Jayda Harris - Preparing for and taking a professional certification exam (6 points)

Recently, I was awarded a scholarship in order to become a Medicaid-certified doula. During this experience, I have been learning all aspects of doula training, including its history, the physiology of childbirth, the different types of doulas, and how to maintain my certification. Strengths of this event include the ability to engage in meaningful discussions with my doula instructor and my peers in my cohort. In small breakout sessions, we role-play and act out different scenarios we may face as doulas, showcasing what we have learned in the course so far. Additionally, we watched several videos related to class content, which helped me retain the information learned in class. Another strength is that we have weekly exams and homework assignments to help us prepare for the Medicaid Doula Certification exam to become certified as a Medicaid doula in Maryland. A weakness of this training is that it is mainly virtual, with live online sessions and one day of hands-on CPR training. This event could be improved in the future by making the entire course in person, so we can have more hands-on experiences and build stronger relationships with our cohort. 

This activity connects to other experiences and knowledge I have gained through my work in maternal and child health. This activity would help expand my knowledge base in maternal and child health and help me practice as an emotional and physical support liaison for the birthing person. Additionally, like other experience I understand the importance of having exceptional interpersonal and oral communication skills, since as a doula, the most important part of the job is to actively listen and communicate with your client and ensure that their needs are relayed to the healthcare team in charge of the birthing process. Some trends I have identified are that you have to be empathetic and an active listener when engaging with the lived experiences of others. I understand that in these types of activities, patient/client privacy needs to be ensured. 

This activity has influenced my goals and aspirations by inspiring me to become involved in birth work and to be a listening ear for expectant mothers. This activity has pushed me even more to become an OB/GYN and provide healthcare and resources to underserved communities. Becoming a doula also allows me to get hands-on experience in understanding how to care for the mother and baby holistically, before I learn the medical standards to treat and help with childbirth. To build on this experience and after obtaining my certification, I will help 4+ families throughout their birthing journey. I will ensure that the birthing person feels comfortable and that their birth plan comes into fruition. Additionally, I will continue studying for my MCAT to go to medical school and become an OB/GYN.

- By Jayda Harris