Alison Armstrong’s Advice for Better Relationships

Chiropractic consultant and former research assistant Yola Dabrowski spends her personal time pursuing interests such as therapeutic hikes and live classical music. While residing in Poland, Yola Dabrowski developed a love of the country’s folklore.

One of the most well-known characters from Polish folklore is the Wawel Dragon. The legend originates from the 13thcentury and is based on the real Wawel Castle, which is situated in the city of Krakow. According to the tale, a dragon lived underneath the castle. In one popular version of the story, King Krakus promised his daughter’s hand to anyone who could slay the dragon.

While many failed, a young shoemaker came up with the idea to poison the dragon by stuffing a sheepskin with sulfur. Today, the story of the Wawel Dragon attracts visitors to the dragon’s cave in Wawel Castle. A statue commemorating the slaying of the dragon sits in front of nearby Wawel Cathedral. The bronze statue is fitted with a natural gas blowtorch and appears to breathe out fire.

 

University of Michigan Helps Residents Prepare for Cataract Surgery

While attending the University of Michigan working towards a bachelor’s in biology, Yola Dabrowski spent two years as a research assistant at the college. In this position at the university's Kellogg Eye Center, Yola Dabrowski helped researchers set up labs, maintain equipment, and perform a host of related activities.

The Kellogg Eye Center is a nationally recognized institution for research and vision care. Recently, the center incorporated a phacoemulsification wet lab for a course to prepare residents for cataract surgery.

The hands-on training program is believed to be an integral step in preparing residents for surgery. The program prepares residents by getting them used to surgical techniques and working in the operating room.

The program offers a variety of courses geared toward residents' specific skill sets. For example, first-year students learn about basic operating room procedures such as putting on a gown and gloves without becoming contaminated.

While getting residents accustomed to the operating room is important, the program also fosters a warm environment that encourages students to interact with staff. Residents are encouraged to approach physicians at any time regarding any questions or concerns they might have.