Welcome to AndreaTooley.com! I’m so glad you stopped by the blog. This space started as a medical school blog in 2012 (formerly known as “A Doctor In The House”) and transitioned into a residency blog, where I shared my passion for health, wellness, and medicine. Currently, I am a fellow in ophthalmic plastic surgery in New York City. This blog is no longer active, but serves as an archive of my experience in medical school and residency.
If you are new here, a good post recapping things can be found here.
What I love the most about this blog is hearing from YOU! Please don’t hesitate to comment, tweet, or instagram message me.
Here’s a little bit more about me:
I was born in Sarasota, Florida and lived there until I was fifteen. My dad still lives in Sarasota, and my husband and I visit often. There’s nothing better than sunshine, runs on the beach, and relaxing in the breeze.
My grandmother also lives in Florida, but in Naples. She is the only other doctor in the family. When she went to Yale medical school over 50 years ago, they didn’t wear gloves in anatomy lab! Can you imagine? Her stories from residency are incredible.
In the middle of my sophomore year of high school, my mom, step-dad, and I moved to a beautiful small town in southern Indiana. It was in Evansville, Indiana that I first decided to go to medical school and discovered my love for ophthalmology.
I flew airplanes in high school and got my private pilot’s license when I was seventeen. One rainy day in the airport I met another pilot who told me about ORBIS International, an organization made up of ophthalmologists, pilots, nurses, engineers, and countless other volunteers who travel around the world to help save sight. I learned that so much of blindness is preventable, and that simple surgeries can change someone’s life by giving him or her back their vision. Then and there, I decided this was my purpose in life: to become and ophthalmologist and work for ORBIS, to help restore vision, and to teach and learn from other ophthalmologists around the world.
I entered Butler University in Indianapolis as a “pre-med” biology major, but after flipping through the course book for bio and realizing I had botany and zoology ahead of me, I quickly changed my major to chemistry. Chemistry is fascinating to me, and I enjoyed all the classes associated with the major, especially biochemistry, but didn’t feel fulfilled with this one major. I made the decision to double major in Chemistry and English Literature, so that I could experience something outside the sciences. Reading had always been a pastime I enjoyed, and I thought an English major would broaden my literary horizons and help make me a more well rounded student.
During college I started to become interested in health and fitness. Some of my friends were working out at the school gym, and I joined them. It didn’t take long for me to discover I loved the feeling of working out, especially cardio workouts, Pilates, and yoga. I think my weekly pilates classes got me through studying for the MCAT over the summer. Working out became a great stress reliever and study break.
When I moved out of my sorority senior year, I started cooking for myself for the first time. I found that making big batches of healthy foods like soup or stir-fry would get me through the week and help me to not eat fast food when I had a late night studying.
In the fall of my senior year, I applied to Indiana University School of Medicine early decision, which means I could only apply to the one medical school and if I was accepted, it was a binding acceptance. I vividly remember checking studentdoctor.net over and over the day acceptances came out. Everyone had gotten a generic email about a background check but I had not. I was sure this meant I hadn’t been accepted and I was devastated. The next day, I got the email and shortly after, an acceptance letter in the mail. I was going to medical school!!!
The first two years of medical school were the hardest academic years of my life. I studied more than I knew was possible. I missed out on times with friends and family. There were days I felt exhausted, defeated, unsure, bitter, and burnt-out. In spite of the rigorous schedule, I kept up a daily exercise routine and kept cooking on the weekends so that I could pack a healthy lunch and dinner every day. I think I spent hundreds of hours on the elliptical and treadmill with my notes.
After I took Step 1 of the medical boards, I made the decision to start this medical school blog! I had been reading healthy living blogs for close to a year, and wanted to document my own journey of staying healthy while in the medical field.
This blog contains some great moments from third and fourth year of medical school:
My first rotation of third year: Internal medicine
What I learned on my psychiatry rotation
What I learned on my neurology rotation
What I learned on my family medicine rotation
What I learned on my pediatrics rotation
What I learned on my surgery rotation
What I learned on my OBGYN rotation
I survived a long distance relationship for 6 years.
I did some research during medical school and presented it at multiple conferences.
I went on lots and lots of interviews for residency.
I matched into ophthalmology residency at Mayo Clinic.
I graduated from medical school.
Through those life-changing events, I cooked lots of healthy and unhealthy (but delicious) things! I ran 2 10k’s, a 5k, and did lots of workouts at home and at the gym.
I confessed I’m not a fitness fanatic. I don’t particularly excel in any one area of fitness. But, I do my best to get to the gym 4-5 times every week.
I talk a lot about medical school and studying on my youtube channel, so head over there if you’re interested in why medical school sucks.
Andrea Tooley MD
toriteachesfitness says
Hi Andrea,
I nominated you for the Very Inspirational blogger Award 🙂 You can see the post here: http://toriteachesfitness.com/2012/07/03/inspiration/
Thanks for inspiring me!
~Tori
Katie says
Hi! I literally just found your blog 2 days ago from Clare’s and I absolutely love it. The way you manage to balance your busy life is so inspiring! I’ve read through every post already! Stalker, much? Don’t answer that. Anyways, I’m a college senior at Notre Dame (not too far from Indy!) and going through MCAT studying and applications. I was wondering if you have any words of wisdom and/or words of comfort to offer during this time where I feel completely in over my head! Med school is something I want so, so badly and it’s hard to keep my confidence up sometimes! Anyways, thank you! And I’m so excited I found your blog! – Katie
Nate Delafield says
Hi Andrea! I am starting at IUSM- Indy this Fall (just a few weeks away) and I come from an exercise science background. Exercise and wellness have always been incredibly important to me and I worked as a personal trainer throughout my undergrad in Arizona. Do you have any advice on the wellness balance during school? What did you find to be effective with exercise, quick meals?
aawenzel says
Hey Nate! Thanks so much for your comment! Congrats on starting this fall. I think the best way to stay balanced with school is to study every day so you don’t fall behind and make meals/pack lunches on Sunday. You will be amazed at how many of our classmates buy lunch every day- at McDonalds, the hospital cafeteria, whatever. If you always bring your lunch, that won’t be a problem! If you can keep working out every day and eating healthy, you will feel so much better! But of course, when exams come around you have to make decisions about working out. There were some rounds of exams that I kept working out, and some rounds that I just didn’t have time- it’s all a personal decision.
Also, there is a tiny gym in the med sci building, so if you want to get in a quick workout you can, and most classes form running groups and things like that.
I love your exercise background!! You will have to give me workout advice and I can give you tips on first and second year 🙂 Enjoy the last bits of summer!!
Nate Delafield says
Thank you for the advice! I will certainly designate Sundays to my culinary planning. Regarding exercise, feel free to ask anything! We can grab a workout together sometime if you would like. There is a Color Run- 5K Julu 28th, my class has formed a team; should be a fun, active way to promote health and camaraderie. Continue kicking butt on your rotations and I look forward to reading more.
Sarah from Accepted.com says
Hi Andrea,
Accepted.com recently started a blog series featuring med school applicants and student bloggers. We’d love to include an interview with you on our site. Are you available to answer a few questions? Please email me and then I’ll shoot them your way.
Thanks!
Sarah (sarahp AT accepted.com)
aawenzel says
Just emailed you!
runservecook says
i saw your guest post and came on over to look and i like your blog I am now following check mine out!(;
aawenzel says
Thanks so much! Just checked out your blog and it’s great!!
runservecook says
thanks!(:
anna4ox says
Hi, Andrea
I am Ann, a fitness, health and self improvement blogger. I noticed that you were accepting guest contributions. Just wondering if you would be interested in a post around some interesting Twitter hacks for healthy lifestyle or a more indepth article about happiness. I love writing about tools, so I am pretty flexible there.
Looking forward to your reply (manifestcon at gmail dot com)
toriteachesfitness says
And for another award!
http://toriteachesfitness.com/2012/08/24/the-sunshine-award/
aawenzel says
Yippee!!! Thanks Tori you are the best!
Laura Hudson says
Andrea,
Your blog is fantastic. I have no idea how you manage to find time to update while in medical school. It’s been forever, but I am so proud of you for making your dreams come true. I remember when we were in 7th grade and you’d always talk about being a doctor. Look at you now! We should really catch up sometime. I know our moms are always talking but I’d love to get an update from you directly. Take care girly!!
aawenzel says
Laura! You totally made my day 🙂 Thank you for the sweet post- I think about you all the time! And, I’m constantly asking my mom if she talked to your mom and got more wedding details hahaha! We should definitely catch up- I would love it. And thanks again for the support on the blog!
Meredith McClain says
Hello! I just found your blog and I was wondering what your undergrad degree was and where you got it. Also, how do you like medical school? I am going to college next year and am just trying to figure out if I should go into medicine or journalism so any help is much appreciated!!
Thanks so much!
aawenzel says
Hey Meredith! I went to Butler University in Indianapolis for my undergrad. I originally majored in biology but I decided to switch to something more fun and less sciency- english literature. I ended up with a double major in English Lit and Chemistry. I really love medical school right now, but I have to admit- I hated it the first 2 years. It’s tough and you have to sacrifice a lot. Good luck with college next year! Where are you thinking about going? I have a few blogs that might help you out- under the science heading are some med school posts. Also, I did an interview about med school with accepted.com which you can access if you click the accepted.com icon on the right side of the page (scroll down from the top of the page and you’ll see it on the right). Keep me updated about your decision!!!
Debbie says
Hi Andrea! I just wanted to comment and say that I just found your blog today and I am sooo glad to find a fellow medical student who is into health and fitness too! I’m a 4th year med student in the UK and love reading healthy blogs too. I too struggle to keep a balance between studying (honestly I should be doing more of this than I actually do), working out and socialising. You have really inspired me to start prioritizing studying. I have my clinical examinations coming up in 3 weeks time and u have inspired me to start working hard for them and multitasking – working out whilst reading notes :p I look forward to reading more of your posts! Keep up the good balance! 🙂 xxxxx
aawenzel says
Hi Debbie! Thanks so much for your comment! I am so glad you found the blog! How are you liking 4th year so far? Do you have 6 total in the UK (I’m not completely sure how your system works… sorry!!) Anyways, good luck on your exams coming up! Sometimes you really just have to put studying first which I hate doing, but I guess it’s worth it in the end. Hope to hear from you soon!!
Jenna says
i love the concept of your blog! i’ve been reading healthy living blogs for years, and i’m in the med school application process right now, so i find your posts super interesting and entertaining! just wanted to say hi from a new reader 🙂
aawenzel says
Hi Jenna!! Thank you so much! Congrats on applying to med school- I love talking about all that stuff so if you ever have any questions let me know! About to check out your blog now 🙂
Sarah says
I just discovered your blog a few days ago and I am so in love with it. I’ve been reading healthy living blogs religiously for about a year and I just got into medical school last week! So it is so great to have two interests combined in one place. And even better to see that you’re fitting it all in. I hope you continue blogging for a long time, I’m learning a lot more about the third year of medical school through you. Just wanted to send some blog love!
aawenzel says
Hi Sarah!!! Congratulations on medical school!!! That is so exciting!! Which school? If you have any questions about first year don’t hesitate to ask! Hope you had a wonderful thanksgiving 🙂
Katie says
I love your blog! It’s so awesome to meet another Indiana gal too. I am not going to med school, but I love reading medical studies and learning about health. I am going to be studying fitness and nutrition in college this fall. 🙂
Jen says
So glad I found your blog!! I’m a second year medical student and I haven’t seen any med+fitness+food blogs! I’m looking forward to reading about your 3rd year experiences as well. STEP 1 is looming for me in a couple months and sometimes I forget that 3rd and 4th year are why I really want to be a doctor. Keep up the great blogging!
aawenzel says
Thank you for your comment Jen!!! Good luck on step 1!! It will be over before you know it and then you will start 3rd year and be happy! LOL I hope to hear from you again!!
Jen says
So I just watched your video about why medical school sucks and seriously I related to like everything you said!! I’m currently in the midst of STEP 1 studying (which I like to call “the darkness”) and it is pretty miserable. I know everyone says it gets better but it seems so bleak right now! Anyways I’m also curious – how did you decide on ophtho? for some reason I thought I had read on here somewhere you were likely doing OBGYN (however I could have also completely made that up..) thanks girl!
aawenzel says
“The Darkness” is the perfect way to describe it. I am so sorry you’re going through it- that was me exactly 1 year ago. But you will get through it and be amazing! And then you will LOVE third year! Where are you for medical school? So sorry if I’ve already asked. I’ve been interested in ophtho for a really long time (since I was 17) and I just found that through medical school I liked it more and more! I just finished my OBGYN rotation so maybe that’s what you read. Thank so much for your comment!!
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Lisa says
I just found your blog and LOVE it! I have just spent the last 1/2 hr. reading some of your posts. I am definitely a fan. You are super adorable, by the way. 🙂
Susie M. says
Hi, Andrea! I found your blog through the Healthy Living Blog website! I am a new blogger, and since my parents live in Indy (I’m getting my Master’s at IU), I thought I would check out blogs in my area! I really enjoy reading your blog. I love that you put a little bit of science in your posts because it’s fun to learn new facts behind health that I didn’t know. Thanks for sharing :).
Andrea says
Thank you so much Susie! Gotta love indianapolis!
rebecca says
Hi,
Who is the best person to reach out regarding advertising and remnant monetization?
Thanks,
Rebecca
Max says
Fellow 4th year here in Chicago! Wonderful blog! Neat that you do this. Found you online searching for something with medical school. Clicked on your video because of your beauty. Bet your told that ALL THE TIME. Anyways, congrats on going into Optho, it is very difficult, I did a 2 week rotation, and have a whole new respect for it. I am going into Pathology. Best of luck on the interview trail.
aawenzel says
Hey Max! Thanks so much for such a nice comment 🙂 Congratulations on path! I think that would be a sweet specialty! You will know SO much! Good luck with interviews to you too!
Sofia says
Hi Andrea,
I just discovered your blog and your videos on youtube today. I canme across your video of “stuff i wish i knew in college about med school.” I wanted to be a doctor, but after seeing that video, I am having double thoughts and dilema again. What should i do? It has been my dream to be a doctor. Any advice?
Andrea says
Hi Sofia,
I am so sorry to hear that the vlog is making you second guess things. What specifically concerns you? Maybe I can explain it better- so sorry!
Cory says
Hi Andrea! I will be attending medical school this upcoming fall and I’m so glad I discovered your blog! I was worried I may not be able to keep a good eating/exercise schedule and your blog is very inspiring. Congratulations on your match and I hope you continue to blog!
aawenzel says
Thank you so much Cory!! Congratulations on medical school!!!!
Rebecca says
Hi Andrea,
Just wanted to say – I love your blog! I’m a senior resident and my husband is also a physician. I am ALL for maintaining a healthy balance in life, whether it’s med school, residency, or beyond! Keep up the great work!
Rebecca
http://cestsibonmd.blogspot.com
aawenzel says
Hi Rebecca!!!! Your blog is gorgeous!!!! What field are you in?? Thanks so much for your comment!
Rebecca says
I’m in Pathology (Anatomic and Clinical) at Yale! By the way, I saw on your blog that you matched in Ophtho @ Mayo – Congratulations!! What an amazing achievement!!
aawenzel says
That’s awesome! And thank you so much! I am super scared and nervous to start residency!
Saad says
Hi Andrea,
I’ve been watching some of your videos, and was very interested in inviting you to Purdue to give a presentation to pre-med’s next semester. I’m currently the President of the Purdue American Medical Student Association (AMSA) and I’m actually getting ready to apply this June. If you’d accept this invitation, what would be the best contact information for me to send you some more details?
Thanks!
Anonymous says
Hey Andrea! I am nominating you for The Wonderful Team Member Readership Award.
In accepting this award, you are required to do the following:
1.Display the award.
2.Thank the person who nominated me on their blog.
3.Nominate 14 blogs who are readers of my blog.
4.Let the nominees know.
Check out my blog post http://thehonestdoctor.com/2014/04/18/my-first-blog-awards/#more-2847 for more details.
Congrats and thanks for inspiring me! 🙂
Rowan says
Hey Andrea! Just curious, did you start college early or skip a grade? Because isn’t undergrad 4 years long, and medical school another 4 years long? So if your in 4th year of med school, shouldn’t you be 26 years old?
aawenzel says
Hi! You are correct- I am 26 years old (my birthday was last week!) I did not skip a grade 🙂
Elizabeth says
Hey Andrea!
First off, thank you for posting all of these videos! One video in particular you made about studying really caught my attention because my studying methods are very similar to yours. I am currently studying for the MCAT and was curious, how did you study for yours? Are there any review books you would recommend? Courses or videos? Any tips at all? lol I would greatly appreciate any words of wisdom you can share!
Thanks again for everything you post!
-Elie
aawenzel says
Hi Elizabeth! Thank you so much for your comment! Good luck on the MCAT! I used Kaplan to study for mine, but that was 6 years ago, so I’m sure the best study methods have changed. I’m not up to date on what’s the best way to study, so I would recommend checking out studentdoctor.net. There are forums there and you can get an idea what everyone is using to study. Hope that helps!
Freda says
Hi Andrea, Im trying your method with studies to see how it goes. But I have a question? I have some professors that are really hard to understand and don’t know how to make my notes for them. Did you have professors like that? If so, how did you manage?
Thanks in advance!
aawenzel says
Hi Freda! What exactly do you mean really hard to understand? Do you mean their lectures are complex and confusing? Or do they have accents that are hard to decipher? If you have trouble grasping the concepts in lecture, it’s always helpful to go meet with the professor. They can explain things to you in different ways. Also, ask questions in class! Chances are, if you don’t understand it, other people don’t either! If it’s the accent thing (I’ve had a few professors with thick accents and I literally couldn’t understand a word they said) it helps to audio-record the lecture and listen to it multiple times. Hope that helps!
Freda says
Yes it was the accent I meant and yes it helps! I just watched another video you just made about studying. thanks for all your help. I just have another question though: How did you incorporate this type of studying to your studies for boards (Step 1)? Like did you go through BRS Neuro during the school year in addition to your lecture notes or during the summer?
aawenzel says
I started to really incorporate Step 1 stuff during the second semester of second year. I started doing Qbank questions every day, and taking notes in FA. I used BRS for my classes just as much as for Step 1 because I really like questions, and so I would always do the questions at the end of the chapter. Honestly though, I didn’t do much “dedicated” Step 1 studying until after second year was over. I just tried to study for my classes and figured that would help with boards. I did get through a lot of Qbank that semester, but that’s it. ***I didn’t do amazing on Step 1- I was above the national average, but not too much above the ophthalmology average- so if you have someone who got a 250+ take their advice! lol!
Freda says
thanks!
Jade Spinelli says
Hi Andrea,
I just want to firstly say THANK-YOU! I love your blog, insta and vlogs they are so inspiring! I am an Australian University student, also studying med and I cannot emphasise enough on how great your videos are and how much motivation they provide me with! Congratulations on all of your achievements by the way, you truly are inspiring 🙂
I just wanted to ask, however, how do you find time to do all of the things that you do? I am currently living with my boyfriend and have for the past 1.5 years, studying full-time, do not work – but I can barely fit in time for exercise and even just meal preps! I do exercise maybe twice – once a week but that’s it – it is killing me!! could you maybe upload a vlog on how you prioritise everything and still manage to live life healthily? 🙂
THANKS SO MUCH! :))
aawenzel says
Hi Jade!! Thank you so much for your comment! That’s a great idea for a vlog! In short, I meal prep on weekends so I have healthy food all week and I rarely eat out, I get up early and get work done or workout (depending on my schedule that month) and I make lots of to-do lists that help me focus. There are plenty of times I skip workouts for a week or two if I have to study a lot or if my schedule gets really busy. When that happens, I just focus on eating healthy, drinking lots of water, and getting enough sleep. We can’t be perfect all the time- but it’s the little healthy habits that count! It sounds like you are doing all the right things! Don’t be hard on yourself 🙂
ru says
Hi Andrea!
I stumbled upon your blog actually while researching on HRMs! I’m planning on getting a white polar FT60 myself and am kinda worried if the white would turn yellowish after prolong usaeg and sweating. Your white polar seems to be holding up pretty well from the looks of your insta pics 🙂
Anyway, congrats on your recent graduation! Your balanced lifestyle is really an inspiration and i love your radiant smile. I will be coming back for more of your posts and as and when I need some motivation!
Cheers! from half way around the world 😉
Cheers! 🙂
aawenzel says
Hi!! I really love my HRM and I don’t think the white has discolored much at all! Thank you so much for the kind comment!
Rose says
Hi Andrea!!! I love your blog!!! I wanted to ask you what did you get on the ACT when u took it in high school?
aawenzel says
Hi Rosa! I think I got a 31? It was so long ago! But that sounds right. Sorry!!
Rose says
That’s fantastic!!! 31 is actually my goal!!!! 🙂 thanks for replying!!
KRG says
Hi, Andrea!
What is your opinion on DO’s? With my current MCAT score, I am considered competitive for DO but not MD. I cannot decide if I want to retake the MCAT and take a gap year to become an MD, or stick with my current score and choose the DO route. Any words of advice for what you would do if you were in my shoes? Verbal reasoning killed my chances of getting into an allopathic school without a retake.
John says
Hey, I got one question for you. How old were you when you began you intern year of residency. I am curios because I am an IMG!
aawenzel says
I am 26 🙂
Simran says
Hi, I just came across your youtube channel and website and I honestly love it. I plan on going to medical school after my undergrad in Canada. I havent even started my undergrad yet but Im just too excited/nervous about this long journey ahead of me. I will be starting my undergrad this September and I am a biology major (with coop) right now. So basically what my question is; the required courses for medical school- do we just need 15 full credits of any subject, including the one or two biology/chemistry/physics courses? I know it might be different in Canada compared to the United States but any information you have will help a lot :).
aawenzel says
That sounds right to me. I generally took 18 credit hours each semester, but I was a double major, so I had a lot of classes to take! You can fill your schedule with any classes for your major or electives and then just take the required medical school classes each semester as well 🙂
Paul DeGregorio says
Found your blog from a link on KevinMD. I practice surgical retina in the beautiful state of New Hampshire. Thank GOD I didn’t have to compete with the likes of you for residency! Keep us in mind if you ever want to considerNew Hampshire especially if you do a surgical glaucoma fellowship 😀
Shameless promotion! Good luck in your career!
Paul
aawenzel says
Wow thank you so much for such a kind comment!!
Ale Rojas says
Dear Andrea-
I saw your videos over the summer…. All I wanted to say way THANK YOU! I am finishing up some med school pre reqs (Im a career changer, I already have a BA and MS. From teacher to future doctor). This has been my first week and all I could think of was what you said “there is NOTHING I can’t learn, it will just take me a little longer” I’ve been repeating it as my daily mantra or when I felt
Confused in class.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Anonymous says
Dear Andrea, Thank you for the inspiration and the honesty of your blog! I am a student in the full struggle of second year! and you vlogs make me keep going !
aawenzel says
Thank you so much!! Second year is the worst!! You will get through it- just keep on going!
Priyanka Parekh says
Hi Andrea,
I’m Priyanka, a MS3 here at IUSM. I’m interested in Ophthalmology, and Pat Kohtz had referred me to contact you. Can you please email me at pparekh@iupui.edu? I was unable to find you on IU address book. I would really like your advice!
Thank you for your time!
-Priyanka
Joselline Romero says
Hello Andrea!
Few weeks ago I started to watch your videos on YouTube because I was looking for information about and to give me an idea of what to expect in the medical field. I found your videos very helpful and interesting not only because give me an idea of what to expect but also to prepare me for school now and later on. And here I am in your blog. I’m a community college student planning to transfer to a university to study medicine. One of my teachers assign me a homework that ask me to interview someone on the medical field and the only person that came in my mind is you… please help me!
These are the questions:
As a pre-med, what classes that you have taken have been of greatest benefit to you?
What recommendations do you have for me to help me ensure successful completion of my degree?
What do you wish you had known before you started your degree program?
What is your favorite part about your career?
What advice do you have for someone who wants to begin working in your career field?
Please send me an email with the answers here: yvonne.rg96@gmail.com
Thank you,
Joselline Romero
Jay says
Hey
Im an aspiring dr hoping to give my mcats next year.
I have been reading your blog and following you on istagrAm but have a rather random question.. How old are you?
Im 25 and getting a lot of negativity from my family about going to medic achool at 26/27 and graduating at 30. Did you have students who were in their mid 20s when you were in medic school? I have always wanted to be a surgeon, i went from law to now doing a 2nd bachelors to get a degree that’ll cover pre med topics to help me get into medical school and i really want this but do not want to be this old lady compared to all the 25 year old doctors.
I am really, really shy and scared i’ll be booed out of med school.
aawenzel says
Hi Jay! Thanks for your comment! I’m 26. There were lots of people in my class who were 25-30 when they started medical school- it is not uncommon at all! I actually think that people who are a little older when they start do very well because they have so much more life experience!! I felt so young and naive when I started! Good luck 🙂
Amanda says
Andrea you are my hero. I’m a freshman in college and I’m taking bio and chem right now. Im also very into fitness and living a healthy lifestyle. I would love if you could email me because I have so many questions to ask you and would love to hear back from you! You are so inspiring and I love your advice!
Farrah says
Just discovered your blog (hooray for Recipe ReDux!) and am so glad I did! 😀 I’m in my third year of med school right now and haven’t come across [very m]any other med school/food/fitness blogs, so I’m definitely looking forward to reading more! Super belated congratulations on your match to Mayo Clinic! :]
Louisa says
Heck yeah this is exctlay what I needed.
Andrea Tooley says
Thank you thank you!!
http://www./ says
Hello there. I’m a playwright working on a “juke box” type musical. I understand that I’ll need to obtain “Grand Rights” for it. Can you tell me what the typical percentage of the gross is for these rights?
http://www./ says
alley). You let me send you a fresh book, were kind enough to sign it for me again and send it back to me, and you totally made my day/week/month/year/decade!In conclusion: Even though my last name does begin with the letter “B,” I hope to be kept as your Friend on Facebook. I believe we have more of a “history” than any other random Filipino.Sincerely,Tyrene BadaMiss Portland 2002
Jamie says
Hi Andrea!!
I am a recent OBGYN residency grad in Buffalo and I really enjoy your blog. I love seeing how you balance residency with real life, and make time for health and fitness. I have gotten a lot of great meal/exercise inspirations from your posts. Enjoy your intern year, it goes way too fast and is the basis for the rest of your life in medicine. Best of luck to you!
Kate says
Just found your blog and I’m so excited! I’m a sophomore in college majoring in nutrition and spanish on the pre-med track. Reading about your medical school experience, and now residency, is so inspiring and I’m looking forward to keeping up with it. I just recently made a blog (southernmdtobe.wordpress.com) to track my undergrad (and hopefully med school) experience! Can’t wait to try some of your study tips and recipes 🙂
Zara says
Dear Andrea. You are my inspiration. I am currently preparing for MCAT . Sometimes I feel very low on motivation due to stress and burnouts. And I know that Medicine is my thing. Please can you suggest something to stay motivated. Thank you
aawenzel says
Hi Zara! Stuyding for the MCAT is so hard!! It was the worst summer of my life! I felt so stressed and burned out- so I know exactly what you’re going through. Have you watched my motivation video? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgsGHPFKvSk&list=UUM6Ta_9fGvPHePLcAO5qaLA It’s all the things I do to stay motivated. Hope it helps! Good luck!
Zara says
Thank you so much Andrea. I will sure do check it out.
Zara says
Thank you so much Andrea. I will sure do check it out.
Camie says
hey, I just saw your blog and your videos on YouTube and I was wondering if you have any advice for someone whose still in high school, looking to be a med student.
A lot of things are still so confusing!
aawenzel says
Hi! This youtube video might help 🙂 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtWwkt5s2hU&list=UUM6Ta_9fGvPHePLcAO5qaLA
Aaron says
Hello Andrea! I just want to say that you are such an inspiration. I know everyone else who has commented has stated the same thing but it’s only because it’s true. I stumbled upon your youtube channel and decided to check out your blog. I read that you’re from Indiana! I’m from Indiana too! Not only that, but I’ve lived in Evansville for the last 5 years. I grew up in Bedford, just south of Bloomington. I’ve been a pre-med student for quite some time and I decided last year that I needed a year off so I’m currently teaching English in Korea, hahaha. I LOVE it but I miss school. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking and like you, being a doctor is the only profession I can see myself doing. I’ve had so many moments of frustration and wanting to give up. It’s nice to see that I’m not the only one. Thank you for sharing your story and all the tips you’ve posted. They are truly helpful. Good luck in residency!
aawenzel says
Thank you so much for this comment!!! That is amazing you are in Korea!! I hope you’re loving it- it sounds like an incredible experience! Good luck with everything- I’m sure you will be a wonderful physician!
Ashley says
How did you manage free time while in medical school, especially the first year? With your husband? I have another year half left before I apply. (:
aawenzel says
I just studied all the time and then took time off when my husband (boyfriend at the time) came to visit me. It’s hard but you get the hang of it and you will know how much you need to study and when you can take a break 🙂
EunwooYu says
Hi Andrea! This is Eunwoo from South Korea!!! I just got accepted to med school 2 days ago and I was always expecting this to happen which is saying THANK YOU SO MUCH for being a huge inspiration for me!!!
I studied economics in college so preparing for med-school was tough as I never had opportunity to take any science classes.!!
biology, chemistry, organic chem, and physics was just so hard and there were times when I was so much in despair and felt like I will never be into med school. When those time came I watched some youtube videos of yours to get some inspirations and it just really really helped me a lot. as you said “There is nothing that I cannot learn :)” I also shared your video with my friends and my friends are now all huge fan of yours!!!
when I actually start my first year, many tips you gave would help so much!!. Always thank you for making awesome videos.!! have a nice day :-)!!
aawenzel says
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!! You are amazing!!!!! What a wonderful accomplishment! I am so excited for you Eunwoo! Thank you so much for letting me know 🙂
Mansour Bekhit says
Great work, Dr. Andrea! Congratulations on your wedding. I am a Floridian too! I hold a Juris Doctorate but I have a passion for helping people. I am starting to take science classes at 37. Crazy idea? I am interested in internal medicine. From your experience as a resident, can you do internal medicine 9-5. If everything goes well, I will graduate in my mid 40s and would like to have a normal family life. Thank you so much.
aawenzel says
Hi! Thanks so much for your comment! 9-5 might be tough, but I suppose you could if you worked at an outpatient clinic. I actually don’t know a ton about life and hours in internal medicine- i will ask around!
Thanks!
Abi says
Hey Andrea!
My name is Abi. I found your Blog (actually your YouTube channel first) about two weeks ago after getting totally intimidated by fellow nursing students! I am in my second semester of college (18 years old) and I know I really want to be a Cardiologist! I’ve really been doing some soul searching about what to get my bachelors in. The debate has gone back and forth between nursing and psychology. I love medicine so I’m currently taking prereqs to get into the nursing program but I realized my pathway was very unclear and especially the pathway to Med School! Stumbling upon your blog was probably the best thing to happen to me so far this year. I feel like reading your blogs and watching your videos has really tamed my nerves, answered my questions, and even motivated myself to get things done! You are like the older sister I never had. Nobody in my family has been to medical school, or even college for that matter, so your advice is greatly appreciated. I didn’t have fantastic grades in high school which worried me, but your motivation has really been helpful to me. I do have some questions still which I plan to email you in the near future about, but I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your help! You are so motivated and positive with such a busy life! I couldn’t imagine having a husband and friends and working out and all the studying you do while being a resident. I’m up for the challenge when I cross that bridge and I hope to be as successful as you are, but as for now I have lots of studying to do to get there! Thank you so much!!!
Andrea Tooley says
Abi!! You are so sweet!! Thank you so much for this wonderful comment 🙂 Good luck on your journey! I can’t wait to hear about all your success!
Jess @hellotofit says
Can’t believe I’m JUST now discovering your blog through Sweat Pink. Following you now! 🙂 My boyfriend is finishing up his third year of medical school now, so it will be nice to read about your journey as a resident!!
Andrea Tooley says
Congrats to your boyfriend!! Fourth year is the best- you will love it with him!! Thanks so much for your sweet comment!
rose says
Hey Andrea! I’m in my junior year in high school and currently taking chemistry ( my high school requires us to take environmental science freshmen year). I’ve never been a huge fan of science, especially chemistry. My chemistry teacher just graduated from college and I feel as though he doesn’t teach well and that is the reason why I have such hard time with that class. Anyway, I am really concerned because I want to be a surgeon, I am not sure what I want to specialize on just yet, I’m thinking about either cardiothoracic surgery or general surgery. My problem is that I’m not very good at science, and I procrastinate. In my biology class though I remember being interested in the whole function of the body, but I’m scared that I wont be “med school material” or good enough. I don’t see myself being anything but a surgeon in the future, although I’ve changed my mind a few times, I’m very sure this is what I want to do. I am just feeling a bit discouraged honestly, and scared as well. Help? Also, Mayo Clinic?! Girl!!! Congratulations!! You’re a fortunate one. Oh and by the way, your videos make me happy!
Sheema says
Hi Andrea!
Thank you so much for your lovely videos. I watched them all & was so moved by them! I am an IMG & preparing for usmle step 1 exam. I just started to make questions from FA , “sandwich & Hotdog” as you said!
Andrea Tooley says
That is great!! Good luck with everything! Keep me updated okay?!
Sheema says
Thanks so much once again! I would feel honored to update you! 🙂
fatemeh says
HI dear ANDREA…
my name is fatemeh . i am 15 years old . i live in iran and i am a highschool student . my major is biology in my highschool . and i really love biology . i enjoy it . a day i was looking for some videos aboat medical schools . i saw your videos that time . i downloaded them . and i do your advices on my biology studings .now for some lessons i fold a paper in my notebook then i write the question in one side and the answers on the other side . it can help me to learn fast and i can remember them easily . thank you . i really try to become a doctor . i wish to go on my studing in harvard medical school . accepting for medical school in iran is so hard . there is a really hard test for it . it called ‘ konkour ‘ . i am really happy aboat that you have a web site .
i love you .
fatemeh
Abdallah Anwar says
Hi Andrea,
Just found your blog today, loved it! Very impressed with how you found a balance between updating your blog and going through medical school. I just completed an MBA program myself but unlike you wasn’t able to keep up with writing a blog.
Also, thank you for all the useful information. I’ll be sure to check back here often.
Andrea Tooley says
Thanks so much!
Emily says
Hi 🙂
So so glad I found this blog! I’m a student from the UK, about to start medical school in September. Although it’s obviously quite different in the way we’re taught medicine over here, I’d ultimately like to move to the US when I’m fully qualified. It’s great to read from the perspective of a US med student/ graduate and I really feel as though I can get a true representation of life as a doctor in the US. Thank you for being here! 🙂
Emily x
Wonders of a Fairytale
Andrea Tooley says
Thank you Emily!
Brittany says
Hi Andrea, I didn’t know you lived in Evansville!!! I go to college in Evansville, the University of Evansville. I actually wanted to ask you about that. I just messaged you through YouTube. Do you think your experience at Butler helped you in applying to med school and during med school? I just finished my freshman year end I loved it and it went great but I’m paying for college on my own and I will have massive debt when I graduate. I am considering transferring to a branch of Indiana University near my home town. Do you think a larger, public school will make it harder when applying to med school or during med school? Did you notice a difference from the students who went to large universities and small private school students?
Andrea Tooley says
Hi Brittany! My husband when to UE and I went to Harlaxton in college!! Love UE 🙂 I don’t really think the college matters. I think whatever environment is best for you and helps you to do the best in your classes is the right thing to pick. Some people love big schools and some do better at smaller schools. Of course, an Ivy League school will help you get into med school more than other schools, but in general I don’t think it matters.
Brittany says
I have heard such great things about Harlaxton. I have some friends there now and I am so jealous of their Instagram pictures haha. It’s so hard to decide where I will do best. Thank you for your advice! I feel so much better about either school I pick
Fatima says
I don’t know when you gonna read this, but you practically saved my life. Turning me into an ‘active’ learner. Thank You. Hope so see you in future, when I’l be an Oncologist. 🙂 Insha Allah 🙂
Andrea Tooley says
I’m so glad you’re an active learner!! Congratulations! I’m sure you will make a fantastic oncologist!
Fatima Bhatti says
Thank you so much, so nice of you 🙂 and I told my friends about your blog and “my med students” really like it. 🙂 Stay Happy 🙂
Andrea Tooley says
Oh thank you!!
Natalie says
Hi Andrea!
Im currently going into my third year at the University of South Florida and your blog has helped re-inspire me over and over again. I want to do early decision just like you did and I was wondering if you could do a post or video about it? You are an amazing role model, thanks for all your posts and time!
Anthony Llabres says
Hello,
I just found your blog today after searching youtube for FNP information. I am 50 now and retired from the FAA. I have a Biology Degree from the late 1980’s and a small business as a Health Coach. Currently I am in Nursing School and was trying to decide on Med School or Family Nurse Practitioner. After watching your last interview, I have decided on FNP. Appreciate the videos and blog.
Be well,
Anthony
FDNofFlorida.com
merlin thomas says
Hey andrea….ur so lovely…happy to read and see all your videos…..i wuld like u to make a video on how to prepare 4 mle….it wuld b very helpful…..
Rahul Dawani says
Thank u so much,,for providing such valuable experiences of yours,they are very helpful for all med students all around the world.
I am a final year medical student,studying at Pakistan,could you please guide me about international clinical rotations in USA.
Looking forward for your Reply…
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Monique says
Hi there,
I want to be a vet or a doctor. I don’t know which. I love working with people and animals. I want to do a bit of surgery. I will be taking out a big student loan so I will need a good paying job. Any suggestions?
Thanks
Andrea Tooley says
Shadow both fields and see which you can see yourself doing for your entire career!