PREMEDLIFE
TM
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
THE MAGAZINE FOR PREMEDICAL STUDENTS
TOP 10 CITIES FOR
MEDICAL
SCHOOL
Find Out Which Cities Made Our List for the Best Places to Attend Medical School
SchoolSpotlight
Drexel University College of Medicine
+
We’re Just Not That Into You
6 reasons why medical schools reject applicants
Post Finals Detox
2r 1 0 2ummed
S eMe st Pr am Li r ! ProngcludedS I AGE 34 P
Preparing for the Spring semester
Especially This Specialty
Becoming a nocturnist
Yoga Poses for Premeds p.14 | Things Your Interviewer Won’t Say p.38 | Hand-Delivered Acceptances p.8
TheFitnessGroup
For fitness tips, exercise tutorials, health news, events, and workout programs check out The Fitness Group at www.healthandwellness.weebly.com
CONTENTS
January/February 2012
www.premedlife.com
38
32
FEATURES Top 10 Cities for Medical School| 16 Find out which cities made our list for the best places to attend medical school
We’re Just Not That Into You| 32 Ever wonder why medical schools reject applicants? Here are 6 reasons why some don’t cut it
DEPARTMENTS School Spotlight| 29 Get a glimpse into what the State University of New York Upstate Medical University has to offer Especially This Specialty | 37 Find out what being a Nocturnist is all about and what it will take to become one
16
IN EVERY ISSUE Newsbites| 8 Recent news & information relevant to students applying to medical school The Goods| 72 Gadgets & gizmos to keep you entertained. From a coffee plant to cool bookends, these items are sure to make you smile. In The Stacks| 75 Books to inspire you or provide you with advice along your journey to medical school Better Life, Better You| 76 Advice & tips for taking care of yourself to make it through your hectic pre-med life
30
-New Year’s Resolutions: Tips for a Healthier 2012 -Top 5 Time-Sucks HEY, COFFEE LOVERS - Check out The Goods to find out how you can grow your very own coffee plant!
p.72
College 101| 82 Here are some things that every student attending college should know
IN THIS ISSUE Yoga for Premeds | 14 Poses to boost brain power and reduce stress
!
Exclusively on the Web PreMedLife magazine provides a host of features, covering everything from getting into medical school to tips for acing the MCAT, promoting the optimal status and candidacy for pre-medical students. Visit www.premedlife.com often to get online exclusive articles covering the topics that pre-med students care about
Post Finals Detox | 30 Preparing yourself for the Spring semester
5 Things Your Interviewer Won’t Say| 38 What your medical school interviewer is thinking but won’t say to you
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 3
publisher from the
PREMEDLIFE the magazine for premedical students www.premedlife.com
Publisher/CEO | Sheema Prince Executive Director/COO | Jonathan Pearson EVP, Operations | Monique Terc Managing Editor | Monica Lee Assistant Editor | Fred Matthias Digital Editor | Donald Gibbons Contributing Writers |Korinne Kubena Belock, Gloria Davis, Jessica Freedman, MD, Loretta Hines, Anne McGrath, Randy Newman, Dave O’Leary, Rachel Smith, Maya Vadiveloo, MS, RD, Alex Yu Production Coordinator | Shawn Klein Social Media Manager | Tammy Li Interns | Bruce Thompson, Nancy Pomales, Kelly Sanchez, Tracey Michaelson, Mara McGee, Kevin Weber, Gary Hill, Tashaun Robinson Find us on Twitter @premedlife Find us on Facebook.com/premedlife
I'm all for making New Year's resolution, but this year I'm adding an extra which is to actually keep my resolutions. Let's face it, not many people who say they're going to do something for the New Year end up following through with it. It's important that you stay committed to the promises that you make to yourself. If last year wasn't such a great year for you, the dawn of 2012 can be an opportunity for you to make things right. And if last year wasn't such a bad year, make 2012 better than last year. The point is - just do it! There's no greater satisfaction, for me that is, than setting a goal and reaching it. And don't underestimate the power of your imagination. As the saying goes, "whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve." So if you're able to see yourself strutting your stuff in your signature scrubs let your imagination run wild because it will help motivate you to do what you have to do to reach your dreams. So as I picture myself pressing the period button on the keyboard to end off my New Year's publisher's letter, I have to admit that I once again feel a little sense of accomplishment.
Sheema
Sheema Prince Publisher
4 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
HERE’S HOW TO REACH US... Kisho Media, LLC | PreMedLife Magazine P.O. Box 7049| New York, NY 10116 Main Office (347) 231 - 6429
HAVE A STORY IDEA? Email us at editor@premedlife.com
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INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING OR PARTNERING WITH PREMEDLIFE? Email us at advertise@premedlife.com PreMedLife magazine is published six times per year by Kisho Media, LLC. and copies are provided to select colleges and universities free of charge. The information in PreMedLife magazine is believed to be accurate, but in some instances, may represent opinion or judgment. Consult your pre-med advisor with any questions you may have about the medical school admission process and related topics. Unless otherwise noted, all photographs, artwork, and and may not be duplicated or reprinted without express written permission from Kisho Media, LLC. PreMedLife magazine and Kisho Media, LLC. are not liable for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers. PreMedLife Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising. All inquires may be sent to: Kisho Media, LLC. P.O. Box 7049, New York, NY 10116. Or call (347) 231-6429 or email info@premedlife.com.
PreMedLife Magazine don’t worry IT’S FREE... (we know you’re probably broke)
Subscribe Today For more information about PreMedLife Magazine, visit us online at www.premedlife.com
student advisor y board THE PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE STUDENT ADVISORY BOARD IS AN EXEMPLARY GROUP OF PREMED STUDENTS from a variety of backgrounds who have a wide range of accomplishments. They will help keep us informed about what we need to know to make PreMedLife magazine the go-to resource for aspiring doctors. If you have any questions for any of our board members email us at info@premedlife.com >>>
Diana Altamirano
Alexandra Massa Neuroscience @ Stonehill College Alexandra is currently a volunteer at her local hospital’s emergency department. She is interested in providing care to third-world countries where access to medical supplies are limited.
Linda Mukumbuta
Post Baccalaureate @ Georgia Gwinnett College Diana is a non-traditional student with a business degree. She is currently taking science classes as a pre-med post-baccalaureate student.
Biology & Public Health @ University of Texas, San Antonio Linda is a 19-year-old junior who is currently affiliated with 4 pre-med organizations. She says a career in medicine is truly her calling in life.
Tamara Edgin
Tiffany Que-Smith
Biology @ University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville Tamara is currently working towards an associates degree and plans to transfer to Lyon College, a four-year university.
Art & Design @ San Jose State University Tiffany is a non-traditional student who translates her thoughts into art which luckily for her, is extremely helpful when studying.
Jaime Garcia
Touria Rguig
International Economics @ University of Washington Jamie is the first in his family to attend college. He has gained experience in the medical field and is currently an emergency room volunteer.
Biochemistry @ University of Texas, Austin Touria is a honors student who speaks 6 languages. She’s also an author on a research paper published in Synthetic Metals Journal.
Ola Hadaya
Will Smith
Middle Eastern Studies @ Rutgers University, New Brunswick Ola is a 17-year-old student who is in the process of applying to medical school. She speaks 3 languages.
Post Baccalaureate @ California State University, Sacramento Will is a non-traditional pre-med student with a degree in comparative religion. He has worked as an ER tech.
Chesha Hayter
Chandler Stisher
Biomedical @ Southern Oregon University Chesha is a non-traditional student and a mother, who after starting her education later in life has learned many things.
Biology @ University of Texas, Austin Chandler is the first in his family to attend a 4-year university and has had aspirations of becoming a doctor since he was 11 years old.
Hillary Lee
Marina Zeledon
Neural Science @ New York University Hillary will start on the pre-med tract in Fall 2012. She says her transition from Missouri is an experience she can share to help others like herself.
Biology @ Potsdam State University Marina likes to read, research, and talk about medical school journeys with current doctors. She is on her school’s equestrian team and has a strong passion to become a doctor.
6 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
THE TWEET PEEK FOLLOW US ON TWITTER.COM @PREMEDLIFE FOR DAILY UPDATES LIKE THESE OPEN BOOK POLICY "With few exceptions, medicine is open-book" say a grp of profs "all exams in all subjects should b open-book" bit.ly/rJIUHT QUOTE TO MOTIVATE "Do what you HAVE to do NOW, so you can do what you WANT to do LATER" DOLLA BILLS YA’LL @uabmedicine will offer new $10,000/year scholarship to encourage med students to go into primary care field bit.ly/teA5ze MAKING ORGO FUN Maybe orgo wouldn't be so bad if every class were like an episode of "The Magic School Bus" GETTING IN Tips for #MedSchool Application Success: Be sure your application shows who you are now, and not when you were a child GOOD READ Calling yourself Doctor and what that now means is.gd/glOsLL HASHTAGGING Channeling my inner surgeon playing the game "Operation" #Primaryschoolmemories Wait...how does removing all the organs make u a winner? PREMED SWAG Don't be a book-smart student with no social skills. Premeds can have #swag too!
PreMedLife Magazine don’t worry IT’S FREE... (we know you’re probably broke)
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NEWSBITES
>>> Recent news & information relevant to students applying to medical school
Many Pre-meds Get Turned off by Science in College, Study Shows According to an article published in the New York Times, studies have found that roughly 40 percent of students planning engineering and science majors end up switching to other subjects or fail to even get their undergraduate degree at all. According to data put out by the University of California at Los Angeles, that number jumps to as much as 60 percent when pre-medical students, who usually have the strongest SAT scores and high school science preparation, are included. "We're losing an alarming proportion of our nation's science talent once the students get to college," says Mitchel J. Chang, an education professor at UCLA who has done research on the topic.
Med School Hand-Delivers Admissions Acceptance Letters
Apparently, educators are racking their brains trying to figure out just how to keep students interested as they move from elementary and secondary school into college. Remember how much fun your science class was back in sixth grade? Well, as it turns out, the younger generation of students have a great deal of fun soaking eggs in vinegar to get the shell to dissolve and testing attraction with a set of magnets. "The excitement quickly fades as students brush up against the reality of the math-science death march," said David E. Goldberg, an emeritus engineering professor. "Freshman in college wade through a blizzard of calculus, physics and chemistry
To break the news that applicants have gain admission to their school, officials at the University of Michigan Medical School hand-delivered acceptance letters to students in Ann Arbor, Dallas, Boston, Washington, D.C., and East Lansing. Since school officials were already going to be in those cities taking care of other business, Robert Ruiz, who is the medical school's admission director, thought it would be good for the school to maximize its resources and brighten the day of an unsuspecting admit. "It's all about having a little bit of fun with an otherwise stressful process," Ruiz commented. The school, which is already heavily invested in social media, has an active admission Twitter account and a Facebook page solely for admitted students.
8 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
in lecture halls with hundreds of other students. And then many wash out," Goldberg told the New York Times. Difficult and complex by nature, the pre-medical major presents a number of factors, including tough freshman courses, that quickly translates to deterrents among the student population. But there is hope for those pre-medical students who are thinking about bailing on their dreams of becoming a doctor because for those students who do not already know it - being a premedical student does not mean that one has to be married to a science major. There are tons of students who pursue other majors and still go off to apply and enter medical school too.
They regularly post questions, tips, and polls to keep admits connected to the school and updated on deadlines. In addition, admitted students also get electronic birthday cards emailed to them on their birthday. Ruiz partly attributes the rise in applications to the school's embracing social media. "The social media stuff is helping, to be honest," Ruiz said of the large applicant pool. In addition, the school holds regular online chats to answer any questions that prospective students may have. “The chats and social media make the application process, which can be intimidating, easier on potential students, who spend significant money on the application and, if granted an interview, travel to the school,” Ruiz noted.
NEWSBITES AAMC's Newly Released Guide Gives Premeds Preview of Revised MCAT For the pre-medical students who are planning on taking the MCAT in 2015, the Association of American Medical College ( AAMC) released what they call a blueprint for the new exam. The guide, which describes the new exam's content and format, outlines the exam's foundational concepts, content categories, and scientific inquiry and reasoning skills. So what's different about the new exam? Here are three things that are changing: The natural sciences sections of MCAT2015 reflect recent changes in medical education. They test the concepts in biology, general and organic chemistry, biochemistry, and physics that medical school faculty rate as most important to entering students' success. Though undergraduate course offerings differ by institution, these concepts are covered in many undergraduate schools in introductory sequences in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics and in first-semester biochemistry courses. MCAT2015 includes a section on the social and behavioral sciences: Psychological, Social
and Biological Foundations of Behavior. This section tests a student’s knowledge of important introductory psychology and sociology concepts, as well as the introductory biology concepts that relate to mental processes and behavior. The addition of this section to the exam recognizes the importance of socio-cultural and behavioral determinants of health and health outcomes. The Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills section is also new. This section asks students to analyze, evaluate, and apply information provided by passages from a wide range of social sciences and humanities disciplines. It does not require specific knowledge of these disciplines, but it tests the analysis and reasoning skills you need for medical school, and may prompt you to read broadly as you prepare. Along with many others, passages about ethics and philosophy, cross-cultural studies and population health are included. This latest preview of the new MCAT was released on Nov. 1. For access visit http://bit.ly/vnn0nr
Baylor Offers Medical Spanish Course for Premeds
The rising Hispanic population in the US has prompted a Baylor University linguist to develop a course for students pursuing health careers. Dr. Karol Hardin, an assistant professor of Spanish at the university, says that she tailored the course to meet the crucial need for medical professionals to cross language and cultural barriers. The classes are taught almost completely in Spanish, with emphasis on oral proficiency and comprehension rather than simply memorizing medical terminology. "While some students may establish practices overseas or become medical missionaries in Spanish-speaking countries," Dr. Hardin notes, "those who stay in the United States would be wise to have a grasp on conversation medical Spanish to serve Hispanic patients, some of who may speak little or no English. Dr. Hardin says the undergraduate method she uses for her course is better than textbook or online approaches that some students may pursue on their own. "For example, while translating "cardiovascular" in Spanish is excellent, and proper verb conjugation is something to strive for, it is equally - or more - impor-
tant to correctly greet a patient or to learn to soften bad news," Dr. Hardin explained. "Your grammar can be poor, but if you're not polite, patients won't come back to you. Baylor's program began with two intermediate classes for those who plan to enter the medical field, with 25 students each, and Baylor added a third class for Fall 2012 to meet demand.
10 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
"I just want to be prepared," said Eric Cline, a Baylor junior who wants to be a surgeon. "I'm already pretty fluent in Spanish, and this is a review for me in grammar. But the emphasis is to cultivate a personal relationship with patients, and talking to them in their native language is more personal." For more information about Baylor University visit www.baylor.edu.
NEWSBITES
New Medical School MEDICAL Says Later for Lectures SCHOOL If Jal Jenson, founding dean of Western Michigan University, gets his way students attending the planned School of Medicine will spend no more than an hour a day in lectures instead of six or seven hours - and introduce them into a clinical setting for hands-on learning within the first few weeks of their first year. "The traditional model for medical education with 200 or so students sitting in a hall lecture is very efficient, but not very effective," said Jenson. "We know that's not how students learn. Adults learn by experiential learning and we learn by getting involved."
The school, which plans to begin accepting applications from prospective students in early 2013, will grow to take in 80 students annually over a few years. "We're changing the model of education," Jenson said during a keynote address at a Business Review round table discussion. "We have a real chance (at WMU) to leapfrog and leap ahead." For more information about WMU School of Medicine visit www.wmich.edu/medicine.
PIPELINE Here’s a list of new medical schools that are being developed in the U.S.
CALIFORNIA NORTHSTATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF MEDICINE Rancho Cordova, California Anticipated TBA
WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE Kalamazoo, Michigan Anticipated Fall 2014
PALM BEACH MEDICAL COLLEGE Palm Beach, Florida Anticipated TBA
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE Riverside, California Anticipated Fall 2012
Colorado May Step Up to Fill Physician Gap with Brand New Medical School
twittertalk
To help fill a physician shortage expected to widen as national health reform takes hold, the University of Denver (DU) is considering the launch of a medical school. "To determine if the University could help to fill this serious health services gap, we are embarking on a study to determine the feasibility of opening a medical school here on the DU campus with a focus on training primary care physicians," said DU Chancellor Robert Coombe.
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
National studies estimate that the U.S. will be short 40,000 primary-care doctors by 2020 because of demands of health reform's expanded insurance coverage and the attraction of higher-paying specialties. According to a press release announcing the move, the creation of a medical school at the south Denver campus would bolster a DU visibility drive that has also built new business, law and fine-arts centers, and pushed Division I sports in recent years.
"Stress Management 101" should be a #medschool prereq too! Nearly 90% of docs feel stressed every day http://bit.ly/vmRPaU"
fe
@p
r
dli e m e
If you need to: Create an alter ego to deal with Organic Chem, like @nickiminaj created her alter ego Roman to deal with anger #premed For the nervous-wrecks before MCAT or interviews @uabmedicine: "Sweat and Tears" Battling excessive perspiration. http://j.mp/tIQJ1a"
Mount Pleasant, Michigan Anticipated Fall 2012
COOPER MEDICAL SCHOOL OF ROWAN UNIVERSITY Camden, New Jersey Anticipated Fall 2012
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, GREENVILLE Greenville, South Carolina Anticipated Fall 2012
QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE North Haven, Connecticut Anticipated Fall 2013 or 2014
UPDATED 10/2011
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 11
NEWSBITES In Tough Times, Medicine Still Very Attractive to Undergrads as Career With the number of first-time applicants to medical school reaching an all-time high in 2011, medicine, without a doubt, continues to be the career choice among undergraduate students According to new data released by the Association of American Medical Colleges, the number of first-time applicants to medical school reached an all-time high in 2011, increasing 2.6 percent over 2010 to 32,654. "This demonstrates without a doubt that medicine remains a very attractive career to undergraduates," said AAMC President and CEO Darrell G. Kirch, M.D. "We are very pleased that medicine continues to be attractive at a time when our health care system faces many challenges." DIVERSITY Data showed that medical school first-year enrollment increased by 3 percent over 2010 data, with 19,230 students entering the 2011 class. In addition, for the second year in a row, the total number of applicants and enrollees from most major racial and ethnic groups increased. "We are encouraged that the pool of medical school applicants and enrollees continues to be more diverse," said Dr. Kirch. "Given the health care needs of this nation, it is important that medical schools have high-quality applicants from across the board spectrum of racial and ethnic groups, because we need a health care system that can deliver high-quality care to this changing population.� GRADES & GPA With the average GPA and median MCAT score unchanged over last year, at 3.5 and 29, respectively, medical school applicants also remained academically competitive. "We certainly continue to attract exceptionally well-qualified individuals who have strong academic credentials," noted Dr. Kirch. COMMUNITY SERVICE With nearly 83 percent of applicants reporting volunteer experience in medical or clinical settings, community service has shown itself to be a top priority for both applicants and enrollees. In addition, 90 percent of enrollees said they hope to be involved in extracurricular community service while attending medical school. „
12 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
UC DAVIS DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY Pre-Medical Surgical Internship & Mentorship Program
The UC Davis Department of Surgery Pre-Medical Surgical Internship & Mentorship Program is a unique opportunity for pre-medical students to work with and be mentored by surgeons and physicians in the nationally recognized medical center. This program is not volunteering, but the ability to experience what surgeons do everyday. You will be with the physicians every step of their day when they are working and treating patients in the clinic, by the bedside, in the intensive care unit, Emergency Department, and right next to them in the operating room. This program is open to all pre-medical students regardless of school attended or grade level (graduates and returning students are welcome as well). This program seeks to foster a relationship between physicians and pre-medical students. There will be 3 cycles throughout the academic year that you can apply and participate.
For more information about the program: www.premedsurgery.org
Don’t just watch Grey’s Anatomy. Be a part of it!
www.premedsurgery.org Become a Fan: premedsurgery.org/facebook
Follow Us: twitter.com/premedsurg
YOGA FOR
premeds
You may be surprise what a little bit of yoga can do for as a premed. From energizing and recharging your over-worked brain to relieving stress and anxiety, there are many yoga poses that can benefit you. Here are six to get you started:
Standing Forward Bend
Calms the brain, Reduces fatigue and anxiety, Relieves headache and insomnia
Upward Salute
Helps relieve mild anxiety and fatigue
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Downward-Facing Dog
Upward-Facing Dog
Increases blood flow to the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression, Energizes the body, Relieves insomnia and fatigue
Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression, Energizes the body, Relieves headache, insomnia, back pain, and fatigue
Mountain Pose
Helps help develop the brain and concentration
Four-Limbed Staff Pose
Calms the mind by relieving from tension, anxiety and depression
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FEATURE ARTICLE
TOPTEN
CITIES FOR
DURING
MEDICAL SCHOOL
THESE ROUGH ECONOMIC TIMES, PROSPECTIVE MEDICAL STUDENTS CONSIDER
MANY FACTORS WHEN IT COMES TO DECIDING ON WHICH MEDICAL SCHOOL TO APPLY TO Here’s our list of cities which offer medical students the best overall experience outside of the classroom. Affordable housing, free activities, and a low cost-of-living may make the list of places where medical students who wish to pursue their dreams of becoming a doctor can still enjoy the perks of city life without the hefty price tag. Here are 10 U.S. cities that may offer students everything they need to stretch their student income (or lack thereof) and make their four years of medical school as enjoyable as possible. And of course, all of the cities on the list are home to at least one medical school. We began our search using the criteria which ranked a very important factor for many prospective medical students: money. And not money, in
terms of salary like many of these types of lists generally account for, but how much money prospective medical students would be able to save. So we looked at cities across the country which offered the lowest cost-of-living for its residents. We then refined our search by looking at factors of interest to the medical student population, such as rent affordability, access to public transportation (since owning a car is not such a budget-friendly idea), and number of free activities (when time permits to lower stress levels without spending much). Take a look. And let us know what you think with a reader comment. You told us your ideal city to attend medical school is affordable, fun, and easy to get around. We found 10 that fit the bill.>>>
PreMedLife Magazine don’t worry IT’S FREE... (we know you’re probably broke)
Subscribe Today For more information about PreMedLife Magazine, visit us online at www.premedlife.com
2012 BEST CITIES FOR M
1
OMAHA, NEBRASKA
Over the past 10 years, this city has transformed itself into a vibrant town that offers cheap cost of living, without skimping on the amenities. From free jazz and free movies to community theaters and small clubs, Omaha is bustling with tons cheap or free entertainment. Students who may wish to take a break from their studies don't have to worry about digging in their pockets to enjoy a quality event. And don't
worry about not having a car, the city's extensive trail system, which runs throughout the city, is perfect for walkers, runners, and bicyclists, who besides getting from place to place, may take advantage of this perk to burn off steam or stay in shape. The city's transit authority provides pubic bus services to hundreds of locations throughout the metro area.
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Cost-of-living: 90.3 (national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $625/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: Creighton University School of Medicine, University of Nebraska College of Medicine
MEDICAL SCHOOL >>>
2
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE The city that is ranked year after year as one of the most desirable places to live and work, made our list for one of the best cities for medical students to study too! Super friendly people brimming with Southern hospitality are just one of the perks that come along with attending medical school in Nashville. The city's cost of living is about 10% below the national average and the housing costs are even lower than the average, 28%. The city's low cost of living has attracted many and even as medical students graduate, the opportunities available through top employers like Vanderbilt University and Hospital Corporation of America, are making them stay put after graduation. And we must not forget to mention the city's free bus service called The Music City Circuit, which operates in downtown Nashville. While Nashville is best known for country music, the metro area offers many perks that go far beyond what many may think. Cost-of-living: 90.7 (national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $736/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: Meharry Medical College Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 19
2012 BEST CITIES FOR M
3
LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
While the pace of this city may be a bit slower than other cities, Little Rock can offer a little bit of everything. For the culturally apt student, this city has quite a trendy art scene and various venues offer year round performances of opera, cabaret, and jazz, as well as seasonal festivals and events. Residents can also take advantage of the largest park dedicated to the performing arts in the South and the city's zoo. The city has public bus service and downtown streetcars which service the downtown areas of Little Rock and North Little Rock. Oh, and for all of you who are interested, Little Rock was named the second cleanest city in America in 2011 by Forbes magazine.
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Cost-of-living: 94.1 (national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $640/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine
EDICAL SCHOOL >>>
4
CINCINNATI, OHIO
With a cost-of-living about 6% less than the national average, Cincinnati can offer students small-town affordability with big-city perks. Aside from its zoo, two major sports teams, and more than 5,000 acres of parks, the city also offers free music six days a week beginning in May and lasting through September each year. For students looking to spend time outdoors, the city's Web site claims that any city resident is within 1 mile of a park - how nice is that? Cost-of-living: 93.3 (national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $590/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 21
2012 BEST CITIES FOR M ’S TOR I D E ICK P
5
JOHNSON CITY, TENNESSEE Voted many times by Money Magazine as "the best place to live in the southeast," Johnson City is considered an economic hub which is largely fueled by East Tennessee State University and what's called the medical "Med-Tech" corridor, linked by the Johnson City Medical Center, Franklin Woods Community Hospital, ETSU's Gatton College of Pharmacy and ETSU's Quillen College of Medicine. And all of that nice medical stuff makes it an even better place for medical students to flock to. Add nice climate, affordable housing, and low cost of living - what more can a student ask for? Johnson City also has all of that good stuff plus the city can offer some of the nice perks that come along with living in the city like free art and music festivals. The city's public transportation system operates the BucShot, which is a system that serves the greater ETSU campus. Cost-of-living: 88.1(national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $577/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine
get published. write for us
If you consider yourself a good writer and would like a chance to have your article published in an issue of PreMedLife Magazine, we’re looking for student writers to submit articles. From your personal experiences as a pre-med student to living everyday life as a college student, we want to share your story with our readers. Or if you need an idea to write about - we’ve got tons of them. For more information about writing for PreMedLife Magazine, visit our Web site at www.premedlife.com or email us at info@premedlife.com.
MEDICAL SCHOOL >>>
6
COLUMBUS, OHIO
Ranked as one of the top 10 best big cities in the country to relocate, for medical students looking to begin their medical career, Columbus is another attractive place for future doctors. Far from just a place for kids, this city his home to a science museum which features interactive exhibits and IMAX movies, which we're sure some medical students might find interesting as well. And don't worry about needing a car to get around, bicycling as transportation is steadily increasing in the city with its relatively flat terrain and off-road bike paths. The city has a large student population so for all of the medical students fresh out of college, it may be nice to see others around the same age group as yourself. When summertime rolls around, residents can take
advantage of the free Shakespearean plays at the amphitheater in Schiller Park or the annual festivities at the Ohio State Fair. Cost-of-living: 90.1(national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $666/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: Ohio State University College of Medicine
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 23
2012 BEST CITIES FOR M
7
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA Both stable and affordable, Oklahoma City has experienced tremendous renovation. For those of you looking to go into biomedicine, the city has seen many life-science start-ups, including the Presbyterian Health Foundation Research Park, a 700,000 square foot space which has attracted an influx of innovative biomedical firms. If you can get over it being one of the most tornado-prone cities in the nation, Oklahoma City, boasts the second lowest media rent among large U.S. metro areas. If you do plan on driving, apparently the city's freeways are rarely congested with the "stop and go" commuter patterns of other major cities, and it is often said that one can get from any part of the metro area to downtown in 30 minutes or less by freeway. The city also features a bus and rail transit system from those looking to get around the area by ways other than driving. Cost-of-living: 89(national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $544/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: University of Oklahoma College of Medicine
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BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA Although you may not think of Birmingham when you think city, this is a place that you may not want pass judgement. As money continues to be invested into reconstructing the downtown area into a 24-hour mixed-used district, Birmingham has consistently been rated as one of America's best places to work and earn a living based in part on the relatively low living expenses. Aside from that, the city offers numerous activities when students may need something to do to relax like visit a gallery or museum in the area. And if you're looking for more artsy things to do to stimulate your brain after you've bombarded it with the sciences, the state is also home to a major ballet, opera, and symphony organizations. After graduation, medical students may just want to stay put - one study determined that Birmingham was second in the nation for building personal net worth, based on local salary rates, living expenses, and unemployment rates. Cost-of-living: 89.6(national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $645/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: University of Alabama School of Medicine
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MEDICAL SCHOOL >>>
9
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE
For students looking to spend as little as they can in medical school, one of the most attractive features of this city is how cheap it is to live there. "Memphis has, in other words, all the amenities that come with being the 20th-largest city in the U.S. but at a cost of living nearly 14% below the national metro average," according to the city's Web site. "For the majority of newcomers, that means more money for travel, leisure and hobbies, or putting away for a rainy day." From a vibrant downtown scene to a handful of bioscience assets, Memphis has plenty to offer to students attending medical school in the area. The major mode of public transportation used in Memphis operates both buses and trolleys - yes trolleys. And on the last Friday of each month, the trolley is free from 6-9pm and includes live entertainment and complimentary drinks as well as stops at fifteen different galleries. You can't top that. Cost-of-living: 87.3(national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $574/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: University of Tennessee Health Sciences College of Medicine
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LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY The "Horse Capital of the World" is also one of the best places for students looking to go to medical school in a city. The diverse cityscape and vibrant downtown area put Lexington on the map as a place that accounts for it landing in the 5th spot for the best city for Young Professionals in 2008. And if after moving there find yourself needing stick up for the lesser known city, for any students who move here, they'll be proud to say that Lexington was ranked 10th in a list of America's most educated cities with a population of more than 250,000, so there! In addition to the city's normal bus routes, the transit authority offers campus shuttle service on the University of Kentucky. The city's newest form of transportation, Colt Trolleys, is free and has a route which runs from the University of Kentucky. Can you say, bang for your buck? Cost-of-living: 89.1(national average 100) Avg 1br rental: $595/month Public transportation: 9 Free activates/events: 9 Medical schools located in this city: University of Kentucky College of Medicine
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 25
Advertorial
St. George's University Offers Program Choices to Medical Students St. George's University's School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies pioneered the concept of international medical education. St. George's has contributed nearly 11,000 physicians to the global health care system; these graduates have been licensed in all 50 United States and Canada and have practiced in over 45 countries across the world. The majority of St. George's medical students have come from the top 100 United States colleges and universities. Over 500 St. George's students came from Ivy League schools and nearly 4,000 graduated from universities in the US News & World Report's list of Top National Universities in 2011. St. George's US medical students may begin their Basic Sciences studies on the main campus in Grenada, or at the University's affiliate in the United Kingdom -- the Keith B. Taylor Global Scholars program, delivered at Northumbria University. Beyond the stand-alone MD degree, medical students at St. George's have the opportunity to pursue joint MD/MPH,
MD/MSc, and MD/MBA degrees. Students complete their clinical training in the University's 60+ affiliated hospitals and clinical centers in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. LEADING THE WAY IN MEDICAL EDUCATION St. George's was the first private medical school in the Caribbean, and first private institution in the region to be accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Health Professions. In 2010, SGU's US and Canadian medical students surpassed medical school students in the US and Canada with a 94% first time pass rate on the United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1. In fact, overall, SGU's first-time USMLE takers - students who were from 49 different countries - equaled the first time pass rate of 92% in the US and Canada for 2010. RESEARCH POSSIBILITIES Partnering with the nearby Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF), St. George's continues to advance public health and environmentally sustainable development through multidisciplinary research. WINDREF draws internationally recognized scholars and regional scientists and partners with prestigious North American, Caribbean, European, and African institutions in global research affecting the region, including medical and veterinary public health, marine and terrestrial biology, and ecology. The Foundation maintains a unique sci-
26 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
entific resource center at its research Institute on St. George's main campus. A MAJESTIC ENVIRONMENT
More than $250 million US was spent to create a beautiful, state-of-the-art campus, rivaling those of the most prestigious universities in the world. St. George's students are truly taken aback by the beauty of their physical accommodations. The sprawling campus includes 52 buildings spread out over 42 acres in a vibrant, tropical seaside location. St. George's True Blue campus provides all the amenities and technologically advanced facilities of a world-class institution, while offering beautiful scenery and majestic views of the Caribbean Sea. Information on the University is available at http://www.sgu.edu, and through YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter at StGeorgesU. Would-be American medical students may view their contemporaries at St. George's by visiting http://www.sgu.edu/us. „
©2011 St. George’s University
At St. George’s University, our job is to prepare you to do yours. On the 2010 USMLE Step 1, our first time test takers – from 49 countries – equalled the 92% pass rate of students at US and Canadian medical schools, while our US and Canadian students had a 94% first time pass rate. We’ve placed more doctors into the US healthcare system than two-thirds of US medical schools, and helped over 11,000 physicians get their start. So go big, push limits, and change medicine at the international center with students and faculty from over 140 countries – learn more about St. George’s University today.
Grenada, West Indies
US/Canada: 1(800)899-6337 ext. 9 1280 sgu.edu/future-students • SGUEnrolment@ sgu.edu
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SCHOOLSPOTLITE
Get a glimpse into what one medical school in the U.S. has to offer prospective students <<<
DREXEL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF MEDICINE Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Through an innovative approached aimed at educating future physicians as best as possible, Drexel University College of Medicine recognized that students have different learning styles and teaches its students based on how they learn best. Yes, that's right - to tackle the rigorous academic program that Drexel University offers, students have a choice of two curricular tracks based on different learning styles - the Interdisciplinary Foundations of Medicine (IFM) and the Program for Integrated Learning (PIL). If a student is one who is more for the traditional lecture style of teaching, then the school's IFM path would be the way to go. If the whole lecture-based curriculum seemed to work in college, then students who are accustomed to a single instructor teaching to a large group may opt for this track. In addition, students who study under the IFM track have the freedom to study independently outside of lecture and at their own pace. But it's not entirely lecture-based. Students also spend time working in laboratories, engaging in small group activities, conducting independent research projects, and giving presentations to fellow students. Throughout the first two years, communication, history taking, and physical exam skills are taught and experiences in a physician's office are part of the curriculum. On the other hand, for students who learn better in small groups than through traditional lectures only, the PIL track is a perfect match. Guided by faculty, students learn in a studentcentered, integrated, interactive format designed to help them master the traditional sciences basic to medicine. In addition, students address behavior sciences, community and preventive medicine, women's health, and principles of medical ethics, as well as communication, history-taking skills, and physical diagnosis. For students who choose the PIL track, during their first two years, students cover the basic sciences in a block format, with seven 10-week blocks over the two years. Each block focuses on several basic and behavior science topics at a time. When course material is introduced, it is presented to the students in a case-based learning format which means that whatever they are learning will be introduced in relation to a patient. Ultimately, the students will need to analyze and problem-solve in order to dissect a patient's case. According to the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Web site, "the cases provide a context for the course learning objectives and serve as challenging, motivating, enjoyable stimulus for
students to acquire, study, and apply this core knowledge.â&#x20AC;? And for all the pre-medical students who get nervous just thinking about having to work in a "small-group" setting, current students say that one does not have to be an outgoing, group learning kind of student to succeed in PIL. In fact, apparently, introverted students who struggle with presenting can get the most benefit from the PIL curricular style. While some students decide to do a trial run in each curriculum, others just know themselves too well and jump right into which track they know will work best for them. No matter which curriculum a student chooses, the design of both tracks are designed to provide them with adequate knowledge and exposure they need to prepare them for the USMLE Step 1 and the clinical years. After getting through the first two years, in the year to follow, students work with faculty members in a number of different settings and are devoted to required clinical clerkships in medicine, family medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery. In the final year, the curriculum is structured in the form of what the school calls "Pathways" - courses that give students a well-rounded educational experience with a focus on potential careers. These pathways allow each student to balance the structure and flexibility of his/her learning needs, prepares the student to enter postgraduate training with confidence, and maximize the guidance and counseling available from an advisor. Although tailoring to the students learning needs, both options focus on professional education to prepare students to pursue careers as either generalists or specialists. Drexel University COM has earned national recognition as an innovator in medication education and trains its students to learn how to think like a physician. To do this, within their first few weeks the school introduces first-year students to clinical experiences. But wait - there's more. Through the school's Medical Humanities program, students learn to frame issues in patient care within cultural, social and historical perspective. The school also has a one-year, tuition-free opportunity to "gain an edge" as a future doctor through a special program designed specifically to enhance what a student has already learned and foster their personal growth - how cool is that? For more information about Drexel University School of Medicine visit www.drexelmed.edu.
quick facts DEGREE(S) OFFERED: MD/PhD, MD/MPH, MD/MBA, MD/MS
SCHOOL TYPE Private
# OF APPLICANTS 12,548
# Applicants Interviewed 1,358
# Applicants Accepted 1,358
Cumulative GPA 3.58
Average MCAT Score 30.3
Most surprising undergraduate majors 2007-2010 Accounting, Architecture, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Comparative Literature, Dance, Film and Video, Hospitality Administration, International Relations, Journalism, Materials Engineering, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Public Policy, Religion, and Theater Arts.
Tuition $46,810 is the same for instate and out-of-state residents
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 29
SUPER PREMED
Interested in writing for PreMedLife magazine? Submit your article to info@premedlife.com.
The Post Finals Detox: Preparing Yourself for the Spring Semester When winter break finally arrives after a week of ramen, unhealthy amounts of coffee, and brutal all nighters, premed students finally get some time away from their textbooks and sub-par living conditions to focus on themselves and to give their brains a rest. The next three weeks are important if you want to return to school feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the new material with an unstressed mind. by ALEX YU
F
irst things first: focus on your body. Chances are, you’ve been sleep deprived. It’s important that you get plenty of sleep. It can be hard to get back into a routine of a healthy sleep cycle so there are three things I would suggest you do. First, make sure that you fall asleep at a decent time. If you cannot go to sleep, try to read a book not school related. Read something you want to read, such as a current New York Times best seller. Set an alarm to about 8:00 am. Force yourself to wake up and begin your day. This will help in making you tired so you can fall asleep earlier. Drink plenty of water and catch up on your fruits and vegetables. Flush your system of all the caffeine and ramen. Your body will thank you later. In addition to sleeping and eating healthy, it is also important that you try to exercise. Try and go for a run or do any of your favorite exercise routines. Second: give your brain a break. During finals week your brain is being crammed with mechanisms, formulas, terms, and cycles. During the winter break, allow your brain to rest. By rest, I don’t mean to completely shut off your mind. It is still important to think about everyday tasks! What I do mean is to allow your brain to rest and focus on things that you want it to focus on. For example, a good book can go a long way. Reading is both relaxing and mentally stimulating and thus you aren’t completely wasting your brainpower on mindless
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activities. Watch movies, catch up on missed television episodes, and play video games. Allow your mind to do what it wants to do. Lastly: reward yourself for your achievements. Each semester for pre-med students becomes increasingly more difficult with upper level biology and chemistry classes, and if you’ve managed to ace organic chemistry I, you definitely deserve a reward. So what constitutes a reward? Some may consider the break itself to be the reward, but I usually indulge myself in my favorite meals and throw in purchase for myself as well. Being close to the holidays, gifts can also be a form of reward, but be sure to get something for yourself exclusively for all of your hard work. You deserve it! So remember, wherever you are for your winter break, be sure to relax, catch up on sleep and exercise, and be sure to reward your mind as well as yourself! Don’t even think about picking up that MCAT book until the first of January! ALEX YU is a junior studying Biology at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. He enjoys cooking, reading, and writing in his spare time and is currently preparing to apply to medical school
Premed / Pre-Health / Post Bacc Electives & Study Abroad in Africa
A F R I C A
Our program offers the following: Ø Opportunity for early exposure to medicine Ø A unique way to demonstrate intent and interest in medical school application Ø See healthcare delivery in a different setting Ø Cultural exchange and an appreciation of other cultures, including a Safari to famous Maasai Mara if placed in Kenya
info@electiveafrica.com
www.electiveafrica.com
Elective Africa's Premed / Pre-Health / Post Bacc program offers well structured and well supervised placements for Premed / Pre-Health / Post Bacc students seeking to study abroad, get independent study and be involved in experiential learning or volunteer programs in Africa.
Medical Programs
Safari to Masai Mara
Ø Student electives ð Surgery, Pediatrics, General Medicine, Obstetrics
& Gynecology, Emergency & Critical Care, Dentistry Ø Premed programs Ø Public health research Ø Medical camps Ø Nursing Ø Midwifery Ø Physician Assistant
“Doing a medical elective in Kenya was an eye opening experience. I got to see the developing world health system and range of tropical diseases not normally prevalent in Australia. It was a really hands on experience. I got to learn and perform skills like administering injections, catheters and suturing patients. I was also able to take part in the examining, differentials, diagnosing and formulating treatment plans. The highlight for me would have to be the amazing new friends I have made and the motivation I have taken back home. I would recommend this program to anyone considering it.” Cassanne Eccleston Charles Sturt University Australia, August 2010
http://www.electiveafrica.com
FEATURE
WE'RE JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU Six Reasons Medical Schools Reject Applicants by JESSICA FREEDMAN, M.D.
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Every year applicants feel confused and in the dark about why they have been rejected by medical schools. They do not understand what they did wrong or what they need to do differently when they reapply. Whether you are a premedical student trying to make sure to "do everything right" or a medical school applicant who has not yet been accepted to medical school, it may help to learn what applicants who are not accepted to medical school often have in common. Many of these problems are easy to avoid while others take a little more time and effort to remedy. Here are six problems I have observed:
APPLYING TO A NARROW RANGE OF MEDICAL SCHOOLS Everyone has told you that you are a great applicant and you should have no concerns. Premed advisors, friends, and family may advise you to reach high and that you don't need to apply to more than 10 to 15 medical schools. I advise most students to be wary of this advice. While I always encourage medical school applicants to "aim high" and to have dream schools in mind, being realistic is also important. The competition for medical school admissions is fierce; fewer than half of 42,742 applicants matriculated in 2010/2011. So unless you have outstanding grades, MCAT® scores, letters of reference, experiences, written application materials, and a great interview experience, it is extremely important to cast a wide net and to apply broadly to a large range of medical schools. Sometimes applicants (or their advisors) overestimate their competitiveness and apply to mostly top-tier medical schools. These applicants are then surprised when they are not accepted to any of them. The bottom line is that, even if you are a topnotch applicant, you must consider adding to your list medical schools that are not ultra-selective.
LACKING CLINICAL EXPERIENCE You are applying to medical school, right? Then you must be able to demonstrate to the admissions committee that your experience fits this career decision. Many medical school applicants are interested in science and, while research is important, it cannot substitute for clinical exposure. Some medical school applicants submit applications with an impressive list of accomplishments and experiences but don't demonstrate any clinical exposure, which comes in many forms: You can shadow your own family physician, volunteer in a free clinic or a hospital, or participate in a formal premedical program that includes time spent with physicians. It is very tough to convince an admissions committee via your written documents or during interviews that you want to pursue a career in medicine if you have never spent time in a clinical arena.
SUBMITTING POORLY COMPOSED WRITTEN DOCUMENTS Regardless of your candidacy's strengths, composing persuasive application materials is essential for success. Whether you are competitive applicant seeking accept-
ance to the most prestigious medical schools in the country or a "borderline" applicant with lower than average grades, experiences, or MCAT® scores, your experience descriptions and personal statement must convince the people reviewing your application that you are worthy of an interview and an acceptance. This is especially important during the first stage of the medical school admissions process when the admissions committee decides whether or not to extend an interview invitation. The committee bases this decision on the objective material you present such as your academic profile, but your written materials, including your application and letters of reference, make a difference. You don't have control over the content of your LORs, but you do have complete control of what you write in your application materials. Written documents that clearly and articulately express the evolution of your interest in medicine with introspection and thought are more likely to motivate the admissions committee to click the "interview" box when deciding your fate.
HAVING A LACKLUSTER ACADEMIC PROFILE You have done "okay" in college and on your MCAT®, but is your performance strong enough to gain admission to medical school? Many medical school admissions committees "screen" applications; if your grades or MCAT® don't reach a certain threshold, you are automatically rejected and your application isn't reviewed. Other medical schools use a school-specific "formula" that takes into account your grades and MCAT® score and determines whether or not your application will be reviewed if you earn a minimum score. The general rule of thumb is that you must have an overall undergraduate grade point average (UGPA) of 3.5 with a strong performance in the sciences and a minimum MCAT® score of 30 to gain admission to medical school, but this rule has variations. For example, if your UGPA is lower than a 3.5, your MCAT® is a 31 and you have outstanding LORs, documents, and interview skills (see below) you can still gain admission to medical school. Medical schools also consider the rigor of your academic course load, undergraduate institution competitiveness, outside pressures (such as financial difficulties), and upward grade trend when evaluating how you performed. Many students perform poorly as a freshman in college and as they adjust to college life their grades steadily increase as they improve their study and time management skills; admissions committees consider this. The evaluation of applicants is also subject to various nuances. For example, the student who attends a competitive undergraduate institution and pursued a difficult major, with a UGPA of 3.4 and an MCAT® 36 might be viewed more favorably than the student who attended a less competitive college, pursued a less rigorous major and had a 4.0 but earned a 31 on the MCAT®. In other words, to some extent admissions committees consider the competitiveness of your undergraduate institution and course load. At the same time, you need to realize that applicants' MCAT® performances are the only measures admissions committees have for comparing "apples to apples." This is why an exceptional MCAT® performance is important regardless of where you attend college. >>>
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 33
SUBMITTING A LATE APPLICATION You are an outstanding applicant but submitted a late application. Though this problem is easy to "fix," you should understand why it's important to rectify it. Every year the American Medical College Application Service ® (AMCAS®) starts accepting medical school applications on or around June 1st And submitting your primary application as close to this opening date as possible is essential. Why? AMCAS® must review and verify your application, which can take up to six weeks (or more if there is a problem), and medical schools will review your application only after you are "verified" and they have received all supplemental application materials, such as letters of reference, Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT®) scores, and secondary applications and essays. By submitting an early application you will be considered within a smaller pool of applicants early in the season. In contrast, applicants who wait until deadlines to submit their application materials are typically considered within a much larger pool of applicants. In addition, because early applicants have been invited for some of a school's finite number of interviews, those who apply late are competing with a large number of applicants for fewer interview slots. Similarly, for medical schools with rolling admissions, interviewing late in the admissions season is less than ideal since in March or April, for example, most initial acceptance offers have been extended. This means that even if you are a competitive applicant, the medical school may not have any more interviews or acceptances to extend. This is
why many great applicants who submit late applications, receive "hold", 'reject," or "wait list" decisions rather than acceptances. If you are rejected by medical school and decide that your academic record needs to be enhanced, you have many options. If grades are the issue, consider taking upper division classes at a four year university after graduation. Postgraduate special master's programs specifically designed for students who want to attend medical school are also a good alternative; a searchable database of such programs is available from the Association of American Medical Colleges: http://services.aamc.org/postbac. Other possibilities are to pursue a master's in public or global health or in a specific scientific discipline in which you are interested. These are all great options if you need to improve your academic profile. If your MCAT® is the concern, you must critically evaluate what you need to do to improve so you can target your studying. DEMONSTRATING POOR INTERVIEW SKILLS. Once an applicant reaches the interview stage, the interview is the most important determinant of success. Typically, interviewees with great interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence are naturally better interviewees than applicants who are more introverted. Applicants who are very nervous, not articulate, or who aren't comfortable speaking about themselves can under-perform during the interview. Even though some US medical schools are adopting the multiple mini interview (MMI) format, most medical schools still conduct oneon-one interviews. Contrary to what most med-
ical school applicants believe when they start this process, medical school interviews are typically relaxed dialogues; the interviewer is trying to get to know each applicant, assess if he or she has the qualities and characteristics the school is seeking in medical students, and if he is a good fit for the school. While a certain degree of subjectivity influences every interview experience, applicants can perform well if they practice speaking about themselves before the interview and if they clearly express their motivations and experiences that influenced their decision to practice medicine. I have seen applicants fail to be accepted to medical school again and again for one or more of these "Top Six" reasons. Nonetheless, how a school weighs each of these factors, among others, is determined by each applicant's unique profile and situation and the criteria and admissions process of that particular school. Always remember that each medical school considers every candidate individually and there are many things you can do to improve your chance of success.
JESSICA FREEDMAN, M.D., is president of MedEdits Medical Admissions (www.MedEdits.com) and author of the MedEdits Guide to Medical Admissions and The Medical School Interview. Follow Dr. Freedman and MedEdits on Facebook and Twitter.
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ESPECIALLY THIS SPECIALTY
Learn more about various specialties and what it will take to pursue a certain specialty<<<
Becoming a...
NOCTURNIST Almost unheard of a generation ago, hospital medicine is a relatively new phenomenon in American medicine. For those of you interested in becoming a hospitalist, it is a must that you are okay with just practicing in a hospital.
WHAT DOES A NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST DO? It's quite simple - a physician who only treats patients in a hospital and whose primary professional focus is hospital medicine is called a hospitalist. Different from physicians who may treat patients in an office-based setting or a clinic in addition to seeing patients in a hospital, hospitalists are typically employed by a hospital and work only in a hospital facility where patents are admitted for overnight stays. While most hospitalists are trained in internal medicine, many of them have a background in family medicine. Different from a traditional provider, a hospitalist is available to care for patients 24/7. In general, hospitalists work 12-hour shifts for a full seven days. As for a nocturnist, their primary role is to admit patients from an emergency room, and to "cross-cover" previously admitted inpatients, through the night. The typical nocturnist works from 7pm to 7am.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO BECOME A NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Undergraduate - (4 Years) to obtain bachelor's degree Medical School - (4 Years) to obtain a doctor of medicine degree (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) Internship - (1 Year) involves training in a hospital; precursor to residency. Residency - (2-3 Years) to undgergo extensive clinical training under the supervision of a licensed physician.
We just thought we'd have a little fun with the title of this issues' section because a nocturnist is just a hospitalist who only works overnight. So this issue's specialty is actually about being a hospitalist! In 1996 the term "hospitalist" was coined in the New England Journal of Medicine and since then has grown into a field of thousands of physicians.
WHAT IS THE CAREER OUTLOOK FOR NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Because of the high demand for skilled health care providers, the hospitalist field is one of the fast-growing careers in health care today. As more and more doctors with private practices begin focusing more on their practice, they are relinquishing their inpatient hospital responsibilities to hospitalists. WHAT DO SOME NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST SAY THEY LOVE ABOUT THEIR FIELD? Block scheduling which allows hospitalists to have a substantial amount of time off, sometimes up to six months. Many hospitalists also like the fact that since they are not self-employed in a private practice, they do not have to worry about the business side of managing their own practice, which can be a lot of extra work. WHAT DO SOME NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST HATE ABOUT THEIR FIELD?
SAY THEY
The good of being a hospitalist can also be bad from some because being employed by a hospital also means that that physician is essentially working for someone else, an arrangement which some are not always too fond of. In addition, some hospitalists say that compared to office-based work, working in a hospital-setting is too repetitive, too impersonal, and sometimes more stressful.
WHAT DO NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST EARN?
The average hospitalist makes anywhere from about $175,000 on the lower end to upwards of $250,000 on the higher end of the spectrum. However, nocturnist are typically paid higher than their colleagues who work during the day. Â&#x201E;
WHAT ARE SOME SUB-SPECIALTIES OF NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Some of the more common specialists that are also hospitalists are nerohospitalist, surgical hospitalists (surgicalists) OB hospitalists (laborists), and dermatological hospitalists. For hospitalists who wish to advance within their field, additional leadership roles such as a director or group manager can be pursued. In this role, directors or group managers are tasked with helping to coordinate the coverage schedule among the group of hospitalists to ensure consistent hospital coverage. Additional responsibilities like managing professional and quality issues are also a part of being a hospitalist manager or director.
WHAT ARE CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Leadership skills, effective communication skills with other members of medical team, patients, and a patient's family members, ability to work well with a team, and the ability to assess the need for quality improvement.
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 37
5
THINGS YOUR MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEWER WON’T TELL YOU One one of the biggest days of your life, there are just some things that you shouldn’t do. Preparing yourself ahead of time will do you a lot of good in the long run. Here are some things that your medical school interviewer is probably thinking but won’t tell you.
38 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
I KNOW YOU'RE NERVOUS BUT YOU REALLY SHOULD HAVE REMEMBERED MY NAME Although it may seem like a minor detail, remembering your interviewer(s) name(s) is a bigger deal than you may realize. Not only does remembering matter, but if you're able to throw their name in before or while you're answering a question, you may also score a couple of points. If you don't feel comfortable referring to them by name during the interview, it would be a nice end to the interview if you say "Thank You, so and so" to close your conversation. Don't you know - people love to hear their own name! Remembering and using your interviewer's name throughout your interview will help you feel a bit more comfortable and show your interviewer that you're interested and involved in the moment. This is one of the small things that many students fail to focus on that can mean the difference of you standing out from the other applicants.
I REALLY WISH YOU WOULD'VE THOUGHT OF A LEAST ONE QUESTION TO ASK ME It goes without saying that you should have at least one question to ask you interviewer during your time together. Whether it's what they enjoy most about working or studying at the college/university or another questions specific to the school's curriculum or research program, you need to be prepared to ask a question even if your interviewer doesn't ask you if you have any questions. When you do your research about the school you're interviewing at beforehand, jot down any questions you may have.
YOUR BODY LANGUAGE IS SAYING A LOT MORE THAN YOU REALIZE You may already know what you're going to say during your medical school interview but what about what you're going to do? Although many students may not think about the non-verbal cues they give off during their interview, body language can be just as important, if not more important than what's actually coming out of your mouth. Your body language will tell your interviewer what's going on with you whether you want them to know or not. Picking at your nails and looking up and around when answering a question are only a couple of the signals that you can give off during an interview and not realize what you're "saying" to the other person across the table. Make sure that everything you're doing with your body speaks confidence and truthfulness. Not sure of what not to do? Do a search on Google for body language 101 and you may learn a thing or two.
FROM THE MOMENT YOU WALKED IN I'VE BEEN COMPARING YOU WITH THE LAST APPLICANT If you're not the first person being seen by an interviewer, they will naturally compare you to the last person they just interviewed. So of course, you're going to want to leave a lasting impression on the interviewer for as long as possible. You want them to still be thinking about you in a good way even after they've seen several applicants after you. If you're "that good," in their head they'll be comparing every student who comes after you to your interview - and that's a good thing! So be yourself and make the interview experience as memorable and meaningful as possible.
I CAN TELL HOW PASSIONATE YOU ARE ABOUT MEDICINE BY HOW YOU ANSWER MY QUESTIONS With some of the unique questions interviewers are asking these days, it can be kind of hard to prepare answers to some possible questions. But there will be some questions, whether posed in a traditional way or not, which will probe your motivation and desire to pursue medicine. If you're doing it for your parents, it will show in how you answer these questions whether you realize it or not. If you're doing it for the money, it will show just the same. It's important that you think about why you want to become a doctor and find a way to express your thoughts in a way that exudes passion and honesty behind your answer. Â&#x201E;
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 39
2012
PRE-MED
SUMMER PROGRAM LIST
PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Arizona Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Summer Students Program
Phoenix, Arizona
June/July 2012
6-Week
Summer Research Fellowship at the University of Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas
May 2012
8 Weeks
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)
Los Angeles, California
June-August 2012
6 Weeks
Seaver Undergraduate Research in Biology at Pepperdine University
Malibu, California
TBA
TBA
40 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
Summer research and academic enrichment geared toward pre-medical students are a great way to strengthen your medical school application. Most students who get accepted to medical school have participated in one or more summer pre-med programs during the course of their undergraduate studies. The following is a list of summer programs available to students aspiring to become doctors. There are various opportunities available in a number of institutions across the US. If you want to participate in academic enrichment programs, test preparation courses, research projects, or hospital internships, check out the following list of opportunities for Summer 2011. Be sure to check individual websites for application deadlines! The list includes opportunities nationwide in several different areas. Among the areas include are: California, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and more.
DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
A, pro bono, six-week program designed to motivate and inspire students considering a career in medicine. Students attend didactic (designed or intended to teach) lectures and participate in clinical rotations at both the Arizona Heart Institute and Arizona Heart Hospital. Paid summer research fellowships are available for undergraduate students who will be juniors or seniors by the fall semester. Selected students will work on a project relevant to human health in a laboratory of a faculty member at either the University of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, or the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. The Biomedical Research fellowships are designed for students with a solid background in science who wish to be part of an ongoing research project, develop their technical skills and are interested in pursuing a research career.
$3200 Stipend Living Allowance
The UCLA SMDEP will serve as a model learning community in which students examine health care issues in medically underserved communities. Through a research project, problem-based learning cases, lectures, clinical experiences, and small-group discussions, students will also improve their learning skills and increase their science knowledge. The program targets educationally and financially disadvantaged community college students.
Meals Stipend Housing
Summer research program geared specifically to undergraduate students who are interested in pursing a career in biological research, science education, environmental science or biotechnology. Over the summer, students will pursue individual research seminars in one of five research areas students may elect to study.
Stipend Room & Board
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Phone(602) 200-0437 Email foundation@azheart.com
MARCH 2012
Phone(501) 526-6503
FEBRUARY 2012
Website brin.uams.edu/students2.asp
Phone(310) 825-9573 Email uclasmdep@mednet.ucla.edu
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.medsch.ucla.edu/smdep
jay.brewster@pepperdine.edu
FEBRUARY 2012
Website seaver.pepperdine.edu/surb
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 41
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Stanford Summer Research Program (SSRP)
Stanford, California
TBA
8 Weeks
UCLA Pre-Medical Enrichment Program (PREP)
Los Angeles, California
June 20-August 3 2012
7 Weeks
UCLA Re-Application Program (RAP)
Los Angeles, California
June 20-August 3, 2012
11 Months Summer Session 7 Weeks + Academic Session 9 Months
Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy
Duarte, California
May-July 2012 or June-August 2012
10 Weeks
National Cancer Institute (NCI) Continuing Umbrella of Research Experience (CURE) Program
Duarte, California
May-August 2012 June-August 2012 June-September 2012
12 Weeks
UCSD Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)
San Diego, California
TBA
8 Weeks
42 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Email: ssrpmail@stanford.edu
Program offers undergraduates who want to prepare for and enter Ph.D programs in the sciences an opportunity to work with Stanford's distinguished faculty and work in one of Stanford's state-of-the-art research facilities. Participants will work with a faculty member and a lab mentor to craft a research project. The program culminates with a research symposium, where students present individual talks and posters on their summer projects in front of the faculty, lab mentors, and University administrators.
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website ssrp.stanford.edu
Program designed to provide premedical and predental students from disadvantaged background with a means of strengthening their ability and readiness to study medicine or dentistry. Students will work at a rigorous pace with a highly focused scope to prepare for the MCAT and DAT. Participants will engage in an extensive and lively classroom review of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Verbal Reasoning. Participants are also assigned to observe practicing physicians, dentists, and medical researchers performing the typical functions of their professions.
Travel allowance for eligible participants
Phone(310) 825-3575
Comprehensive, structured re-application program designed to assist students from disadvantaged background who have been unsuccessful in gaining admission to any U.S. medical school. The program begins with an intensive 8-week summer session, focused upon prerequisite science review and MCAT preparation. An individualized academic-year program that consists of a science curriculum will follow.
Stipend (Depending on availability)
Phone(310) 825-3575
Program gives promising students with an interest in research and health science careers practical experience and helps them develop important skills for their futures. Our instructors are world-renowned physicians and scientists who guide students in their research, while helping them develop their critical thinking skills. Weekly seminars allow students to present research findings to their peers, a good primer for what graduate and postdoctoral students do.
$4000 Stipend
Email: psalv@coh.org
Program is designed to engage the scientific curiosity of promising young high school and undergraduate students from underrepresented populations who are interested in cancer research as a career.
$4800 Stipend
Website www.cityofhope.org/education/s ummer-studentacademy/Pages/CURE-program.aspx
Program for motivated undergraduate students interested in seeking future training in a combined MD/PhD program. Principle focus is an 8-week research project conducted in the laboratory of a faculty member in the biomedical sciences.
$1600/Month Stipend Housing Travel Allowance
Email: (800) 925-8704
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.medstudent.ucla.edu/prospective/?pgI D=181
MAY 3, 2012 (priority deadline) MAY 10, 2012 (final deadline)
Website www.medstudent.ucla.edu/prospective/?pgI D=183
MARCH 2012
Website www.cityofhope.org/education/summer-studentacademy/Pages/default.aspx
CONTACT PROGRAM
FEBRUARY 2012
Website mstp.ucsd.edu/surf/Pages/default.aspx
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 43
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Graduate Experience for Multicultural Students (GEMS) at the University of Colorado - Denver School of Medicine
Denver, Colorado
June - August 2012
10 Weeks
Summer Student Research Fellowship at Hartford Hospital
Hartford, Connecticut
June-August 2012
10 Weeks
Yale University Summer Medical/Dental Education Program (SMDEP) New Haven, Connecticut
June-July 2012
6 Weeks
Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation Internship Program
Ridgefield, Connecticut
TBA
TBA
College Enrichment Program (CEP) at the University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut
May - July 2012
6 Weeks
College Summer Fellowship Program at UConn School of Medicine
Farmington, Connecticut
TBA
10 Weeks
44 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
Selected GEMS interns will enroll in a research internship course, Topics in Biomedical Science and Research. The course will be conducted by distinguished research faculty and will consist of lectures, demonstrations, and laboratory research assignments with a mentor.
$3400 stipend Travel Allowance
Program offers a unique clinical research opportunity for college students pursuing careers in medicine. Fellowship is designed exclusively for pre-medical students completing either their junior or senior year in college. It offers the student an introduction to research methodology, patient treatment, and ethical issues in medicine as well as exposure to a broad spectrum of health care providers within a large community teaching hospital.
$1500 Award
Program for highly motivated college students who are considering a career in medicine. The Program exposes students to a problem-based learning model of science education that is similar to that used in medical school
Stipend Food Housing Travel Allowance
APPLICATION DEADLINE
(303) 724-6084 Email: GEMS@ucdenver.edu
MARCH 2012
Website www.ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/medicalschool/programs/GEMS/Pages/default.aspx
Rportal@harthosp.org
FEBRUARY 2012
Website www.harthosp.org/ResidenciesFellowships/default. aspx
(203) 785-7545 Email: Linda.jackson@yale.edu Website www.smdep.org/progsites/yale.htm
(202) 798-9988
Research & Development: Throughout the summer, interns will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with top researchers in their field. Medical: Interns within the medical department have the opportunity to assist on both early and late phase clinical trails. Whether the project entails enrolling participants into a clinical trail or measuring and analyzing trail results, interns work with leading doctors and researchers to assure that all Boehringer Ingelheim products meet all requirements set forth by the Food and Drug Administration.
MARCH 1, 2012
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website us.boehringer-ingelheim.com/career/internship.html
The program addresses the needs of University of Connecticut freshmen and sophomores. The program is designed to provide sound development of scientific and mathematical skills. The program consists of courses in individual programs of study in: Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Calculus, and Physics. The program will consist of 30 hours per week of formal lecture, laboratory, directed study, and clinical experiences addressing the needs of college freshman or sophomores.
$800 Stipend Room & Board
The program is designed to offer undergraduates who are completing their sophomore, or preferably their junior year of college, and plant to purse a career as a MD, DMD, MD/PhD, or DMD/PhD. Once a student is accepted to the program and has selected and found a faculty sponsor in which to do research, the student will meet with the faculty sponsor in June and develop a research protocol and suitable project description. The student will commit approximately 30+ hours per week for the project and will work with the faculty sponsor or his/her designates.
$2500-$3000 Stipend Housing
APRIL 2012
(860) 468-3574 Email: leo.lachut@uconn.edu Website medicine.uchc.edu/prospective/hcop/college.html
(860) 679-2487 Email: dieli@uchu.edu
MARCH 15, 2012
Website medicine.uchc.edu/prospective/enrichment/collegefellow/index.html
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 45
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Summer Medical/Dental Education Program (SMDEP) at Howard University
Washington, DC
June-July 2012
6 Weeks
Georgetown Summer Medical Institute (GSMI)
Washington, DC
June/July 2012
Varies
STEP-UP/BSURE Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Baltimore, Maryland
June - August 2012
8 Weeks
Pre-Medical Summer Enrichment Program (PSEP) at The University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
TBA
6 Weeks
Minority Students Health Careers Motivation Program
Miami, Florida
June-July 2012
7 Weeks
46 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program is designed to provide an educational experience of exceptional quality that will strengthen the overall academic preparation of underrepresented minority, disadvantaged, and low-income students who express interest in admission to medical or dental school.
PROGRAM INFO
Stipend Housing Meals
(202) 806-0378 Email: hu_smdep@yahoo.com
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.smdep.org/progsites/howard.htm Email: gsmi@georgetown.edu
The program, combined with the informative and supportive environment at Georgetown University School of Medicine, will provide preparation and insight for individuals exploring the calling of medicine as a career, and those making-up medical school course.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
JUNE 2012
:
Website som.georgetown.edu/prospe ctivestudents/specialprograms/summer
Tuition: $3,862 (5 Credits) for Human Gross Anatomy and Human Physiology; $3,090 (4 Credits) for Medical Histology (Microscopic Anatomy) and Medical Biochemistry. Tuition includes the use of course textbooks and lab fees (for Anatomy). Summer research program for talented students who are dedicated to the advancement of underrepresented groups in the sciences and mathematics. Students selected for this internship will experience state-of-the-art scientific research and are encouraged to consider and pursue biomedical research careers in areas of specific interest to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
$4,000 Stipend Travel Allowance
The program is designed for highly motivated students who are preparing for medical school or physical therapy school. The program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of talented minority and disadvantaged students for admission into medical school and serves as a recruitment tool to USF COM Medicine. The program includes a review of concepts in biology, general and organic chemistry, and physics. Participants will work closely with faculty in areas of reading skills, test taking skills, etc. Participants are also pared with physicians in the local community to have an opportunity to develop an appreciation of the "real world of medicine" through weekly clinical experiences.
$1500 Grant
The program is designed to be a mini first-year medical education experience that exposes participants to classroom instruction in select basic science courses in the medical education curriculum and offers physician-shadowing opportunities. Great attention is placed on identifying and removing any barriers that may prevent a participant from being a competitive medical school applicant. Workshops develop skills for preparing strong admissions and financial aid applications.
$400 Stipend Housing Meals Travel Allowance
FEBRUARY 2012 OR UNTIL THE PROGRAM IS FILLED
(410) 455-2271 Email: sutphin@umbc.edu Website www.umbc.edu/bsure
(813) 974-4707 Email:pamattoe@health.usf.edu
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website health.usf.edu/medicine/osde/p sep.htm
(305) 284-3187
LATE MARCH 2012
Website www6.miami.edu/provost/oae/ motivationprogram.html
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 47
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Health P.A.S.S. Program
Des Moines, Iowa
July 2012
4 Weeks
Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) at The University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
TBA
TBA
MCAT-DAT Review Summer Workshop at the University of Louisville School of Medicine
Louisville, Kentucky
July-August 2012
4 Weeks
Buck for Brains Summer Research Program at the University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Varies
8 Weeks
Frontier Nursing Service Courier Program
Wendover, Kentucky
TBA
Up to 12 weeks
Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Bethesda, Maryland Baltimore, Maryland Frederick, Maryland
mid-May-June 2012
8 Weeks
Summer Internship Program at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Baltimore, Maryland
June-August 2012
9-10 Weeks
48 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program is for promising college sophomores and juniors to prepare for and enhance their chances of getting into medical school and other health professions programs. Health P.A.S.S. will provide participants with wellrounded perspectives on what it's like to be a medical school student in osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine and surgery, physical therapy, and physician assistant studies. In the program's courses, clinical opportunities and practical exposure, students will gain the confidence that they can achieve a degree and career in any of Des Moines University's four clinical areasand the knowledge they need to get started.
Travel stipend Meals Materials Housing
The program provides academic enrichment in chemistry and biology, as well as clinical experiences, medical and dental experiential activities, laboratory experiences, seminars, demonstrations, and clinical site visits.
Housing Meals
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE FEBRUARY 2012
(800) 240-2767 x 1709 Website www.dmu.edu/healthpass
(859) 257-1968; Email: ctsnyd0@email.uky.edu Website www.uky.edu/pimser/programs/peppbrochure.pdf
Free MCAT-DAT review workshop for eligible students
(502) 852-8109; Email klfarm02@louisville.edu
CONTACT PROGRAM
(859) 257-6322 Email bguer00@email.uky.edu
APRIL 15, 2012
The program provides undergraduates at the University of Kentucky with hands-on experience in academic research, working alongside "Bucks for Brains" faculty. Students are placed in research settings ranging from plant biochemistry to computer science to American history.
$3500 Stipend
The program provides a type of internship for young women and men who had a desire to go into the medical field. For young women and men who are interested in the healthcare field, the Courier Program provides limited opportunities to shadow healthcare professionals including: family nurse practitioners, physicians, nurse-midwives at FNS rural healthcare centers, at Mary Breckinridge Hospital and Home Health Agency.
$42/week for room and board and for the complete 12 weeks $500.
(606) 672-2317 Email information@frontiernursing.org
The program is designed to provide an independent research experience in biomedical and/or public health research to undergraduate students under the direct mentoring of established Johns Hopkins researchers. During the program interns work one-on-one with faculty on research projects in their field of interest and attend a health science seminar series.
Stipend
cohend@mail.nih.gov
The program provides experience in research laboratories to students of diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented minority students and students from economically disadvantaged and underserved backgrounds. The purpose of this exposure to biomedical and/or public health research is to encourage students to consider careers in science, medicine and public health.
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.research.uky.edu/students/rctf.html
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.frontiernursing.org/Courier/TodayCourier.shtm
MARCH 1, 2012 (more info avail mid Nov 2012)
Website www.jhsph.edu/student_affairs/diversity /DSIPFactSheet.pdf
$3,000 Stipend Housing
Email cwill@jhmi.edu
FEBRUARY 1, 2012
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 49
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
College Summer Enrichment Program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School
Worcester, Massachusetts
May 27-June 22, 2012
4 Weeks
Four Directions Summer Research Program at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts
June 11-August 2, 2012
8 Weeks
Siteman Cancer Center Summer Opportunity Program
St. Louis, Missouri
June - August 2012
10 Weeks
Biomedical Research Apprenticeship Program (BioMed RAP) at Washington University in St. Louis
St. Louis, Missouri
TBA
10 Weeks
50 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 15, 2012
(508) 856-2707
A tuition-free four-week residential program for undergraduate sophomores and juniors interested in entering the health professions. The goals of the program are to help participants improve their qualifications and competitive standing for admission to professional, graduate and/or medical school. The program includes enrichment activities to enhance participants' academic and communication skills. Sessions include the professional school application process with emphasis on medical school admissions and financing professional school. Seminars on biomedical research and cultural contemporary health issues are also provided. Additionally, the SEP offers participants the opportunity to interact with medical students, scientists, physicians, and other health care professionals
Stipend Housing Travel Allowance
The focus of activity during the summer is participation in a basic science research project. Students are assigned a medical school faculty mentor who will work closely with the student to ensure completion of a project over the 8-week summer period. Additional program goals include: Experience cutting edge research at a leading medical school, understand the medical school application process, exposure to Native American health care issues, integrate Native traditions including talking circles, networking with Native American students and faculty
Travel Allowance Housing Living stipend for food and other necessities
(617) 525-7644 FourDirections@partners.org
Program provides opportunities for undergraduate, pre-med and medical students enrolled at Washington University or other accredited universities to work on cancer research projects during the summer. Opportunities range from basic laboratory research to clinical research to prevention/control and population research.
$3500 Stipend
(314) 454-8439 Email waldhofft@siteman.wustl.edu
As a BioMedRAP/CD-BioRAP participant, students will conduct independent research with outstanding faculty mentors, work in a cutting edge science and technology environment, gain exposure to some of the nation's finest biomedical investigators and an extensive variety of research topics, receive individualized career counseling and develop your career interests, participate in workshops, seminars and journal clubs, build a social network with student peers and faculty, and prepare to apply to the best Ph.D. and M.D. /Ph.D. programs in the United States
Stipend Travel Allowance Housing
Website www.umassmed.edu/outreach/sep.aspx
FEBRUARY 8, 2012 @ 11PM
Website www.fdsrp.org
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.siteman.wustl.edu/internal.aspx?id=254
(314) 362-7963 Biomedrap@msnotes.wustl.edu
JANUARY 31, 2012
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 51
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Premedical Achievement Program (PMAP) at Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
June - July 2012
6 Weeks
Summer MCAT Review Program at Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
May 21 -25 2012
1 Week
University of Nebraska Medical Center Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)
Omaha, Nebraska
June - July 2012
8 Weeks
Summer Undergraduate Fellowship Program at the Eppley Cancer Research Institute
Newark, New Jersey
TBA
10 Weeks
52 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program is an intensive MCAT and medical school admissions preparation program is open to disadvantaged students who will be applying to medical school.
PROGRAM INFO
Stipend may be available for eligible students
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Email: MDadmissions@msu.edu (517) 432-6589 Website www.mdadmissions.msu.edu
(517) 355-2363
The program is designed to help students prepare for the MCAT by building upon their undergraduate learning by helping them to synthesize a stronger overall command of related scientific and biological principles. The program will help students solidify the knowledge and skills students they have already developed in their undergraduate work and show them how to tap the critical thinking skills necessary for success in the MCAT. Instructors explain concept overviews, then provide guided practice through problem sets, followed by close analysis with an eye to understanding MCAT philosophies and mechanics, and while instructors are available outside of class time for consultation, this approach may not be suited to every student's learning style.
MARCH 2012
MAY 1, 2012
Website lrc.msu.edu/gre/CLIMB.php
Tuition: $800 (includes all materials, pre- and post-testing and follow-up advising). MARCH 1, 2012
The program is designed to identify, recruit, and assist future dentists and doctors through a comprehensive six-week summer experience for talented freshman and sophomores. The overall goal of the program is to provide each scholar the navigation tools necessary to reach their current and future goals. NMC's primary focus on core academics is a springboard for students in their pursuit of a career as a physician or dentist. What makes this program unique is its emphasis on small-group learning. Instruction includes areas, such as health disparities, medical ethics, and public health. Various clinical shadowing experiences will help students build a strong foundation in their chosen discipline as well as potentially spark new passions in the medical and dentistry field.
Meals Travel Assistance Stipend Housing
(800) 701-9665 Email smdep@unmc.edu
Students in the summer program work for 10 weeks doing hands-on cancer research in Eppley Institute laboratories. Students get to try research, learn techniques and new concepts, and work with professional researchers, all while earning a competitive summer salary. Virtually all of our former summer students have been successful in gaining acceptance to graduate and professional schools. Students gain hands-on laboratory experience in cancer research labs, daily interactions with research faculty, staff, and students, weekly seminar program, and present your own research at a poster session.
$4000 Stipend Housing
crgp_info@eppleyits.comundefined
Website www.smdep.org/progsites/nebraska.htm
MARCH 1, 2012
Website http://www.unmc.edu/eppley/summer.htm
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 53
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical and New Jersey Dental Schools Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)
Newark, New Jersey
June-July 2012
6 Weeks
Biomedical Careers Program (BCP) at Robert Wood Medical School
Piscataway, New Jersey
June - July 2012
6 Weeks
Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)
New York, New York
June-July 2012
6 Weeks
Gateways to the Laboratory Summer Program at Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan-Kettering
New York, New York
June - August 2012
10 Weeks
54 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 1, 2012
Program serves to advance our institution's core mission of meeting society's current and future health care needs by preparing individuals underrepresented in medicine and dentistry, and doing so while championing cultural competency and humanism in all aspects of education. SMDEP reaffirms our continued commitment to and involvement in pipeline initiatives and will allow our two institutions to attain even greater diversity. SMDEP will also allow us to continue strengthening the academic portfolios of these college students so that they are competitive candidates for medicine and dentistry.
Stipend Housing Meals
(973) 972-3762 anthondd@umdnj.edu
Academic enrichment program for undergraduate students interested in careers in the health professions. The program targets undergraduates who are economically and/or educationally disadvantaged. BCP offers an intensive six-week summer program to serve students at all stages of undergraduate education. Students take part in a variety of science enrichment and healthcare-oriented activities.
Tuition Free
(732) 235-4558 summerprogram@umdnj.edu
The program provides students seriously interested in applying to medical or dental school with a well-defined, integrated approach to learning, focusing on the basic science curriculum needed to apply to medical or dental school. Students engage in intense labs, learning-skills, and career development courses during the six weeks of the program, while attending weekly clinical rotations and seminars. The program strives to help students enhance and improve their chances of becoming successful applicants and students at the medical/dental schools of their choice.
Meals Travel Assistance Stipend Housing
(212) 305-4157 Email smdep-ps@columbia.edu
The program was established for underrepresented minority and disadvantaged college students who wish to pursue the combined MDPhD degree. Over the summer, students will: Work independently on a research project. Students will present and participate in weekly journal clubs. Participate in a hands-on tour of the Gross Anatomy Lab. Sit for a Mock MCAT exam. Partake in a Lab Techniques Workshop and Clinical Skills Workshop. Participate in Career Development Workshops. Scrub into surgeries at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Give an oral, written and poster presentation of your research in front of your family, friends and colleagues. Have on going mentorship by your "Big Sib" (a current MD-PhD student) as well as weekly meetings with the Program's leadership.
$4300 Stipend Travel expenses
(212) 746-6023 Email mdphd@med.cornell.edu
Website www.smdep.org/progsites/newjersey.htm
MARCH 2012
Website rwjms.umdnj.edu/osap/bcp.html
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.smdep.org/progsites/columbia.htm
FEBRUARY 1, 2012
www.med.cornell.edu/mdphd/summerprogram
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 55
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Summer Undergraduate Mentorship Program at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University
Bronx, New York
June-July 2012
6 weeks
Montefiore Medical Center's Health Opportunities Program (Monte-HOP)
Bronx, New York
July - August 2012
6 Weeks
Project Asian Health Education and Development (AHEAD)
New York, New York
June - August 2012
8 Weeks
The Travelers Summer Research Fellowship Program for Premedical Students at Weill Cornell Medical College
New York, New York
June - August 2012
8 Weeks
Project Healthcare at NYU Langone Medical Center
New York, New York
June - August 2012
10 Weeks
56 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program will be comprised of a six-hour per week commitment to a shadowing experience with an assigned mentor and fourteen hours per week of lecture attendance. These fourteen hours will be distributed into the following three core curriculum components: six hours clinical didactic, six hours medical informatics, and two hours of MCAT preparation and test taking strategies. Students are also expected to conduct a research project while in the program.
PROGRAM INFO
$1000 Stipend Transportation Meals
MARCH 2012
(718) 430-2792 hcoe@einstein.yu.edu Website www.einstein.yu.edu/hcoe
(718) 920-4678 cwhittak@montefiore.org
The program is designed to promote, educate, and encourage underserved youth to purse careers within the health fields. Students will gain valuable knowledge and professional skills through interactive workshops, mentorship by physicians, observation of physician-patient interactions, lecture activities and independent learning.
APRIL 2012
Website www.einstein.yu.edu/hcoe
The program is designed to provide training and experience for college students who are interested in pursuing a career in the health care field. The program consists of a practical field placement, seminars and workshops, and participation in the development and completion of a community health project. Students explore various health careers, and gain an understanding of the dynamics of the New York Asian American community and of current health issues impacting the health status of Asian Americans in the United States.
Meals Travel Assistance Stipend Housing
The program is designed to give 25 premedical students deeper insights into the field of medicine, including issues that greatly affect the health of traditionally underserved groups. Through the experiences of laboratory or clinical research, the students learn how one purses a specific research problem under the supervision of a faculty member, thus providing an early education into basic research techniques that could be applicable to any area of medicine.
$140/Week Stipend Housing Travel expenses are paid for students that live some distance from Ne w York
Project Healthcare is an innovative volunteer program for enthusiastic and inspired college and post-baccalaureate students. Created by the Bellevue Hospital Center Emergency Department, PHC allows students an opportunity to experience and observe many different aspects of healthcare. The program is comprised of several weekly rotations which are based in the Emergency Department. It offers the committed student a unique healthcare experience, which is intended to furnish a wealth of knowledge about the numerous options for a career in healthcare.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
FEBRUARY 2012
(212) 379-6988 ext. 619
Website www.cbwchc.org/job/ahead/ahead.html
(212) 746-1057
FEBRUARY 1 2012
Website www.med.cornell.edu/education/programs
(212) 562-3041 Email bellevuepavers@nyumc.org
JANUARY 2012
Website emergency.med.nyu.edu/electives/college-students
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 57
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Summer Scientific Work Program (SSWP) at Franklin Hospital
Valley Stream, New York
TBA
4 weeks
ACCESS Summer Research Program at Cornell University
New York, New York
TBA
10 weeks
AGEP Summer Research Institute (SRI) at SUNY Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, New York
TBA
10 Weeks
Bronx-Westchester Area Health Education Center
Bronx, New York
May/July 2012
Varies
58 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program is an intensive residential research internship program for underrepresented minority undergraduates majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Students will get a unique opportunity to work on independent research projects in cuttingedge laboratories under the direction of Stony Brook University faculty. Health Careers Internship Program (HCIP): This program allows students aspiring toward a career in the health professions the opportunity to work in a health care setting and interact regularly with health professionals. Students must be Junior or Senior in college. Summer Health Internship Program (SHIP): The program provides a six-week summer placement opportunity for junior/senior high school, and freshman/sophomore college students who have expressed an interest in the health field. Students are exposed to a variety of careers in the health fields as well as to health issues affecting their communities.
APPLICATION DEADLINE FEBRUARY 15, 2012
MFalzone@nshs.edu
The program is designed to help college students decide whether or not a career in medicine is right for them. This renowned program offers students the opportunity to complete a four-week summer internship where they have the chance to observe and ask questions in order to learn more about the medical field. Throughout these four weeks, accepted students rotate through various departments in order to gain a well rounded experience of the hospital. Some of these departments include the operating room, emergency room, radiology, geriatrics, laboratory, psychiatry as well as the rehabilitation unit. Participants also have numerous opportunities to go on rounds with doctors, observe physicians in their private offices and attend hospital conferences. The Access program of Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences is a summer internship program that trains underserved college students in the biomedical sciences. Interns gain hands-on experience in a biomedical research laboratory and are encouraged to apply to PhD programs. Selected students are placed in laboratories at the Weill Cornell Medical College under the mentorship of experienced faculty members. n addition to the laboratory experience, students attend lectures and discussions aimed at enhancing their understanding of the current status of biomedical research, the pathways available for entering research careers, and the range of available career opportunities. Students also participate in weekly journal clubs, attend workshops that teach them how to prepare for interviews and seminars, and take part in social activities.
PROGRAM INFO
Website http://www.northshorelij.com/NSLIJ/ Pre-Med+Internship+Program
$3000 Stipend Up to $300 for travel expenses Housing
(212) 746-6565 ffreyre@med.cornell.edu
FEBRUARY 1, 2012
Website weill.cornell.edu/gradschool/summer/index.html
$3500 Stipend (631) 632-1387 Round-trip airfare sunyagep@notes.cc.sunysb.edu Housing Website Meals
FEBRUARY 2012
www.stonybrook.edu/agep/undergrad.shtml#sri
(718) 590-1110
VARIES
Website www.bwahec.org/programs
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 59
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
MD/PhD Summer Undergraduate Research Program at University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, Nebraska
TBA
10 Weeks
Summer Program for Future Doctors at East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
TBA
8 Weeks
Science Enrichment Preparation (SEP) Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
TBA
8 Weeks
Indians into Medicine Program at the University of North Dakota
60 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
Grand Forks, North Dakota
TBA
6 Weeks
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program is designed to provide appropriate experience and training to enable students to become competitive for admission to the school's MD/PhD Scholars Program. Benefits of the program include, gaining research training and experience that will make them more competitive for medical school, graduate school, other summer research programs, and MD/PhD program, exploring personal motivation for a career in medicine and biomedical research, meeting the UNMC faculty, participating in a student poster session.
$3000 Stipend
The program is an intensive, challenging, educational summer program that allows participants to experience the pedagogical style and demands of the medical school curriculum. The Summer Program for Future Doctors is a great opportunity for participants to strengthen their basic science knowledge base, enhance their critical thinking skills, gain a better understanding of the application and admissions process, and exhibit their abilities to successfully handle the academic, social, and emotional demands of medical school.
Housing and Travel Stipend
APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 1, 2012
(402) 559-8242 sacox@unmc.edu Website www.unmc.edu/com/summer/9.htm
(252) 744-2500 ascc@mail.ecu.edu
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.ecu.edu/cs-dhs/ascc/SPFD.cfm
(919) 966-2264
The SEP Program is an honors-level academic enrichment program for disadvantaged undergraduate students (rising sophomores and juniors) who seek admissions into graduate/health professional programs. Students will engage in more than 150 hours of classroom instruction in physics, organic chemistry, human physiology and quantitative skills/biostatistics, attend classes and seminars in reading speed and comprehension, test-taking strategies, essay writing, and interview techniques, visit local health facilities and network with health care professionals, and shadow a working professional in your health field of interest. 2 programs. Pathway at UND: This program is for tribal community college students planning to transfer to UND in health care or pre-health curricula. Pathway courses are taught by University instructors, and are designed to prepare participants for advanced courses in the areas of anatomy, physiology, biology and physics. Pathway also includes a learning skills component to promote successful learning styles and study habits. Pathway students are eligible to apply for one-year tuition waivers at UND. Med Prep at UND: This program is for American Indian college upperclassmen and graduates who are preparing for medical school coursework. The program is divided into two major components: pre-medical students preparing to take or retake the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and students entering medical school.
PROGRAM INFO
FEBRUARY 15, 2012
Website nchcap.unc.edu/sep.php
Stipend Travel Stipend
(701) 777-3037
MARCH 31, 2012
Website www.med.und.edu/inmed/summerprograms.html
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 61
2011 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)
Cleveland, Ohio
June - July 2012
6 Weeks
Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine Summer Scholars Program
Athens, Ohio
June 11 to July 17, 2012
6 Weeks
MedStarz Program at the University of Toledo College of Medicine
Toldeo, OH
July 2012
1 Week
Research, Observation, Service, and Education (R.O.S.E) Program at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Cincinnati, Ohio
Mid June - Early August 2012 8-10 Weeks
Chester Summer Scholars Program
Cleveland, Ohio
June - August 2012
Pre-Professional Internship Program at Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine
62 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
Cincinnati, Ohio
January 3-6, 2012 January 10-13, 2012 June 5-8, 2012 June 12-15, 2012 July 10-13, 2012 July 17-20, 2012
10 Weeks
1- 2 Weeks
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 1, 2012
The program is designed to identify, recruit, and assist in preparing as many highly talented, committed, and hard-working minority and economically disadvantaged students as possible for careers in dentistry and medicine. We hope to imbue our students with the confidence and skills necessary to allow them to return to school better prepared to perform well in more rigorous basic science and math classes.
Meals Travel Assistance Stipend Housing
(216) 368-0529 smdep@case.edu
Summer Scholars participants prepare for the challenges and rewards of medical school. Twenty-five applicants are selected each year to participate in this rigorous six-week program designed to give you an intensive and realistic introduction to the first-year curriculum at OU-COM. In addition to traditional medical school curricula taught by medical college faculty, graduate students and upperclass medical students, the program focuses on case-based problem solving and smallgroup/team work.
Room and board Stipend Program materials Round-trip travel expenses
(800) 345-1560 schriner@ohio.edu
The program provides students exposure to medicine and will include experiences that encompass sessions on navigating the medical school application process, introduction to the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model in small group sessions, hands on experience in the gross anatomy lab, clinical lectures on medical topics, diversity and cultural competency exercises, and contact with physicians in the clinical setting.
Housing Travel allowance
(419) 383-4229 medadmissions@utnet.utoledo.edu
The R.O.S.E. program is part internship, part early acceptance to medical school, and part mentorship program. The purpose of the program is to provide stimulating experiences and contact with academic medical faculty for high ability, intellectually curious pre-medical college students.
ROSE students have conditional acceptance to the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine; $3000 Stipend
(513) 558-5581 ROSEProgram@uc.edu
The program awards 15 collegiate undergraduate students the opportunity to spend the summer in clinical laboratory research at MetroHealth Medical Center. The program is an opportunity for pre-medical and scientifically-oriented students to explore the potential for a career in medical research or academic medicine.
$2000 Stipend Free Parking Supplies and equipment are provided
(216) 778-5940 jmoore@metrohealth.org
The Pre-Professional Internship Program at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine (OCPM) is designed to provide insight into the many facets of podiatric medicine and the education involved with obtaining the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Degree.
Website www.smdep.org/progsites/casewestern.htm
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.oucom.ohiou.edu/summerscholars
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.utoledo.edu/med/md/admissions/medstarz.html
FEBRUARY 1, 2012
Website www.med.uc.edu/rose/index.html
FEBRUARY 2012
Website www.metrohealth.org/body.cfm?id=289
(216) 916-7488 lfranck@ocpm.edu
DEC 13, 2011 FOR JAN PROGRAM MAY 15, 2012 FOR JUN PROGRAM JUNE 19, 2012 FOR JUL PROGAM
Website www.ocpm.edu/?page=admission-internships
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 63
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Summer Premedical Enrichment Program (SPEP) at the University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
June - July 2012
6 Weeks
Summer Premedical Academic Enrichment Program (SPAEP) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
June - July 2012
8 Weeks
Pre-med Enrichment Program at the University of Pennsylvania Health System
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
May - August 2012
10 Weeks
Pre-Med Program at St. Mary Healthcare Center
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Begins May 2012
TBA
Summer Pre-Med Program at Doylestown Hospital
Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Late-May - August 2012
10 Weeks
64 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
Website comdo-wcnlb.uc.edu
This program, open to high school graduates and college students, is designed specifically to prepare and support students who wish to pursue careers in the field of medicine. Spend seven weeks in Level I, strengthening your academic skills and learning more about careers in medicine. Or, spend eight weeks immersed and engaged in the work of physician-scientists including laboratory research and MCAT preparation through Level II. Both programs will enhance your skills and knowledge in science, writing and public speaking. You'll discover a challenging and stimulating program in the environment of a major academic medical center.
$1000 Stipend Transportation Housing Meals
(412) 648-8987
The aim of this program is to prepare minority students for careers in academic medicine or other positions of leadership in medicine. Students will be engaged in a program of research, clinical observations, classroom exercises and teaching observations, designed to stimulate their interest in academic medicine. In addition, the students will be engaged in the following: activities pertaining to the medical school application process and medical school admissions; classroom instructions and simulated testing to prepare the students for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).
$2500 Stipend
(215) 898-3980 jcraig@mail.med.upenn.edu
The program is designed for college students who have complete their junior year and are pursing academic programs leading to medical school. Doylestown Hospital physicians assist with the program, which includes lectures and "hands-on" volunteer work on patient floors and in many departments.
MARCH 1, 2012
(513) 558-7212 lathel.bryant@uc.edu
Residential program for 18 college juniors, seniors, and postbaccalaureate premedical students. Students receive intensive exposure to medicine as a career through t ours, speakers, seminars, and shadowing. Students are exposed to the medical school experience and the academic curriculum through a noncredit course in cardiophysiology, extensive interaction with medical students and faculty, and detailed guidance through the medical school application process. Emphasis is on strengthening critical thinking/problem solving skills, increasing selfawareness, and making each participant a competitive medical school applicant.
This program is for students who have complete their second year of college with a GPA of at least 3.2 in a course of study that qualifies them for medical school entrance.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.medschool.pitt.edu/future/future_03_spaep.asp
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.uphs.upenn.edu/coeomh/premed.html
Conditional acceptance to the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine; $3000 Stipend
(215) 710-2096 lschonewolf@stmaryhealthcare.org
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.stmaryhealthcare.org/body.cfm?id=132
(215) 354-2204
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.dh.org/body.cfm?id=616
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 65
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Mini-Med Spring Break at Drexel University College of Medicine
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March/April 2012
Choose from 7 1-week sessions
Vanderbilt Summer Science Academy (VSSA)
Nashville, Tennessee
June - August 2012
TBA
Oncology Education (POE) Program
Memphis, Tennessee
Mid-June - August 2012
Varies
Dialysis Clinic, Inc. Collegiate Medical Summer Internship Program
Nashville, Tennessee
June 1 - July 30, 2012
8 Weeks
66 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 2012
(215) 762-6800 minimed@drexelmed.edu
Participants will experience a medical education as seen through the eyes of 3rd and 4th year medical students during their clinical rotations in the hospital and clinical practices. The experience can enlighten participants about a career in medicine, whether they're about to enter medical school or are just beginning the application process. Participants will accompany the teaching team and 3rd and 4th year medical students on hospital rounds and be part of discussions between physician, patient, and medical students. Throughout the five-day program, participants will also see patients in clinical practice, attend department lectures, or go into the operating room. Participants will have the opportunity to talk with 3rd and 4th year medical students about their experiences preparing for medical school, what their first two years were like and what it's like now that they're out of the classroom and in the hospital.
Website www.drexelmed.edu/Home/OtherPrograms/ MiniMedSchool
Tuition: $1500 The program offers biomedical research opportunities to undergraduates who want to pursue a career in biomedical sciences. There are two major tracks within the VSSA; the Basic Science Programs for undergraduates interested in careers in research, and the Undergraduate Clinical Research Internship Program for undergraduates who wish to pursue a career in medicine. Participation in any one of the Summer Science Academy programs is a valuable learning experience that enhances a student's skills and makes him or her more competitive for acceptance to frontline graduate programs.
$2500-$4000 Stipend
The POE program offers a unique opportunity for students preparing for careers in the biomedical sciences, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, psychology, or public health to gain biomedical and oncology research experience. The POE program provides a short-term training experience (internship) in either laboratory research or clinical research. Students participating in the Pediatric Oncology Education program will receive training in a superb academic environment created by the interaction of committed basic scientists, research-oriented physicians, and postdoctoral fellows.
$4000 Stipend Housing
This program is a summer internship for premedical students in the clinical area of organ transplantation. The internship includes shadowing physicians on rounds in the hospital, observing and assisting in an outpatient/clinic facility, and observing transplant and transplant-related surgical operations.
(615) 343-2573 michelle.grundy@vanderbilt.edu
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website medschool.mc.vanderbilt.edu/ssa/
(901) 595-2488 Suzanne.gronemeyer@stjude.org
FEBRUARY 1, 2012
Website www.stjude.org/poe
(615) 327-8814
FEBRUARY 25, 2012
Website http://www.dciinc.org/summer_internship.php
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 67
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Michael E. DeBakey Summer Surgery Program at Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, Texas
Mid-June- August 2012
8 Weeks
The University of Texas Dental Branch and Medical School at Houston Houston, Texas Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)
May-June 2012
6 Weeks
Health Career Opportunities Program (HCOP) at The University of Houston College of Optometry
Houston, Texas
TBA
6 Weeks
Physiology Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE)
San Antonio, Texas
June - July 2012
8 Weeks
Scholars Program in Organic Chemistry at University of Texas - Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, Texas
TBA
10 Weeks
68 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
PROGRAM INFO
APPLICATION DEADLINE
studentprograms@bcm.tmc.edu
The Michael E. DeBakey Summer Surgery Program offers the pre-medical student a glimpse of a career in surgery long before they will ever pick up a scalpel for the first time. During the eight weeks, students become familiar with the hospital environment, the operating room, and the lifestyle of a surgeon. They are expected to become an integral part of their surgical teams by participating in rounds, surgery, and conferences.
JANUARY 17, 2012
Website http://www.debakeydepartmentofsurgery.org/ home/content.cfm?menu_id=17
The program seeks motivated students from a variety of backgrounds including those who are underrepresented or underserved that are interested in pursuing a career in dentistry and medicine, including those who have an interest in serving the underserved. The mission of SMDEP is to assist students in enhancing their knowledge, skills, and attitudes to make them more competitive and to improve their chances of becoming successful applicants to a medical or dental school of their choice. SMDEP scholars will experience academic enrichment in five core areas: microbiology, anatomy and physiology, pre-calculus/calculus, physics, and organic chemistry. Students will have clinical experiences in such areas as emergency medicine, family practice, internal medicine, restorative dentistry, and oral surgery.
Meals Travel Assistance Stipend Housing
(713) 500-4532 Rebecca.L.Lopez@uth.tmc.edu
The program involves specific activities designed to enhance qualifications for entry to the professional program including preparation for the Optometry Admission Test (OAT), counseling regarding the admission and application process, academic counseling, time management training, and test-taking/skills.
Financial aid assistance information is given to all students
(713) 743-2047 rboykins@optometry.uh.edu
This research program designed for highly motivated college undergraduate students with a genuine interest in experimental research careers in biomedical science. Undergraduates will have the opportunity to receive hands-on experience in on-going research projects under the direction of a faculty member as well as work with postdoctoral fellows and graduate students.
$3000 Stipend
The goals of the program are to improve college students' performance in organic chemistry and to provide these students with exposure to clinical medicine. The SPOC program will be conducted on the UT Southwestern campus in Dallas and has two components: 1) a 10 week course in Organic Chemistry and 2) clinical preceptorships with practicing physicians at UT Southwestern or in one of our affiliated clinical sites.
$1000 Stipend
MARCH 1, 2012
Website www.smdep.org/progsites/houston.htm
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website www.opt.uh.edu/students/undergrad
(210) 567-4324 physiologygrad@uthscsa.edu
MARCH 11, 2012
Website http://physiology.uthscsa.edu/new/teaching/ undergrad_sum_program.asp
(214) 648-7517 SPOCPrograms@UTSiuthwestern.edu
TBA
Website www.utsouthwestern.edu/utsw
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 69
2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST PROGRAM NAME
LOCATION
DATE
DURATION
Virginia-Nebraska Alliance Summer MCAT Preparatory Program
Richmond, Virginia
TBA
5 Weeks
Integrated Biological Sciences Summer Research Program (IBS-SRP)
Madison, Wisconsin
June - August 2012
10 Weeks
Study and Treatment of Human Disease in Mwandi, Zambia
Mwandi, Zambia
Early July - August 2012
4 Weeks
UC Irvine Summer Premed Program
70 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
Irvine, California
June - July, 2012
2 Week Sessions
PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION
PERKS
The program offers a summer MCAT Preparatory Program to students enrolled in Virginia's historically black colleges and universities and other Alliance schools. The program provides students the opportunity to advance their skills through an intensive course.
$1500 Stipend Housing Meals
APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 2012
(804) 287-6484 jvaugha2@richmond.edu Website http://prehealth.richmond.edu/ mcat-preparation/virginia-nebraska-alliance.html
(608) 262-5267 beasen@wisc.edu
In the program students do independent research projects with faculty mentors for ten weeks in one of seven research areas: Bioenergy Cellular and Molecular Biology Computational Biology & Biostatistics Environmental Biology Neurobiology Plant Development, Breeding and Genetics Virology. These seven disciplinary clusters are intellectually woven together at weekly meetings in an interdisciplinary learning community through evolutionary theory and the research process. In addition to meeting with the interdisciplinary group, students prepare research proposals, final papers, and oral presentations summarizing their work. The summer program in Mwandi, Zambia offers students an opportunity to work or various research & service projects at the United Church of Zambia's mission hospital, primary school or preschool. UCZ's mission hospital compound is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).Immediately following the spring semester, students will travel to Mwandi to conclude their course work which will consist of an independent project and a medical experience at the UCZ hospital compound. Students will spend approximately 3 weeks on-site in Mwandi and will write a final research paper based on their independent project.
PROGRAM INFO
FEBRUARY 2012
Website cbe.wisc.edu/srp-bio/
Housing
CONTACT PROGRAM
vecase@davidson.edu
Website www.bio.davidson.edu/people/vecase/mwandi/index.html
ELIGIBILITY: Students in good standing Davidson students enrolled in a pre-med spring course This program is for high school students who are not in college yet. UC Irvine's Summer Premed Program is dedicated to fostering in high school students an interest in pursuing careers in medicine. It also seeks to empower medical students and pre-professional students who are accepted as program coaches to become lifelong teachers and leaders.The twoweek courses combine lectures given by UC Irvine School of Medicine faculty members and hands-on workshops to provide students with a first-rate exposure to the medical field. Students also are exposed to the practice of medicine and patient care at UC Irvine Medical Center, Orange County's only university hospital.
summerpremed@uci.edu
CONTACT PROGRAM
Website http://www.som.uci.edu/summerpremed/
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 71
THEGOODS
>>>Our pick of items that will add some flair to your premedlife and perhaps make you smile Brainstrings This brain-teasing puzzle is just the kind of game you need to get those juices flowing. With this puzzle, it’s about stretching your spatial reasoning to new limits. Elastic bands connect colored buttons on opposite sides of a clear, plastic case. Your challenge is to group the buttons by color, sliding them along the slots cut in the clear plastic, without getting yourself (and the cords inside) all tied up in knots.
PI
CK
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ED
ITO
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IQ Test Gift Box Learn once and for all if you're an undiscovered Einstein. Inside this IQ Test Box you'll find a Welcome Letter, some information about IQ testing and intelligence testing in general, practice puzzles and brain trainers, and a sealed IQ test. After completing the test, you'll have to send it out and in less than a month, you'll receive a certificate revealing how smart you are.
` 72 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012
Signal Magnetic Bookends Not sure if they'll keep all your textbook standing but these contemporary, shelf-popping red arrows are sure cool to look at. A magnetic bar slips behind the covers of the outer books so you don't even see them.
Graduation Good Voodoo Doll For graduates who need a gentle poke in the right direction, this quirky dolls encourages the recent grad's nearest and dearest to pin their hopes on his or her successful future. Made from upcycled graduation robes, friends and family members can bestow wishes both silly and sincere, including "uber salary," "stellar roommate" and "scholarship money."
`
Coffer Lover Plant Kit This gift box includes everything needed to grow your own coffee plants. The Coffee Lover Plant kit is perfect for every fan of the roasted bean. The kit includes 1 packet of coffee plant seeds, 1 coconut husk starter pot, 1 coconut husk compost disc which expands when watered, and 1 wooden plant maker.
a a
L.L. Bean Auto Aid in Bottle Whether you're planning a road trip or staying close to home, this thoughtful kit was put together to give you peace of mind with the safety essentials you'll need in an emergency. The 32-oz water bottle holds a forever flashlight (no batteries required), utility knife, screwdriver, digital tire gauge, safety flasher, reflective vest and poncho.
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 73
PreMedLife Magazine don’t worry IT’S FREE... (we know you’re probably broke)
Subscribe Today For more information about PreMedLife Magazine, visit us online at www.premedlife.com
twitter.com/premedlife 74 | PreMedLife Magazine | September/October 2011
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IN THE STACKS
Books we thought that aspiring doctors might be interested in reading<<<
STAYING HUMAN DURING RESIDENCY TRAINING: HOW TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE AFTER MEDICAL SCHOOL by Allan D. Peterkin, MD Although it is a manual designed for medical students and the years beyond, it would not hurt to get a peek at what is to come in your future. From coping with stress, choosing a residency program to protecting personal and professional relationships, Dr. Allan Peterkin covers all bases of what may be in store for you as a resident in medical school. Not only useful for medical residents, the book also provides hundreds of practical tips on coping with sleep deprivation and time pressures. BLUE COLLAR, BLUE SCRUBS: THE MAKING OF A SURGEON by Dr. Michael J. Collins From his days as a construction worker to his entry into medical school, Dr. Michael Collins tells a story about his journey to become a doctor. Giving a candid account of the reality of medical school, Dr. Collins tells stories about the rote memorization in medical school, the petty tasks assigned to an on-call medical student, and the shock as a fourth year medical student, of finding his intern had committed suicide. For a glimpse into the deep and personal thoughts of what doctoring is like, Dr. Collins shares with readers his experiences with medicine from the very first time he delivered a baby to what it is like for him to be surrounded by death and pain on a constant basis. SHORT WHITE COAT: LESSONS FROM PATIENTS ON BECOMING A DOCTOR by James A. Feinstein, MD For all of the numerous medical school memoirs that fail to share experiences of the third year of medical school, Dr. James A. Feinstein takes on the job of telling it like it is - the clinical year that is. Written when he was a third-year student at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Feinstein describes lessons learned from his very first patients. Along the way, he learns from his own mistakes before discovering the answer to the question that plagues every medical student: "Do I have what it takes to become a doctor?" THE FINE ART OF SMALL TALK: HOW TO START A CONVERSATION, KEEP IT GOING, BUILD NETWORKING SKILLS - AND LEAVE A POSITIVE IMPRESSION! by Debra Fine You may be saying to yourself, "the art of small talk, what does that have to do with becoming a doctor," but if you know what's best for your future in medicine, you would know that from your medical school interview to your interaction with patients, the art of conversation is quite important. Focusing on when the gift of gab will work in your favor would be your medical school interview of course and as the book's title implies, you are going to want to know how to leave a positive impression. In her book, Debra Fine, a nationally recognized communication expert, shares the techniques and strategies anyone, including pre-medical students, can use to make the best of any conversation - like the conversation you'll be having with your medical school interviewer perhaps. In addition, this book will help readers learn to feel more comfortable in any type of situation - once again, like the conversation you'll be having with your medical school interviewer. So if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t gotten the hint - this book will help prepare for nailing your medical school interview.
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BETTERLIFEBETTERYOU
>>> Information on taking care of yourself as a student living a busy pre-med life
newstouse
Health | Wellness | Fitness | Nutrition | Mind & Body
Exercising May Be Linked to Lower Depression Risk
According to findings published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, researchers found that women who reported exercising the most in recent years were about 20 percent less likely to get depression than those who rarely exercised. Turns out, however, the more hours they spent watching TV each week, the more their risk of depression rose. The study, which involved thousands of women, also revealed that more time being active might boost selfesteem and women's sense of control, as well as the endorphins in their blood, although the study could not prove directly that watching too much television and avoiding exercise cause depression. "Higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower depression risk," wrote study author Michel Lucas, from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.
Diet Rich in Certain Foods Helps Promote Brain Health Researchers who conducted a study on diet patterns have reported that eating a diet rich in certain vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids and low in trans fats may be best for brain health. "The combination of the B vitamins, the antioxidants C and E, plus vitamin D was the most favorable combination of nutrients in the blood for healthy brain aging in our population," says study author Gene L. Bowman, ND, MPH, assistant professor of neurology at the Layton Aging & Alzheimer's Disease Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland. For the study, forty-two men and women had MRI scans to measure brain volume. When the research team evaluated how much of the risk of declining mental abilities were attributed to diet and how much to other factors, such as age or high blood pressure, they
found that those most consistently linked to brain health were the vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and trans fats. Bowman said he agrees that the standard advice to eat more fruits and vegetables and fish and avoid trans fats seems wise. Although maybe not at the top of your food choice list, sardines, flax seeds and walnuts are excellent food sources of omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to eating healthy, many experts also say that diet only plays a part in making sure your brain stays health. Getting the proper amount of sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding certain â&#x20AC;&#x153;unhealthy behaviorsâ&#x20AC;? like smoking and drinking alcohol, are also a part of keeping your mental status in check. The study is published online in the journal Neurology.
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Mother/Child Bond Linked to Greater Risk Teenage Obesity
Study Proposes Printing New Info on Unhealthy Foods
Kids who start out with bad relationships with their mothers are more likely to end up obese as teens, a new study has revealed. The study, which involved 977 children, found specifically, that those who had poor emotional bonds with their mothers as toddlers were more than twice as likely to become obese by 15 years old, compared with children who had healthy relationships. In other words, the less secure the children's early bond with their mom was, the greater their chances of obesity. More than one-quarter of the toddlers who had the lowest-quality relationships with their mothers were obese as teens, compared with 13 percent of those who had closer bonds with their mothers in their early years, according to the report pub-
lished online and in the January print issue of the Journal of Pediatrics. "It is possible that childhood obesity could be influenced by interventions that try to improve the emotional bonds between mothers and children rather than focusing only on children's food intake and activity," lead author Sarah Anderson, an assistant professor of epidemiology, said in an Ohio State University news release. "Sensitive parenting increases the likelihood that a child will have a secure patter of attachment and develop a health response to stress," explained Anderson. "A well-regulated stress response could in turn influence how well children sleep and whether they eat in response to emotional distress - just two factors that affect the likelihood for obesity."
In a new study, research from Johns Hopkins University believe that printing a 'physical activity equivalent' on unhealthy drinks and snacks will reduce their popularity if the evidence is easy-to-understand, and right in front of them. For the study, researchers posted three different signs outside corner shops to see which was best at deterring young people from drinking high-calorie fizzy beverages. One sign asked if the consumer knew that the average can of fizzy pop contains 250 calories. The other asked if they knew that the drink is 10% of their recommended daily intake. The third revealed that a fizzy drink would take 50 minutes of running to counteract the soaring sugar and calorie content. Researchers discovered that although the calorie information was effective (sales dropped by 40%), the physical activity equivalent was the most shocking to teens, as the drink sales dropped by 50%. "People generally underestimate the number of calories in the foods and beverages they consume," said Dr. Sara Bleich, one of the researchers involved with the study. "Providing easily understandable caloric information-particularly in the form of a physical activity equivalent, such as running - may reduce calorie intake from sugar - sweetened beverages and increase water consumption among adolescents."
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 77
BETTERLIFEBETTERYOU
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS Tips for a Healthier
2012 by MAYA VADIVELOO, MS RD
A
s a dietitian, each January, friends, family, acquaintances, and even strangers will ask for advice on how to recover from two months of holiday eating. Usually they want to know whether I recommend various fads – such as juice fasts or boot camp regimes - to completely revamp their diet at great personal sacrifice. People are usually surprised to find that my advice is less about making drastic changes and more about making small, lasting changes to your current lifestyle that make you feel good in the long run. If you are looking to make changes with the New Year, consider these suggestions for a happier, healthier 2012: A JOURNEY OF 1000 MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP Making changes to your lifestyle isn’t easy, but the good news is that little things matter. In the New Year, take a look at your health habits and identify the areas where you already make healthy choices. From that foundation, it is easier to choose areas you think you could improve without much difficulty as well as long-term goals. Then, start small - pick something to work on that you could imagine doing the rest of the year. Maybe you want to walk a longer route to work, drink more water, or have an apple a day. Any step is a positive step. For example, you can lose 12 pounds in a year and keep it off if you eliminate one soda a day from your diet rather than trying a crash diet. BE NICE TO YOURSELF A big part of having a healthier lifestyle is learning to take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Be your own cheerleader and find time each day where you are doing something to nourish yourself physically or emotionally. Be compassionate - remember that changing is hard, and not adopting a new behavior perfectly is normal. The best way to succeed in adopting healthier habits is to forgive yourself for your mistakes, and
Making changes to your lifestyle isn’t easy, but the good news is that little things matter
do the best you can every day or every meal to make a healthy choice for yourself. VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE The key to sticking to a healthier diet is to enjoy what you’re eating, and one way to enjoy your food is to expose yourself to new, interesting flavors regularly. Challenge yourself to try a new fruit, vegetable, or whole grain every week. Try new recipes or visit your local farmer’s market to try foods that may be in season. DON’T THROW OUT THE BABY WITH THE BATHWATER Many newly health conscious people I meet make drastic changes to their eating habits when trying to lose weight – suddenly someone with an Italian heritage has given up all pasta and carbohydrates in pursuit of “eating healthier.” In reality, all foods are okay when consumed in moderation and depriving yourself completely of foods you love usually leads to overeating later on. WEIGHT IS ONLY ONE INDICATOR OF HEALTH Try to consider many health indicators when you are evaluating whether the changes you are making improve your health. How is your energy level and mood? How is your hair and complexion? Have you lowered your blood pressure or cholesterol? Do you feel stronger? Sometimes we discount these things
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which are less visible than a number on a scale, but in reality, many of these indicators matter more for overall health and happiness. FRIENDS MAKE THINGS MORE FUN Enroll a friend in your health pursuits. Interested in healthy cooking or learning to salsa dance? Encouraging a health-minded friend to join you will make it more likely that you will stick with your new habit throughout the year THE BIGGEST THREAT TO A HEALTHY DIET IS HUNGER We are hardwired to seek highly palatable, calorieladen convenience foods when we don’t feed ourselves sufficiently or regularly. Most people need to eat every 3-4 hours in order to keep hunger at bay. Set yourself up for success by spacing out your eating at regular intervals throughout the day and paying close attention to not become too hungry or too full. SLOW DOWN It takes 20 minutes for your stomach to tell your brain that you are starting to feel full. Eating too quickly doesn’t give you a chance to know how full you actually are. Try sitting down for a meal and take at least 20 minutes to enjoy your food- you may find that you eat less without thinking about it.
Cheers!
SAVE THE DATE
SUMMA CONFERENCE 2012 02.11.12
SUMMA CONFERENCE 2012 Workshop Highlights: - Applying to Medical School - MCAT Preparation - Making Yourself a Better Applicant - Research Pathways -Mock Interviews - Maintaining a Science GPA - AMCAS Application Process - Post Baccalaureate Programs - Women in Medicine - International & Global Health - Careers in Health - Affording Medical School - Civic Activism & Community Engagement - Life in Medical School
STANFORD UNIVERSITY MINORITY MEDICAL ALLIANCE 21st ANNUAL PREMEDICAL CONFERENCE
Saturday, February 11, 2012 at Stanford University School of Medicine Every year, Stanford University Minority Medical Alliance (SUMMA) hosts one of the largest pre-medical conferences on the west coast, typically drawing approximately 500 attendees each year. The goal of the conference is to increase diversity in the health professions to better care for underserved communities. Conference Highlights: - Medical school recruiters from around the country - Speakers on future of minorities in medicine - Assess what you want in a medical school - Summer enrichment and opportunities
ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 2011 http://summa.stanford.edu/conference/
THE STRENGTH TO HEAL
and learn lessons in courage. We’ll pay you $2,062 a month while you are in a residency program. This monthly living expense will help you gain the strength to heal. In addition, you’ll gain experience with top medical professionals and the most advanced technology. You’ll be able to practice in your community and serve when needed. You’ll be helping our Soldiers, your country and your career. To learn more, call 877-406-5863 or visit healthcare.goarmy.com/info/n474.
©2011. Paid for by the United States Army. All rights reserved.
BETTERLIFEBETTERYOU
TOP five
TIME-SUCKS by KORINNE KUBENA BELOCK
1. WORKING WITHOUT A TO-DO LIST You spend more time figuring out what to do or completing nonessential tasks than really studying. To be most effective, keep a long-term "master" To-Do list; a weekly To-Do list; and each evening, quickly jot down the tasks you want to complete the next day. You'll be focused and know what you need to get done.
2. NOT SCHEDULING YOUR TASKS Once you have your daily To-Do list, estimate how long each task might take and then schedule those tasks into your calendar. If you haven't planned time to get something done, it's not going to happen.
3. POOR LOGISTICAL PLANNING This is especially critical for students that are off campus often for work or meetings. You know
PICTURE THIS: You sit down with your computer and organic chemistry books, focused and ready to power through your studies for the day. Fast-forward to an hour later: You're browsing your favorite blog checking out the latest posts.
Minutes spent studying: 0 Minutes spent reading blogs: 57 You've just experienced a time-suck, a classic time management pitfall. And, like any pitfall, it's all about identifying them and knowing how to avoid them.
what I meanâ&#x20AC;Ś somehow you have a 10:00 a.m. class on campus, a lunch meeting on the other side of town, classes in the afternoon, and another meeting back on the other side of town that evening. Finally, you're heading back to campus to study well into the night. Not a good use of your time. To the extent possible, manage your schedule based on location. Then, the evening before your meetings, plan your route to figure out the quickest way to get from point to point.
4. CONSTANTLY MONITORING EMAIL AND SOCIAL MEDIA Responding to email as it comes in, especially when it's not urgent, takes your focus away from other tasks. Schedule time on your calendar 10:00 a.m., noon, 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. - to quickly review email and respond to urgent messages. For all other messages, respond before you go to bed. And, while you're at it, schedule time for
Facebook, Twitter, and reading your favorite blogs-preferably during your lunch break or at the end of the day.
5. YOUR STUDY BUDDY, CHATTY CATHY Although she's always ready to rehash last night's episode of The Real Housewives of Orange County, it's not a good use of your time. Practice the polite exit. Something like: "Cathy, can we catch up a little later? I'm struggling with this assignment." That's definitely an excuse anyone can understand and respect. KORINNE KUBENA BELOCK is the founder and owner of Urban Simplicity (www.urbansimplicitynyc.com). Korinne combines a passion for an organized world and a love of problem solving with a sense of humor, cheerful attitude, Southern charm, and the persistence to get results for her clients. Follow Korinne: Facebook.com/UrbanSimplicity Twitter @UrbanSimplicity
January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 81
COLLEGE101
>>> Helpful advice to manage and deal with life as a college student
DON’T BE A FOLLOWER*
Be a leader! As a pre-med student, you’ve probably heard this many times already but don’t let it go in one ear and out the other. You may hear these words often but do you really know what being a leader means? Well, first of all, being a leader can mean different things because there are many different types of leaders and many different leadership experiences one can have. If you haven’t already realized it, college is one of the best - if not the best - places to develop your leadership skills. And because being a leader is such an important characteristic to have as a doctor, you might as well get started on honing in on this skill now. Being a leader doesn’t always mean that you are presiding over a group of people. You could be a leader in an intellectual way by asking probing questions during class, helping fellow classmates out who may be struggling with a certain topic, or even organizing a study group. Another way to develop your leadership skills is by learning how to effectively collaborate with others. As you prepare for a future in medi*Except for when you follow us on Twitter @premedlife of course!
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cine, your ability to work with others is critical to your success as a doctor. Knowing how to work with others in a group and even take on the leadership role within this group is a difficult skill and one that not many people can say they have. But like any other skill, it is one that can be developed over time. It is quite important that you put yourself in situations where you are able to develop your leadership skills. From working in groups for lab projects to planning events for your pre-med society or organization, there are many opportunities to develop and refine your leadership skills. While it may be an uncomfortable situation for some, stepping into a leadership role will only make you a better individual, and better doctor, in the long run. Having leadership skills in your “back pocket” and being able to pull them out when you need to is priceless. No one said that you have to be a leader 24/7, but knowing how to delegate, facilitate, and coordinate is a skill that will come in handy at many different points in your life. So step up to the plate and make something happen.
Global Healthcare for Pre-Health Students Montevideo, Uruguay: Maymester and Summer I, 2012 Dr. Lynette Austin, assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, teaches in the areas of child language, bilingualism, and cultural/linguistic diversity. She is also a licensed bilingual speech-language pathologist. Dr. Austin and her husband Stephen served as missionaries while living in Buenos Aires for a number of years, along with their children Alison and Daniel. During that time she worked in private practice as a speech-pathologist and as a consultant to hospitals and schools in the Greater Buenos Aires region.! Dr. Cynthia Powell is an assistant professor in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at ACU. She is the chairman of the ACU Health Professions Advisory Committee and the ACU pre-medical advisor. She enjoys working with students, traveling and learning about new cultures. She and her husband Dr. Greg Powell (professor of Chemistry) participated in this program in 2010 and she is excited to be involved again.
The Courses CHEM 340 – World Healthcare Systems – Provides students with knowledge of how health care is provided to various socioeconomic groups in both the United States and Uruguay, comparing the strengths and weaknesses of each system. Students will participate in medical missions clinics and visit professional schools and public and private hospitals in South America. This course is required for all program participants and will count as an upper-level chemistry elective. CORE 220 – The Question of Community – Asks questions of community and explores the foundations of human communities around the world. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the course will examine such influences on communities as culture, politics, ethics, morality, history, economics, gender, religion, the arts, institutions and natural resources. Other topics impacting communities will be discussed, including social justice, poverty, affluence, war and the influence of technology. COMP 353 – Hearing Rehabilitation – Explores habilitation and rehabilitation for persons with hearing impairment. Theory and practice of acoustic amplification, auditory training, speech reading, speech habilitation, and educational considerations for the hearing impaired. Educational programming, cultural influences and social adjustments for the deaf. Please speak with the administrative coordinator in Communication Sciences and Disorders Dept. about any necessary prerequisites. Students must be enrolled in two courses, including World Healthcare Systems. All courses may be subject to change.
Program Features
• Great central location in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, a country that boasts a unique blend of European and Latin American cultures. • Planned class-related excursions including Buenos Aires (Argentina) and Iguazu Falls (Brazil). • Health clinic held at the El Chana Church of Christ in conjunction with needs of the local congregation.
The Cost Tuition and fees are the same in Latin America as they are in Abilene (2012-2013 rates). The additional program fee of $5,500-6,000 includes: • Transportation between DFW and Montevideo • Housing in Casa ACU • Program-related excursions and enrichment activities • Basic medical and traveler’s insurance • 10 meals per week Just as in Abilene, student aid may be available. Talk to your financial aid advisor as soon as possible. Call 325-674-2300.
Application Acceptance to the Global Healthcare in Latin America program is based on a variety of factors including: • Completed application packet with satisfactory references. • Availability of space. • $250 non-refundable application fee. • Completion of at least two semesters on campus. • Academic record and interests, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 as of date of application and up to date of departure. • Students must be in good standing with ACU (no probation of any kind) as of date of application and up to date of departure. • Application Deadline: Nov. 4 (May be extended in special cases: please see a study abroad representative for details.) Note: Consideration also will be given to a student’s suitability for participation in a study abroad program.
Further Information All information on this flyer is subject to change without notice. Please contact the ACU Study Abroad office for the most up-to-date information. Mail: ACU Box 28226, Abilene, Texas 79699-8226 Office: Hardin Administration Building 124 Phone: 325-674-2710 Email: study_abroad@acu.edu Web: www.acu.edu/studyabroad 110509
INSTEAD OF JUST HANGING OUT ON SATURDAYS
I HELP KIDS HANG IN THERE
AT SCHOOL BECAUSE I DON’T JUST WEAR THE SHIRT, I LIVE IT. ®
GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. LIVE UNITED Michael Cleveland is part of United Way’s ongoing work to improve the education, income, and health of our communities. To find out how you can help create opportunities for a better life for all, visit LIVEUNITED.ORG.
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