On August 16, we had our first Tweetchat! It was a strange experience, since I never used Twitter to communicate with my professors before, unlike Facebook messenger. The hashtag for this was #CDUCM. I felt awkward putting my opinions out into the open like that about topics such as my goals in life. Doctor Madamba eased us into it by starting off with introductions. I was surprised when I received a reply from her! From there, it became somewhat easier to tweet and share my thoughts on the questions she asked us. We shared our vision, mission, and goals. We were also asked if we thought we were in the right place. I replied with my plans for the future and how I would try and achieve them. I also said that I was sure Cebu Doctors’ University has and always will be the place for me. The third question asked us how CDU would help us attain our own goals and those of the program outcome. The method of problem based learning and the small group discussions are a very good way to reach both outcomes. Finally, as a closing question, Doctor Madamba inquired if we had any thoughts regarding out visions and how we would deal with the future obstacles we face. Of course, medicine is not an easy journey. Like with everything else in life, you have to stay focused and passionate. I believe that will carry me through this long road.
The following day, another Tweetchat was held, this time with the hashtag #HealthXPh. There were 3 questions regarding research. When asked why research is important, I answered that it answers so many of our questions and that it expands our level of knowledge. I know CDU has a conducive environment for research since it has a great library and a laboratory. In all honesty, however, I think some of our apparatuses could be improved but that’s not an urgent matter. Doctor Madamba’s pig, Pinky, asked the final question: what needs can you identify in your areas that need research? My reply to Pinky was that I wanted to study and contribute to the topic of mental health because I feel the Philippines lacks understanding towards this aspect of our health. In the last 5 minutes, I shared my concluding thoughts on research and said that I hoped to enjoy it more than I did when I was doing my undergraduate studies. I also got a reply from a doctor emphasizing the equal importance of asking the right questions and finding the right answers!
The questions were always very thought provoking so I was able to enjoy answering them. My favorite aspect of the Tweetchat would have to be all the interactions happening online. I would see tweets from my classmates and friends as well as other professionals who joined in. It felt nice when my thoughts and tweets got noticed because I felt heard. I look forward to more online interactions with professionals in various fields and experiences!
glasses with classes 