I had been worried about my biochemistry grade because I picked up a new boyfriend last block and was more than a little distracted from learning about complete human metabolism. The final biochemistry block on the endocrine system, therefore, was not only experientially relevant, but increasingly critical. In addition to allowing myself unbridled dark chocolate indulgence while studying biochemistry, I decided to skip class (watch lectures on double speed via internet) and instead to meet with my peers for problem solving and material analysis. I chose to meet with one friend, Tracy, for a slow, detailed analysis of each chapter then with another friend, Nicole for a quick discussion of key processes twice a week. Things seemed to go well throughout the month long block. The last day of class, Tracy wanted to meet and so did Nicole. I nervously suggested that the three of us join forces Friday at 7pm. By Wednesday, I was developing a raging viral infection; I was coughing, hoarse, aching, and tired. Friday only provided time for my symptoms to escalate. I arrived with five surgical masks so that I wouldn't spew contaminants all over Nicole's house.
Nicole had been at a
very fun birthday party the previous night and was still "tired". I
decided not to bring food because of my germ spewing and communicated this to
Nicole, suggesting she eat beforehand. I
thought Tracy indicated she planned to eat beforehand… but forgot to
verify.
Through the evening and
into the night; one "tired", one spewing germs, one starving, we busted and
laughed and drilled through the most difficult concepts of the biochemistry
endocrine module.
At the end, Tracy
confessed she hadn't eaten since breakfast and I had sneezed my way through two
hospital masks, and wads of tissues…. The endocrine system and the final block
of exams, however, stood no chance of deterring us. I ended up earning the highest grade of my semester on that biochemistry block... and having much more fun than ever before.
