Shirag Shemmassian

Helping students get into America's top colleges

[Physician on FIRE @PhysicianOnFIRE]

Choosing a medical specialty is complicated. In addition to being 4 years older at the start of residency with new personal considerations, you must decide not only how and where to spend the next 3 to 7 years, but also the lifestyle you’ll enjoy.

https://t.co/GfFIrZKAbp

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

My new guest article on Physician on Fire!

[Physician on FIRE @PhysicianOnFIRE]

How to Choose a Medical Specialty https://t.co/GfFIrZKAbp

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A4: Praise effort, and do not criticize unwillingness. That said, it's important to push kids who aren't putting in their best effort. There can often be a fine line between high expectations and too much pressure #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A2: Things to consider: Physical development, expressed interest, observation of skills. There's no time threshold after which it's a good idea #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A1: What I'll add: sacrifice, time management #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A8 (2/2): However, it has to be used responsibly. Parents and educators have to teach kids fundamentals of how to use these technologies appropriately since they change and move so quickly #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A8 (1/2): Social media offers an incredible opportunity for students to share ideas without someone else diluting their message. #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A3: Offer options that center around student strengths, not just currently available clubs or initiatives #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A1: It allows educators to serve students better, which is the ultimate goal. #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

Thanks for having me, @educationnation #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A9: Model it for them and encourage to take thoughtful risks.

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A7: mentors tend to have bigger networks than peers. If they don't know the answer to a question, they can refer #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

By asking questions and being non-judgmental. What does the student want to do vs. what they've been told they should? Why? #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A10 Take it one step at a time, and enjoy the journey! #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A7: Reinforce positive behaviors, don't just focus on the negative ones. Lend a listening ear, it's key to building trust. #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A5: Health center, counseling center, gym, office for students with disabilities, registrar #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A3: Parents: Not respecting autonomy; Students: forming poor habits (studying, eating, sleeping) #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A2: Just let your student know you're available to them. No need to push too hard. #ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

A1: Important friendships made, understanding how classes work, figuring out your place in school
#ToolkitTalk

[Shirag Shemmassian @shemmassian]

Ready for this! #ToolkitTalk