Dave Verkh is a second-year medical student at International American University College of Medicine and is a glowing example of the type of student pursuing their medical education at IAU. He recently wrote an article which was published in the European Medical Journal. We asked Dave to provide us some insight into his article and what inspired him to write this article.
Tell us something about yourself and about your article.
1. I finished my second year at IAU in April and am currently transitioning into my clinical rotations. While studying for Step 1, I was an observer with the Oncological Urology team at the London Health Science Centre – Victoria Hospital, in London, Ontario. Although this case stems from a different specialty, it was discussed throughout with the physicians, and I had asked permission to write a case-based article on it. Along with the healthcare team, the case was found to be extremely unusual with regards to liver function, biliary function, and the overall state of the patient.
What inspired you to write this article?
2. I’ve always wanted to write articles and contribute to the community, not only from a treatment-based perspective but also educationally. As a person who has done research previously, I believe it is vital to contribute unusual cases and blogs so colleagues can benefit from it. As it is well known, not every case of a certain disease presents the same. If a physician encounters a case where the disease presents in a completely different manner than the general healthcare population is used to, I believe it’s their duty to share that with the healthcare community, so everyone can be prepared for any future patients presenting similarly.
How has IAU helped or inspired you to write this article?
3. IAU has given me the basic knowledge that every medical student needs to understand to be able to write articles. It stems from the most basic to the most complex medical information, including laboratory values, their definition, and most importantly, their function. The pathology involved in this disease — particularly in this patient — is quite complex, and I’m glad it was taught to me the way it was. Pathology at IAU helped me understand the different stages that a disease can encompass – from the basic initial stage, to its systemic progression throughout the body.
Do you have any message for IAU Students to inspire them?
4. I would recommend that organization should be a priority for all students. Time organization is a must to be successful in studying for board exams, USMLEs, and overall completion of multiple tasks in a short time frame. Set time goals for each study item and complete those tasks. Never set goals you know you’re not going to accomplish. Always set realistic goals that can be accomplished within that timeframe.
Please join us in congratulating Dave and we wish him continued success during his time at IAU and beyond.
