One of the greatest things about the University of Michigan and Ann Arbor itself is that there is ALWAYS something to do. By something I don’t just mean going to the mall, a coffee shop, or the movies (although you can certainly do those things as well). Rather, I am referring to school wide and community wide events. This week, for example, we have the Minority Health Conference on Saturday (organized by PHSAD- Public Health Students of African Decent at the School of Public Health), and the Shamrocks and Shenanigans 5k (organized by the local Irish Pub Conor O’Neills).
The first event, I have heard, is one of the most interesting events at SPH, and completely student run. This year’s theme is “Bridging the Gap: Addressing Health Disparities by Translating Research into Public Health Practice,” and will have a variety of different speakers and panelists. I would suggest for everyone to go. I am bummed I can’t make it this year, but you will get a full report from Carrie, who will be attending.
The reason why I can’t make it to the conference is that a friend of mine (some friend!) convinced me to sign up for my first 5k. 5k you say isn’t so bad? Two girls in HMP just ran a marathon over spring break, granted, I shouldn’t complain. But, let me remind you: I am not really a runner. Besides being terrified, I am also nervous that I will make it to the finish line walking at full speed (full speed meaning probably crawling on all fours) instead of running. If I make it, you will find proof of it on this very blog!
So, it is indeed a dilemma that we have to choose between events and activities that we really want to do. I’d still rather have the choice out of so many options, than no options at all. That is why I love Ann Arbor and the University. Some other events that are coming up and you shouldn’t miss: A lecture on why stress and depression can be deadly on March 17, and the 2009 Doctoral Health Student Symposium on March 18-19 through SPH, as well as Building a Better Food System in Southeastern Michigan: Women’s National Farm and Garden Association on March 12, and “Chocolate: Food of the Gods”: Culinary Historians of Ann Arbor on March 15. The chocolate event might not be the best Public Health lecture- but lets face it, everyone likes chocolate.
Paz is Peace 