surprisingly, they even asked me to come back for my preceptorship! And I'm happily returning after I finish my 6th and final clerkship, surgery (which I actually finish this week).
I would still totally love spending some time in pediatric oncology but sometimes you just have to roll with the punches!
Stay Encouraged!
