Radford's Student Health Center Michael Beall | Guest Writer
| Published 12/12/03
Graphic By: Jonelle C. Thackston
The Student Health Center is a valuable source of care giving for all
Radford students and faculty. Through knowledge and awareness, the
Student Health Center strives to prevent the spread of illnesses and to
keep everyone in the community in their utmost physical condition.
As I come to visit Radford's scenic fields and trails, I don't forget to
stop by the Student Health Center to receive my long-awaited meningitis
shot. Looking down from the gravel-worn side street right off Main, I
make my way up a short wall leading up to the side doors of the
grandiose Moffett Hall. Getting closer to the door, I begin to observe
the cigarette butts in the oval shaped silver bin alongside the Radford
green benches. Further to the right, in the midst of the morning fog,
there are bike racks full of assorted locked up bicycles. Now, I finally
stand in front of the main entrance to the Student Health Services
Center.
Bravely, I open the heavy, cream colored metal door. Once inside, I
stumble through another door and walk through it into the
crescent-shaped lobby. I notice the bright sky blue and Philadelphia
cream cheese white walls. To my left is an ample selection of various
new teen magazines and seven cloth-lined chairs.
While waiting I notice the 27-inch television set. This can be helpful
considering that the average wait for a walk-in is two to 3 hours long.
I start to look out the windows and notice the delicately-knitted blinds
or curtains.
Finally my name is called, and cautiously I begin to step towards the
amiable receptionists. At the same time, another student was given some
prescribed medicines for anxiety and depression. The nurse seemed to be
very informative about the medicine. She explained the logistics and
basic mechanics for the daily amount of usages to be consumed.
Then the receptionist, Judi Collins, began to walk me to my awaiting
room. I asked, "Does it hurt that bad?"
She responded, "Michael, just don't think about it too much,
everything's going to be A-OK."
I suddenly feel pangs of anxiety as my gaze glosses over various office
machines and supplies at the main reception desk. However the phone
rings, and the young receptionist's southern accent sooths my emotion
filled head. While I sat in one of the seven exam rooms, I spot a side
room called, "Self Help." It contains two new Compaq desktop computers
and informative brochures which discuss healthful tips like routine
check-ups.
Now at the back of the building, I am placed in exam room #4. In this
unique and brightly lit room I browse around and try not to think about
my pending meningitis shot. I notice vials and needles are neatly tucked
in the top drawer, along with newly packaged latex gloves.
Time flies by like a bee buzzing by my face; before I knew it, the nurse
was finished giving me the shot. Walking back to the front end I notice,
through a set of doors, rows upon rows of stacked tables compiled of
thousands of new prescriptions and allergy medicines, etc. Aware that
the Health Center can be very busy at times, I make a mental note to
that the Student Health Center closes at 6 p.m.
Before I am able to leave, I fill out the appropriate paperwork. During
this lengthy process, a cheerful nurse on duty writes down some
important information like my Social Security number and date of birth.
Finally, I am now done. Now completely relaxed, I find my way out the
door which seems heavier than before. As I walk out, the receptionists
turn to me and say, "Have a nice day, Michael."
Whether you just need to pick up your prescriptions or have the flu, the
Student Health Center is the cure-all for your health needs. You may be
nervous or afraid to go, but don't wait. Use your time wisely and
acknowledge help when it is offered.
The Health Center is opened Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. On
Tuesday, it opens at 9:30 a.m.
___
Michael wants to be "Van Wilder."
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