Graduation and Board Certification 🎓✅

The last time I wrote, I mentioned that I was on the home stretch of preparing for and sitting the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) written examination <-- this is the exam taken as part of the process to becoming a board certified Orthodontist. I am very pleased to announce that all my hard work and studying paid off. I passed!!!

I have taken many standardized exams in my time but this one was by far the one I was most nervous about. When the email popped in my inbox I remember being overcome by a flood of emotions; my heart felt like it would literally bust through my chest, my palms got sweaty and I could barely breathe lol! My co-resident had to open the email for me and deliver the good news, phew!! 

I've also since graduated!! 🎓🎓and I had the great fortune of sitting exactly 5 rows away from President Barack Obama, as he delivered our commencement speech.

Graduation Day! Ticket in-hand eagerly awaiting the arrival
of President Barack Obama

Howard University 2016 Commencement Speech (in case you missed it)

This was a historic day and I will never ever forget it. His speech was very inspiring  and a strong reminder that your Passion must be matched with Strategy.

I was this close to the President

Howard University Orthodontics, class of 2016!

From job/contract negotiations, apartment hunting, board exams, several research presentations, graduation and lots of other residency related things and... just life in general, the last couple weeks has been nothing shy of eventful and amazing (stressful too, at times). The only thing missing is the icing on the cake - my certificate to solidify my new title as Orthodontist. Stay tuned.

Orthodontics Board Exam

As many of my readers know, I was accepted into my dental school's Orthodontics Program in July 2014 and since it's a 2 year program, that leaves me with just about three (3) more months until I get the official title of Orthodontist. I'm very excited for this accomplishment and embracing the impending next steps of my life, ahem real world.

But before I graduate from my program and move on to bigger, brighter and better things, there are a couple hurdles to jump over - one of the biggest right now being the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) written examination, yes another national board exam.

With just about 2 more weeks remaining until I sit this exam, there's a lot of burning the midnight oil and exam anxiety at this time. You would think taking these standardized exams would be a breeze by now, but no. I still have to call up on all the things that I've done in the past to get through my studies and remain focused. There is a world of material to cover with only so much time left - so staying organized is key. I've been struggling this time around with the staying focused bit. I have a lot of things going on: employment contract negotiations, research and grand case preparations (finalizing my research and presentations for 3 research symposiums coming up within the next 3 weeks), chief resident duties, family...stuff, blogging over at The NEXT DDS, to name a few.
This is however, nothing new to me and I will be plummeting through like I always do!

Wish me luck!