Weekly blog 2025-04-04

This week in Biomed was intense but incredibly eye-opening. One of the most impactful parts of the week was the Mass Casualty Drill at South Alabama, where we simulated a response to a mass shooting. The scene was chaotic and extremely realistic, from the fake injuries to the urgency of emergency personnel rushing in. I played a victim with a laceration to the neck and excessive bleeding. Even though I was conscious and aware, I felt very anxious, which made the scenario feel even more real.

During the scene, I was labeled as “red”, meaning I was in critical condition and needed immediate attention. I was the first person transported to the hospital, which added to the intensity of the moment. It was overwhelming at first, but I greatly appreciated how first responders have to stay calm and make split-second decisions to save lives. The drill really helped me understand the importance of proper triage and clear communication under pressure.

Another big part of the week was practicing my presentation in front of someone. I thought I was ready, but when I actually spoke everything out loud, I noticed a few areas where I needed to improve—like slowing down, making better eye contact, and avoiding filler words. It was a little uncomfortable being watched and critiqued, but it ended up being a really helpful experience. It showed me where I needed to sharpen my delivery and helped build my confidence.

Overall, this week challenged me in all the best ways. I learned how critical teamwork and fast decision-making are in emergency scenarios, and I made real progress on my public speaking skills. These experiences definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, but they also made me feel more prepared for what’s ahead.