Preparations: The white coat

So my white coat. School issued, and much too big (they didn't think to order XXS petite, I suppose.) Also, shapeless and boxy (but isn't every med student's white coat?) The question is, should I get a new one? They're only really $25 online (about the same as two frou frou cocktails plus a nice tip.) Certainly, I'd prefer a white coat that didn't make me look like I was playing dress-up in my Dad's clothing. But do I really want to be known on rotations as the girl who was vain enough to spring for a white coat with pleats?

(If you're not afraid of looking too good in your white coat, the one to the right is the "Barco Workforce Women's 29" 3 Pocket Lab Coat" and it's the svelte-est I've found that still includes a pen pocket.)

Preparations: The blog

My man M-squared say this blog can be like therapy. Good, cause I'll probably need some of that in the upcoming year.

Got mobile blogger posts to work, but can't get them to include a title. Not sure if this is a good thing (means I have to review/edit any midnight postings) or if I'll get annoyed at the lack of title-age.

Preparations: The clothing

Guys have it so easy. Slacks, button down, tie... Not only do women have to make a choice, but there's so much *meaning* wrapped into the clothing we pick. Obviously, there's going too far in the sexy side of things (my gang has nicknamed one fellow student "Crop Top" for obvious reasons, and another "Wobbles" because of her height and her skinny stilettos.) But there's criticism if you chose the other direction too, in addition to the issue of feeling crummy because you know you don't look your best. ("I can't believe how much the Emergency Med residents let themselves go!" said a friend, an aspiring EM, who 100% respects his female mentors, but thinks they would look better if they dyed their greys...)

As for me, I decided that tucked in shirt make me miserable, stiff button downs feel ridiculous, and sweaters are too hot under white coats, even in the dead of winter. Doesn't leave much, does it? For the past few months, I've been keeping my eye out for loose jersey blouses from Gap, Bluefly and Martin Osa. I have exactly 6 right now, which is the # of days in a row I'll be working when I start my medicine rotation in June. Think it's enough? We'll find out soon...

Preparations: The ID

Got my ID today. I almost cried when I saw it. I'd done my best to look nice, with a button down and some make-up -- I even spent a few minutes taming my hair! The result? I look stuffy, preppy and humorless. Is this what the next 2 years have in store?