PreMedLife Magazine - January-February 2012

PREMEDLIFETM

SchoolSpotlight

Drexel UniversityCollege of Medicine

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012THE MAGAZINE FOR PREMEDICAL STUDENTS

TOP 1100CITIES FORMEDICALSCHOOL

2012Summer

PreMed

Program List

Included!

3344 PPAAGGEESS

Yoga Poses for Premeds p.14 | Things Your Interviewer Won’t Say p.38 | Hand-Delivered Acceptances p.8

We’re Just Not That Into You

6 reasons why medicalschools reject applicants

Post Finals DetoxPreparing for theSpring semester

Especially This SpecialtyBecoming a

nocturnist

+Find Out Which Cities Made Our List for theBest Places to Attend Medical School

TheF

itnes

sGro

up

For fitness tips, exercise tutorials, healthnews, events, and workout programs

check out The Fitness Group at www.healthandwellness.weebly.com

January/February 2012 | PreMedLife Magazine | 3

FEATURES Top 10 Cities for Medical School| 16Find out which cities made our list for the bestplaces to attend medical school

We’re Just Not That Into You| 32Ever wonder why medical schools reject appli-cants? Here are 6 reasons why some don’t cut it

DEPARTMENTSSchool Spotlight| 29Get a glimpse into what the State University ofNew York Upstate Medical University has to offer

Especially This Specialty | 37Find out what being a Nocturnist isall about and what it will take to become one

IN EVERY ISSUENewsbites| 8Recent news & information relevant to students applying to medical school

The Goods| 72Gadgets & gizmos to keep you entertained. From acoffee plant to cool bookends, these items are sureto make you smile.

In The Stacks| 75Books to inspire you or provide you with advice along your journey to medical school

Better Life, Better You| 76Advice & tips for taking care of yourself tomake it through your hectic pre-med life

-New Year’s Resolutions: Tips for a Healthier 2012-Top 5 Time-Sucks

College 101| 82Here are some things that every studentattending college should know

IN THIS ISSUEYoga for Premeds | 14Poses to boost brain power and reduce stress

Post Finals Detox | 30Preparing yourself for the Spring semester

5 Things Your Interviewer Won’t Say| 38What your medical school interviewer is thinkingbut won’t say to you

CONTENTS38 32

16

30

January/February 2012www.premedlife.com

Exclusively oon tthe WWebPreMedLife magazine provides a host offeatures, covering everything from getting into medical school to tips for acing the MCAT,promoting the optimal status and candidacy forpre-medical students. Visit www.premedlife.comoften to get online exclusive articles covering thetopics that pre-med students care about

HEY, COFFEE LOVERS - Check out The Goods to findout how you can grow your very own coffee plant!

p.72

4 | PreMedLife Magazine | January/February 2012

from the

I'm all for making New Year's resolution, but this yearI'm adding an extra which is to actually keep my reso-lutions. Let's face it, not many people who say they'regoing to do something for the New Year end up fol-lowing through with it. It's important that you staycommitted 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 opportunityfor you to make things right. And if last year wasn't such a bad year, make 2012 betterthan 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 imagi-nation. As the saying goes, "whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it canachieve." So if you're able to see yourself strutting your stuff in your signature scrubslet your imagination run wild because it will help motivate you to do what you have todo to reach your dreams. So as I picture myself pressing the period button on the key-board to end off my New Year's publisher's letter, I have to admit that I once againfeel a little sense of accomplishment.

Sheema PrincePublisher

SShheeeemmaa

publisherPublisher/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, LorettaHines, Anne McGrath, Randy Newman, DaveO’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 @premedlifeFind us on Facebook.com/premedlife

PREMEDLIFEthe magazine for premedical students

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PreMedLife magazine is published six times per year by KishoMedia, LLC. and copies are provided to select colleges and uni-versities free of charge. The information in PreMedLife maga-zine is believed to be accurate, but in some instances, may rep-resent opinion or judgment. Consult your pre-med advisorwith any questions you may have about the medical schooladmission process and related topics. Unless otherwise noted,all photographs, artwork, and and may not be duplicated orreprinted without express written permission from KishoMedia, LLC. PreMedLife magazine and Kisho Media, LLC. arenot liable for typographical or production errors or the accura-cy of information provided by advertisers. PreMedLifeMagazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising. Allinquires may be sent to: Kisho Media, LLC. P.O. Box 7049,New York, NY 10116. Or call (347) 231-6429 or [email protected].

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Diana AltamiranoPost Baccalaureate @ Georgia Gwinnett CollegeDiana is a non-traditional studentwith a business degree. She is cur-rently taking science classes as apre-med post-baccalaureate student.

Tamara EdginBiology @ University of ArkansasCommunity College at BatesvilleTamara is currently workingtowards an associates degree andplans to transfer to Lyon College,a four-year university.

Jaime GarciaInternational Economics @ University ofWashingtonJamie is the first in his family toattend college. He has gained experi-ence in the medical field and is cur-rently an emergency room volunteer.

Ola HadayaMiddle Eastern Studies @ RutgersUniversity, New BrunswickOla is a 17-year-old student who isin the process of applying to medicalschool. She speaks 3 languages.

Chesha HayterBiomedical @ Southern OregonUniversityChesha is a non-traditional studentand a mother, who after starting hereducation later in life has learnedmany things.

Hillary LeeNeural Science @ New York UniversityHillary will start on the pre-medtract in Fall 2012. She says her tran-sition from Missouri is an experi-ence she can share to help otherslike herself.

Alexandra MassaNeuroscience @ Stonehill CollegeAlexandra is currently a volunteer ather local hospital’s emergency depart-ment. She is interested in providingcare to third-world countries whereaccess to medical supplies are limited.

Linda MukumbutaBiology & Public Health @ Universityof Texas, San AntonioLinda is a 19-year-old junior who iscurrently affiliated with 4 pre-medorganizations. She says a career inmedicine is truly her calling in life.

Touria RguigBiochemistry @ University ofTexas, AustinTouria is a honors student whospeaks 6 languages. She’s also anauthor on a research paper publishedin Synthetic Metals Journal.

Will SmithPost Baccalaureate @ California StateUniversity, SacramentoWill is a non-traditional pre-medstudent with a degree in compara-tive religion. He has worked as anER tech.

Chandler StisherBiology @ University of Texas, AustinChandler is the first in his family toattend a 4-year university and hashad aspirations of becoming a doc-tor since he was 11 years old.

Marina ZeledonBiology @ Potsdam State UniversityMarina likes to read, research, andtalk about medical school journeyswith current doctors. She is on herschool’s equestrian team and has astrong passion to become a doctor.

THE PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE STUDENT ADVISORYBOARD IS AN EXEMPLARY GROUP OF PREMED STU-DENTS from a variety of backgrounds who have a widerange of accomplishments. They will help keep usinformed about what we need to know to makePreMedLife magazine the go-to resource for aspiringdoctors. If you have any questions for any of our board mem-bers email us at [email protected] >>>

studentstudentadadvisorvisoryyboardboard

Tiffany Que-SmithArt & Design @ San Jose State UniversityTiffany is a non-traditional studentwho translates her thoughts into artwhich luckily for her, is extremelyhelpful when studying.

THE TWEET PEEK

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER.COM@PREMEDLIFE

FOR DAILY UPDATESLIKE THESE

OPEN BOOK POLICY"With few exceptions, medi-cine is open-book" say a grp

of profs "all exams in all sub-jects should b open-book"

bit.ly/rJIUHT

QUOTE TO MOTIVATE"Do what you HAVE to doNOW, so you can do whatyou WANT to do LATER"

DOLLA BILLS YA’LL@uabmedicine will offer new$10,000/year scholarship toencourage med students togo into primary care field

bit.ly/teA5ze

MAKING ORGO FUNMaybe orgo wouldn't be so

bad if every class were like anepisode of "The Magic

School Bus"

GETTING INTips for #MedSchool

Application Success: Be sureyour application shows whoyou are now, and not when

you were a child

GOOD READCalling yourself Doctor and

what that now meansis.gd/glOsLL

HASHTAGGINGChanneling my inner surgeonplaying the game "Operation"

#PrimaryschoolmemoriesWait...how does removing allthe organs make u a winner?

PREMED SWAGDon't be a book-smart stu-dent with no social skills.

Premeds can have #swag too!

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NEWSBITES>>> Recent news & information relevant to students applying to medical school

Many Pre-meds Get Turned off byScience in College, Study ShowsAccording to an article published in the New YorkTimes, studies have found that roughly 40 percentof students planning engineering and sciencemajors end up switching to other subjects or fail toeven get their undergraduate degree at all.According to data put out by the University ofCalifornia at Los Angeles, that number jumps to asmuch as 60 percent when pre-medical students,who usually have the strongest SAT scores andhigh school science preparation, are included.

"We're losing an alarming proportion of ournation's science talent once the students get to col-lege," says Mitchel J. Chang, an education profes-sor at UCLA who has done research on the topic.

Apparently, educators are racking their brainstrying to figure out just how to keep studentsinterested as they move from elementary and sec-ondary school into college. Remember how muchfun your science class was back in sixth grade?Well, as it turns out, the younger generation ofstudents have a great deal of fun soaking eggs invinegar to get the shell to dissolve and testingattraction with a set of magnets.

"The excitement quickly fades as students brushup against the reality of the math-science deathmarch," said David E. Goldberg, an emeritus engi-neering professor. "Freshman in college wadethrough a blizzard of calculus, physics and chemistry

in lecture halls with hundreds of other students. Andthen many wash out," Goldberg told the New YorkTimes. Difficult and complex by nature, the pre-med-ical major presents a number of factors, includingtough freshman courses, that quickly translates todeterrents among the student population.

But there is hope for those pre-medical stu-dents who are thinking about bailing on theirdreams of becoming a doctor because for thosestudents who do not already know it - being a pre-medical student does not mean that one has to bemarried to a science major. There are tons of stu-dents who pursue other majors and still go off toapply and enter medical school too.

To break the news that applicants have gain admission totheir school, officials at the University of MichiganMedical School hand-delivered acceptance letters to stu-dents in Ann Arbor, Dallas, Boston, Washington, D.C.,and East Lansing.

Since school officials were already going to be in thosecities taking care of other business, Robert Ruiz, who isthe medical school's admission director, thought itwould be good for the school to maximize its resourcesand brighten the day of an unsuspecting admit. "It's allabout having a little bit of fun with an otherwise stress-ful process," Ruiz commented. The school, which isalready heavily invested in social media, has an activeadmission Twitter account and a Facebook page solelyfor admitted students.

They regularly post questions, tips, and polls tokeep admits connected to the school and updated ondeadlines. In addition, admitted students also getelectronic birthday cards emailed to them on theirbirthday. Ruiz partly attributes the rise in applica-tions to the school's embracing social media. "Thesocial media stuff is helping, to be honest," Ruiz saidof the large applicant pool.

In addition, the school holds regular online chatsto answer any questions that prospective studentsmay have. “The chats and social media make theapplication process, which can be intimidating, easi-er on potential students, who spend significantmoney on the application and, if granted an inter-view, travel to the school,” Ruiz noted.

Med SchoolHand-DeliversAdmissionsAcceptanceLetters


For the pre-medical students who are planningon taking the MCAT in 2015, the Association ofAmerican Medical College ( AAMC) releasedwhat they call a blueprint for the new exam. Theguide, which describes the new exam's contentand format, outlines the exam's foundationalconcepts, content categories, and scientificinquiry and reasoning skills. So what's differentabout the new exam? Here are three things thatare changing:

The natural sciences sections of MCAT2015reflect recent changes in medical education.They test the concepts in biology, general andorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and physics thatmedical school faculty rate as most important toentering students' success. Though undergradu-ate course offerings differ by institution, theseconcepts are covered in many undergraduateschools in introductory sequences in biology,general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physicsand in first-semester biochemistry courses.

MCAT2015 includes a section on the socialand behavioral sciences: Psychological, Social

and Biological Foundations of Behavior. Thissection tests a student’s knowledge of importantintroductory psychology and sociology concepts,as well as the introductory biology concepts thatrelate to mental processes and behavior. Theaddition of this section to the exam recognizesthe importance of socio-cultural and behavioraldeterminants of health and health outcomes.

The Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skillssection is also new. This section asks students toanalyze, evaluate, and apply information provid-ed by passages from a wide range of social sci-ences and humanities disciplines. It does notrequire specific knowledge of these disciplines,but it tests the analysis and reasoning skills youneed for medical school, and may prompt you toread broadly as you prepare. Along with manyothers, passages about ethics and philosophy,cross-cultural studies and population health areincluded.This latest preview of the new MCAT wasreleased on Nov. 1. For access visithttp://bit.ly/vnn0nr

NEWSBITESAAMC's Newly Released Guide GivesPremeds Preview of Revised MCAT

The rising Hispanic population in the US hasprompted a Baylor University linguist to develop acourse for students pursuing health careers. Dr.Karol Hardin, an assistant professor of Spanish atthe university, says that she tailored the course tomeet the crucial need for medical professionals tocross language and cultural barriers.

The classes are taught almost completely inSpanish, with emphasis on oral proficiency andcomprehension rather than simply memorizingmedical terminology.

"While some students may establish practicesoverseas or become medical missionaries inSpanish-speaking countries," Dr. Hardin notes,"those who stay in the United States would be wiseto have a grasp on conversation medical Spanish toserve Hispanic patients, some of who may speaklittle or no English.

Dr. Hardin says the undergraduate method she usesfor her course is better than textbook or onlineapproaches that some students may pursue on theirown. "For example, while translating "cardiovascular"in Spanish is excellent, and proper verb conjugation issomething to strive for, it is equally - or more - impor-

tant to correctly greet a patient or to learn to softenbad news," Dr. Hardin explained. "Your grammar canbe poor, but if you're not polite, patients won't comeback to you.

Baylor's program began with two intermediate class-es for those who plan to enter the medical field, with25 students each, and Baylor added a third class for Fall2012 to meet demand.

"I just want to be prepared," said Eric Cline, aBaylor junior who wants to be a surgeon. "I'malready pretty fluent in Spanish, and this is a reviewfor me in grammar. But the emphasis is to cultivatea personal relationship with patients, and talking tothem in their native language is more personal."

For more information about Baylor University visitwww.baylor.edu.

Baylor Offers MedicalSpanish Course for Premeds


NEWSBITES

If Jal Jenson, founding dean of WesternMichigan University, gets his way studentsattending the planned School of Medicine willspend no more than an hour a day in lectures -instead of six or seven hours - and introducethem into a clinical setting for hands-on learn-ing within the first few weeks of their first year.

"The traditional model for medical educa-tion with 200 or so students sitting in a hall lec-ture is very efficient, but not very effective,"said Jenson. "We know that's not how studentslearn. Adults learn by experiential learning andwe learn by getting involved."

The school, which plans to begin accept-ing applications from prospective studentsin early 2013, will grow to take in 80 stu-dents annually over a few years.

"We're changing the model of educa-tion," Jenson said during a keynote addressat a Business Review round table discussion."We have a real chance (at WMU) toleapfrog and leap ahead."

For more information about WMUSchool of Medicine visitwww.wmich.edu/medicine.

New Medical SchoolSays Later for Lectures

Here’s a list of new medical schoolsthat are being developed in the U.S.

MEDICAL SCHOOL PIPELINE

To help fill a physician shortage expected towiden as national health reform takes hold,the University of Denver (DU) is consider-ing the launch of a medical school.

"To determine if the University couldhelp to fill this serious health services gap,we are embarking on a study to determinethe feasibility of opening a medical schoolhere on the DU campus with a focus ontraining primary care physicians," said DUChancellor Robert Coombe.

National studies estimate that the U.S.will be short 40,000 primary-care doctors by2020 because of demands of healthreform's expanded insurance coverage andthe attraction of higher-paying specialties.

According to a press release announcingthe move, the creation of a medical schoolat the south Denver campus would bolster aDU visibility drive that has also built newbusiness, law and fine-arts centers, andpushed Division I sports in recent years.

Colorado May Step Up to Fill PhysicianGap with Brand New Medical School

twitt

erta

lk "Stress Management 101" should be a #medschool prereq too! Nearly90% of docs feel stressed every day http://bit.ly/vmRPaU"

If you need to: Create an alter ego to deal with Organic Chem, like @nickiminajcreated 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"

CALIFORNIA NORTHSTATEUNIVERSITYCOLLEGE OF MEDICINERancho Cordova, CaliforniaAnticipated TBA

WESTERN MICHIGANUNIVERSITY SCHOOL OFMEDICINEKalamazoo, MichiganAnticipated Fall 2014

PALM BEACH MEDICALCOLLEGEPalm Beach, FloridaAnticipated TBA

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA,RIVERSIDE SCHOOL OFMEDICINERiverside, CaliforniaAnticipated Fall 2012

CENTRAL MICHIGANUNIVERSITY SCHOOL OFMEDICINEMount Pleasant, MichiganAnticipated Fall 2012

COOPER MEDICAL SCHOOLOF ROWAN UNIVERSITYCamden, New JerseyAnticipated Fall 2012

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHCAROLINA SCHOOL OFMEDICINE, GREENVILLEGreenville, South CarolinaAnticipated Fall 2012

QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITYSCHOOL OF MEDICINENorth Haven, ConnecticutAnticipated Fall 2013 or 2014

UPDATED 10/2011

@premedlife


According to new data released by theAssociation of American Medical Colleges,the number of first-time applicants to med-ical school reached an all-time high in 2011,increasing 2.6 percent over 2010 to 32,654.

"This demonstrates without a doubt thatmedicine remains a very attractive career toundergraduates," said AAMC President andCEO Darrell G. Kirch, M.D. "We are verypleased that medicine continues to be attrac-tive at a time when our health care systemfaces many challenges."

DIVERSITYData showed that medical school first-yearenrollment increased by 3 percent over 2010data, with 19,230 students entering the 2011class. In addition, for the second year in arow, the total number of applicants andenrollees from most major racial and ethnicgroups increased. "We are encouraged thatthe pool of medical school applicants andenrollees continues to be more diverse," saidDr. Kirch. "Given the health care needs ofthis nation, it is important that medicalschools have high-quality applicants fromacross the board spectrum of racial and eth-nic groups, because we need a health caresystem that can deliver high-quality care tothis changing population.”

GRADES & GPAWith the average GPA and median MCATscore unchanged over last year, at 3.5 and29, respectively, medical school applicantsalso remained academically competitive."We certainly continue to attract excep-tionally well-qualified individuals whohave strong academic credentials," notedDr. Kirch.

COMMUNITY SERVICEWith nearly 83 percent of applicants report-ing volunteer experience in medical or clini-cal settings, community service has shownitself to be a top priority for both applicantsand enrollees. In addition, 90 percent ofenrollees said they hope to be involved inextracurricular community service whileattending medical school.

In Tough Times, Medicine Still VeryAttractive 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

NEWSBITES

w w w . p r e m e d s u r g e r y . o r g

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 thephysicians 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 andreturning students are welcome as well). This program seeks to foster a relationship between physicians andpre-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!

UC DAVISDEPARTMENT OF SURGERY

Pre-Medical Surgical Internship& Mentorship Program

Become a Fan:premedsurgery.org/facebook

Follow Us:twitter.com/premedsurg


YOGAFO

Rpremeds You may be surprise what a little bit of yoga can do for as a premed. From ener-gizing 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, Reducesfatigue and anxiety, Relieves

headache and insomnia

Downward-Facing Dog

Increases blood flow to thebrain and helps relieve stress

and mild depression,Energizes the body, Relieves

insomnia and fatigue

Upward-Facing Dog

Calms the brain and helpsrelieve stress and mild depres-

sion, Energizes the body,Relieves headache, insomnia,

back pain, and fatigue

Upward Salute

Helps relieve mild anxietyand fatigue

Mountain Pose

Helps help develop the brainand concentration

Four-Limbed Staff Pose

Calms the mind by relievingfrom tension, anxiety and

depression

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CITIES FORMEDICALSCHOOL

FEATURE ARTICLE

Here’s our list of cities which offer medical students the best overall experi-ence outside of the classroom. Affordable housing, free activities, and a lowcost-of-living may make the list of places where medical students who wishto pursue their dreams of becoming a doctor can still enjoy the perks of citylife without the hefty price tag. Here are 10 U.S. cities that may offer studentseverything they need to stretch their student income (or lack thereof) andmake their four years of medical school as enjoyable as possible. And ofcourse, 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 importantfactor for many prospective medical students: money. And not money, in

terms of salary like many of these types of lists generally account for, buthow much money prospective medical students would be able to save. Sowe looked at cities across the country which offered the lowest cost-of-liv-ing for its residents. We then refined our search by looking at factors ofinterest to the medical student population, such as rent affordability, accessto public transportation (since owning a car is not such a budget-friendlyidea), and number of free activities (when time permits to lower stress lev-els without spending much). Take a look. And let us know what you thinkwith a reader comment. You told us your ideal city to attend medical schoolis affordable, fun, and easy to get around. We found 10 that fit the bill.>>>

DURING THESE ROUGH ECONOMIC TIMES, PROSPECTIVE MEDICAL STUDENTS CONSIDERMANY FACTORS WHEN IT COMES TO DECIDING ON WHICH MEDICAL SCHOOL TO APPLY TO

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Over the past 10 years, this city has transformed itselfinto a vibrant town that offers cheap cost of living,without skimping on the amenities. From free jazzand free movies to community theaters and smallclubs, Omaha is bustling with tons cheap or freeentertainment. Students who may wish to take a breakfrom their studies don't have to worry about diggingin their pockets to enjoy a quality event. And don't

worry about not having a car, the city's extensive trailsystem, which runs throughout the city, is perfect forwalkers, runners, and bicyclists, who besides gettingfrom place to place, may take advantage of this perkto burn off steam or stay in shape. The city's transitauthority provides pubic bus services to hundreds oflocations throughout the metro area.

Cost-of-living: 90.3 (national average 100)Avg 1br rental: $625/month Public transportation:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:Creighton University School of Medicine, Universityof Nebraska College of Medicine

11OMAHA, NEBRASKA

2012 BEST CITIES FOR M


The city that is ranked year after year as one of themost desirable places to live and work, made our listfor one of the best cities for medical students to studytoo! Super friendly people brimming with Southernhospitality are just one of the perks that come alongwith attending medical school in Nashville. The city'scost of living is about 10% below the national averageand the housing costs are even lower than the average,28%. The city's low cost of living has attracted manyand even as medical students graduate, the opportuni-ties available through top employers like VanderbiltUniversity and Hospital Corporation of America, aremaking them stay put after graduation. And we mustnot forget to mention the city's free bus service calledThe Music City Circuit, which operates in downtownNashville. While Nashville is best known for countrymusic, the metro area offers many perks that go farbeyond what many may think.

Cost-of-living: 90.7 (national average 100)Avg 1br rental: $736/month Public transportation:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:Meharry Medical CollegeVanderbilt University School of Medicine

22NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

MEDICAL SCHOOL >>>


While the pace of this city may be a bit slower thanother cities, Little Rock can offer a little bit of every-thing. For the culturally apt student, this city has quitea trendy art scene and various venues offer year roundperformances of opera, cabaret, and jazz, as well asseasonal festivals and events. Residents can also takeadvantage of the largest park dedicated to the per-forming arts in the South and the city's zoo. The cityhas public bus service and downtown streetcarswhich service the downtown areas of Little Rock andNorth Little Rock. Oh, and for all of you who areinterested, Little Rock was named the second cleanestcity in America in 2011 by Forbes magazine.

Cost-of-living: 94.1 (national average 100)Avg 1br rental: $640/month Public transportation:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Collegeof Medicine

33LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS



With a cost-of-living about 6% less than the nationalaverage, Cincinnati can offer students small-townaffordability with big-city perks. Aside from its zoo,two major sports teams, and more than 5,000 acres ofparks, the city also offers free music six days a weekbeginning in May and lasting through September eachyear. For students looking to spend time outdoors, thecity's Web site claims that any city resident is within 1mile of a park - how nice is that?

Cost-of-living: 93.3 (national average 100)Avg 1br rental: $590/month Public transportation:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:University of Cincinnati College of Medicine

44CINCINNATI, OHIO

EDICAL SCHOOL >>>

55Voted many times by Money Magazine as "the best place tolive in the southeast," Johnson City is considered an eco-nomic hub which is largely fueled by East Tennessee StateUniversity and what's called the medical "Med-Tech" corri-dor, linked by the Johnson City Medical Center, FranklinWoods Community Hospital, ETSU's Gatton College ofPharmacy and ETSU's Quillen College of Medicine. And allof that nice medical stuff makes it an even better place formedical students to flock to. Add nice climate, affordablehousing, and low cost of living - what more can a studentask for? Johnson City also has all of that good stuff plus thecity can offer some of the nice perks that come along withliving in the city like free art and music festivals. The city'spublic transportation system operates the BucShot, which isa system that serves the greater ETSU campus.

Cost-of-living: 88.1(national average 100)Avg 1br rental: $577/month Public transportation:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine

JOHNSON CITY, TENNESSEE

2012 BEST CITIES FOR MEDITOR’S

PICK

getpublished.write for usIf 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 forstudent writers to submit articles. From your personal experiences as a pre-med student to living everyday life as a college student, we want to shareyour 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 PreMedLifeMagazine, visit our Web site at www.premedlife.com or email us at [email protected].


Ranked as one of the top 10 best big cities in the country to relo-cate, for medical students looking to begin their medical career,Columbus is another attractive place for future doctors. Farfrom just a place for kids, this city his home to a science muse-um which features interactive exhibits and IMAX movies, whichwe're sure some medical students might find interesting as well.And don't worry about needing a car to get around, bicycling astransportation is steadily increasing in the city with its relativelyflat terrain and off-road bike paths. The city has a large studentpopulation so for all of the medical students fresh out of col-lege, it may be nice to see others around the same age group asyourself. When summertime rolls around, residents can take

advantage of the free Shakespearean plays at the amphitheater inSchiller 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:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:Ohio State University College of Medicine

66COLUMBUS, OHIO

MEDICAL SCHOOL >>>


Both stable and affordable, Oklahoma City has experiencedtremendous renovation. For those of you looking to go intobiomedicine, the city has seen many life-science start-ups,including the Presbyterian Health Foundation ResearchPark, a 700,000 square foot space which has attracted aninflux of innovative biomedical firms. If you can get over itbeing one of the most tornado-prone cities in the nation,Oklahoma City, boasts the second lowest media rent amonglarge U.S. metro areas. If you do plan on driving, apparentlythe city's freeways are rarely congested with the "stop andgo" commuter patterns of other major cities, and it is oftensaid that one can get from any part of the metro area todowntown in 30 minutes or less by freeway. The city alsofeatures a bus and rail transit system from those looking toget around the area by ways other than driving.

Cost-of-living: 89(national average 100)Avg 1br rental: $544/month Public transportation:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:University of Oklahoma College of Medicine

77OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA

Although you may not think of Birmingham when you thinkcity, this is a place that you may not want pass judgement. Asmoney continues to be invested into reconstructing the down-town area into a 24-hour mixed-used district, Birmingham hasconsistently been rated as one of America's best places to workand earn a living based in part on the relatively low livingexpenses. Aside from that, the city offers numerous activitieswhen students may need something to do to relax like visit agallery or museum in the area. And if you're looking for moreartsy things to do to stimulate your brain after you've bom-barded it with the sciences, the state is also home to a majorballet, opera, and symphony organizations. After graduation,medical students may just want to stay put - one study deter-mined that Birmingham was second in the nation for buildingpersonal 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:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:University of Alabama School of Medicine

88BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA



MEDICAL SCHOOL >>>

99MEMPHIS, TENNESSEEFor students looking to spend as little as they can in medicalschool, one of the most attractive features of this city is howcheap it is to live there. "Memphis has, in other words, all theamenities that come with being the 20th-largest city in the U.S.but at a cost of living nearly 14% below the national metroaverage," according to the city's Web site. "For the majority ofnewcomers, that means more money for travel, leisure andhobbies, or putting away for a rainy day." From a vibrant down-town scene to a handful of bioscience assets, Memphis hasplenty to offer to students attending medical school in the area.The major mode of public transportation used in Memphisoperates both buses and trolleys - yes trolleys. And on the lastFriday of each month, the trolley is free from 6-9pm andincludes live entertainment and complimentary drinks as wellas 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:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:University of Tennessee Health Sciences College of Medicine

The "Horse Capital of the World" is also one of the bestplaces for students looking to go to medical school in a city.The diverse cityscape and vibrant downtown area putLexington on the map as a place that accounts for it landingin the 5th spot for the best city for Young Professionals in2008. And if after moving there find yourself needing stickup for the lesser known city, for any students who movehere, they'll be proud to say that Lexington was ranked 10thin a list of America's most educated cities with a populationof more than 250,000, so there! In addition to the city's nor-mal bus routes, the transit authority offers campus shuttleservice on the University of Kentucky. The city's newestform of transportation, Colt Trolleys, is free and has a routewhich 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:Free activates/events:Medical schools located in this city:University of Kentucky College of Medicine

1010LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY


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St. George's University's School of Medicine inGrenada, West Indies pioneered the concept ofinternational medical education. St. George'shas contributed nearly 11,000 physicians to theglobal health care system; these graduates havebeen licensed in all 50 United States and Canadaand have practiced in over 45 countries acrossthe world. The majority of St. George's medicalstudents have come from the top 100 UnitedStates colleges and universities. Over 500 St.George's students came from Ivy Leagueschools and nearly 4,000 graduated from uni-versities in the US News & World Report's listof Top National Universities in 2011.

St. George's US medical students may begintheir Basic Sciences studies on the main campusin Grenada, or at the University's affiliate in theUnited Kingdom -- the Keith B. Taylor GlobalScholars program, delivered at NorthumbriaUniversity. Beyond the stand-alone MD degree,medical students at St. George's have theopportunity to pursue joint MD/MPH,

MD/MSc, and MD/MBA degrees. Studentscomplete their clinical training in theUniversity's 60+ affiliated hospitals and clinicalcenters in the United States, Canada, and theUnited Kingdom.

LEADING THE WAY IN MEDICAL EDUCATIONSt. George's was the first private medical schoolin the Caribbean, and first private institution inthe region to be accredited by the CaribbeanAccreditation Authority for Education inMedicine and Health Professions. In 2010,SGU's US and Canadian medical students sur-passed medical school students in the US andCanada with a 94% first time pass rate on theUnited States Medical Licensing ExaminationStep 1. In fact, overall, SGU's first-timeUSMLE takers - students who were from 49different countries - equaled the first time passrate of 92% in the US and Canada for 2010.

RESEARCH POSSIBILITIESPartnering with the nearby Windward IslandsResearch and Education Foundation (WIN-DREF), St. George's continues to advance publichealth and environmentally sustainable develop-ment through multidisciplinary research. WIN-DREF draws internationally recognized scholarsand regional scientists and partners with presti-gious North American, Caribbean, European,and African institutions in global research affect-ing the region, including medical and veterinarypublic health, marine and terrestrial biology, andecology. The Foundation maintains a unique sci-

entific resource center at its research Institute onSt. George's main campus.

A MAJESTIC ENVIRONMENT

More than $250 million US was spent to create abeautiful, state-of-the-art campus, rivaling those ofthe most prestigious universities in the world. St.George's students are truly taken aback by thebeauty of their physical accommodations. Thesprawling campus includes 52 buildings spread outover 42 acres in a vibrant, tropical seaside location.St. George's True Blue campus provides all theamenities and technologically advanced facilities ofa world-class institution, while offering beautifulscenery and majestic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Information on the University is available athttp://www.sgu.edu, and through YouTube,Facebook, and Twitter at StGeorgesU. Would-beAmerican medical students may view their con-temporaries at St. George's by visitinghttp://www.sgu.edu/us.

St. George's University OffersProgram Choices to Medical Students

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At St. George’s University, our job is to prepare you to do yours. On the 2010

USMLE Step 1, our fi rst time test takers – from 49 countries – equalled the

92% pass rate of students at US and Canadian medical schools, while our US

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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

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Grenada, West Indies US/Canada: 1(800)899-6337 ext. 9 1280

sgu.edu/future-students • [email protected]

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Through an innovative approached aimed at edu-cating future physicians as best as possible, DrexelUniversity College of Medicine recognized thatstudents have different learning styles and teachesits students based on how they learn best. Yes,that's right - to tackle the rigorous academic pro-gram that Drexel University offers, students have achoice of two curricular tracks based on differentlearning styles - the Interdisciplinary Foundationsof Medicine (IFM) and the Program for IntegratedLearning (PIL). If a student is one who is more forthe traditional lecture style of teaching, then theschool's IFM path would be the way to go. If thewhole lecture-based curriculum seemed to work incollege, then students who are accustomed to asingle instructor teaching to a large group may optfor this track. In addition, students who studyunder the IFM track have the freedom to studyindependently outside of lecture and at their ownpace. But it's not entirely lecture-based. Studentsalso spend time working in laboratories, engagingin small group activities, conducting independentresearch projects, and giving presentations to fel-low students. Throughout the first two years, com-munication, history taking, and physical exam skillsare taught and experiences in a physician's officeare part of the curriculum.

On the other hand, for students who learnbetter in small groups than through traditionallectures only, the PIL track is a perfect match.Guided by faculty, students learn in a student-centered, integrated, interactive format designedto help them master the traditional sciences basicto medicine. In addition, students address behav-ior sciences, community and preventive medi-cine, women's health, and principles of medicalethics, as well as communication, history-takingskills, and physical diagnosis. For students whochoose the PIL track, during their first two years,students cover the basic sciences in a block for-mat, with seven 10-week blocks over the twoyears. Each block focuses on several basic andbehavior science topics at a time. When coursematerial is introduced, it is presented to the stu-dents in a case-based learning format whichmeans that whatever they are learning will beintroduced in relation to a patient. Ultimately, thestudents will need to analyze and problem-solvein order to dissect a patient's case. According tothe school’s Web site, "the cases provide a con-text for the course learning objectives and serveas challenging, motivating, enjoyable stimulus for

students to acquire, study, and apply this coreknowledge.” And for all the pre-medical studentswho get nervous just thinking about having towork in a "small-group" setting, current studentssay that one does not have to be an outgoing,group learning kind of student to succeed inPIL. In fact, apparently, introverted studentswho struggle with presenting can get the mostbenefit from the PIL curricular style.

While some students decide to do a trial run ineach curriculum, others just know themselves toowell and jump right into which track they know willwork best for them. No matter which curriculum astudent chooses, the design of both tracks aredesigned to provide them with adequate knowledgeand exposure they need to prepare them for theUSMLE Step 1 and the clinical years.

After getting through the first two years, in theyear to follow, students work with faculty membersin a number of different settings and are devoted torequired clinical clerkships in medicine, family medi-cine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychia-try, and surgery. In the final year, the curriculum isstructured in the form of what the school calls"Pathways" - courses that give students a well-round-ed educational experience with a focus on potentialcareers. These pathways allow each student to bal-ance the structure and flexibility of his/her learningneeds, prepares the student to enter postgraduatetraining with confidence, and maximize the guidanceand counseling available from an advisor. Althoughtailoring to the students learning needs, both optionsfocus on professional education to prepare studentsto pursue careers as either generalists or specialists.

Drexel University COM has earned nationalrecognition as an innovator in medication educationand trains its students to learn how to think like aphysician. To do this, within their first few weeks theschool introduces first-year students to clinical expe-riences. But wait - there's more. Through theschool's Medical Humanities program, studentslearn to frame issues in patient care within cultural,social and historical perspective.

The school also has a one-year, tuition-freeopportunity to "gain an edge" as a future doctorthrough a special program designed specifically toenhance what a student has already learned and fos-ter their personal growth - how cool is that?

For more information about Drexel UniversitySchool of Medicine visit www.drexelmed.edu.

DREXEL UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE OF MEDICINE

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

DEGREE(S) OFFERED:MD/PhD, MD/MPH,MD/MBA, MD/MS

SCHOOL TYPEPrivate

# OF APPLICANTS12,548

# Applicants Interviewed1,358

# Applicants Accepted1,358

Cumulative GPA3.58

Average MCAT Score30.3

Most surprising undergraduatemajors 2007-2010

Accounting, Architecture,Civil & Environmental

Engineering, ComparativeLiterature, Dance, Film and

Video, HospitalityAdministration, International

Relations, Journalism,Materials Engineering,

Music, Philosophy, PoliticalScience, Public Policy,

Religion, and Theater Arts.

Tuition$46,810 is the same for in-

state and out-of-state residents

quickfacts

SCHOOLSPOTLITEGet a glimpse into what one medical school in the U.S. has to offer prospective students <<<

First things first: focus on your body. Chancesare, you’ve been sleep deprived. It’s impor-tant that you get plenty of sleep. It can be

hard to get back into a routine of a healthy sleepcycle so there are three things I would suggest youdo. First, make sure that you fall asleep at a decenttime. If you cannot go to sleep, try to read a booknot school related. Read something you want toread, such as a current New York Times best seller.Set an alarm to about 8:00 am. Force yourself towake up and begin your day. This will help in mak-ing you tired so you can fall asleep earlier. Drinkplenty of water and catch up on your fruits and veg-etables. Flush your system of all the caffeine andramen. Your body will thank you later. In additionto sleeping and eating healthy, it is also importantthat you try to exercise. Try and go for a run or doany of your favorite exercise routines.

Second: give your brain a break. During finalsweek your brain is being crammed with mecha-nisms, formulas, terms, and cycles. During the win-ter break, allow your brain to rest. By rest, I don’tmean to completely shut off your mind. It is stillimportant to think about everyday tasks! What I domean is to allow your brain to rest and focus onthings that you want it to focus on. For example, agood book can go a long way. Reading is both relax-ing and mentally stimulating and thus you aren’tcompletely wasting your brainpower on mindless

activities. Watch movies, catch up on missed televi-sion episodes, and play video games. Allow yourmind to do what it wants to do.

Lastly: reward yourself for your achievements.Each semester for pre-med students becomesincreasingly more difficult with upper level biologyand chemistry classes, and if you’ve managed to aceorganic chemistry I, you definitely deserve a reward.So what constitutes a reward? Some may considerthe break itself to be the reward, but I usuallyindulge myself in my favorite meals and throw inpurchase for myself as well. Being close to the hol-idays, gifts can also be a form of reward, but be sureto get something for yourself exclusively for all ofyour hard work. You deserve it!

So remember, wherever you are for your winterbreak, be sure to relax, catch up on sleep and exer-cise, and be sure to reward your mind as well asyourself ! Don’t even think about picking up thatMCAT book until the first of January!

ALEX YU is a junior studying Biology at Rhodes College in

Memphis, Tennessee. He enjoyscooking, reading,

and writing in his spare time and is currently

preparing to apply to medical school


When winter break finally arrives aftera week of ramen, unhealthy amountsof coffee, and brutal all nighters, pre-

med students finally get some timeaway from their textbooks and sub-par

living conditions to focus on them-selves and to give their brains a rest.

The next three weeks are important ifyou want to return to school feeling

refreshed and ready to tackle the newmaterial with an unstressed mind.

by ALEX YU

The Post Finals Detox:

PreparingYourself forthe SpringSemester

SUPER PREMED Interested in writing for PreMedLife magazine? Submit your article to [email protected].


Six Reasons Medical Schools Reject Applicants

WE'RE JUST NOTTHAT INTO YOU

FEATURE

by JESSICA FREEDMAN, M.D.

Whether you are a premedical student trying to make sureto "do everything right" or a medical school applicant whohas not yet been accepted to medical school, it may helpto learn what applicants who are not accepted to medicalschool often have in common. Many of these problemsare easy to avoid while others take a little more time andeffort to remedy. Here are six problems I have observed:

APPLYING TO A NARROW RANGE OF MEDICAL SCHOOLSEveryone has told you that you are a great applicant andyou should have no concerns. Premed advisors, friends,and family may advise you to reach high and that youdon't need to apply to more than 10 to 15 medicalschools. I advise most students to be wary of thisadvice. While I always encourage medical school appli-cants to "aim high" and to have dream schools in mind,being realistic is also important. The competition formedical school admissions is fierce; fewer than half of42,742 applicants matriculated in 2010/2011. So unlessyou have outstanding grades, MCAT® scores, letters ofreference, experiences, written application materials, anda great interview experience, it is extremely important tocast a wide net and to apply broadly to a large range ofmedical schools. Sometimes applicants (or their advi-sors) overestimate their competitiveness and apply tomostly top-tier medical schools. These applicants arethen surprised when they are not accepted to any ofthem. The bottom line is that, even if you are a top-notch applicant, you must consider adding to your listmedical schools that are not ultra-selective.

LACKING CLINICAL EXPERIENCEYou are applying to medical school, right? Then you mustbe able to demonstrate to the admissions committee thatyour experience fits this career decision. Many medicalschool applicants are interested in science and, whileresearch is important, it cannot substitute for clinicalexposure. Some medical school applicants submit applica-tions with an impressive list of accomplishments andexperiences but don't demonstrate any clinical exposure,which comes in many forms: You can shadow your ownfamily physician, volunteer in a free clinic or a hospital, orparticipate in a formal premedical program that includestime spent with physicians. It is very tough to convince anadmissions committee via your written documents or dur-ing interviews that you want to pursue a career in medicineif you have never spent time in a clinical arena.

SUBMITTING POORLY COMPOSED WRITTEN DOCUMENTSRegardless of your candidacy's strengths, composingpersuasive application materials is essential for success.Whether you are competitive applicant seeking accept-

ance to the most prestigious medical schools in thecountry or a "borderline" applicant with lower thanaverage grades, experiences, or MCAT® scores, yourexperience descriptions and personal statement mustconvince the people reviewing your application that youare worthy of an interview and an acceptance. This isespecially important during the first stage of the medicalschool admissions process when the admissions com-mittee decides whether or not to extend an interviewinvitation. The committee bases this decision on theobjective material you present such as your academicprofile, but your written materials, including your appli-cation and letters of reference, make a difference. Youdon't have control over the content of your LORs, butyou do have complete control of what you write in yourapplication materials. Written documents that clearlyand articulately express the evolution of your interest inmedicine with introspection and thought are more likelyto motivate the admissions committee to click the"interview" box when deciding your fate.

HAVING A LACKLUSTER ACADEMIC PROFILEYou have done "okay" in college and on your MCAT®,but is your performance strong enough to gain admis-sion to medical school? Many medical school admissionscommittees "screen" applications; if your grades orMCAT® don't reach a certain threshold, you are auto-matically rejected and your application isn't reviewed.Other medical schools use a school-specific "formula"that takes into account your grades and MCAT® scoreand determines whether or not your application will bereviewed if you earn a minimum score. The general ruleof thumb is that you must have an overall undergradu-ate grade point average (UGPA) of 3.5 with a strongperformance in the sciences and a minimum MCAT®

score of 30 to gain admission to medical school, but thisrule has variations. For example, if your UGPA is lowerthan a 3.5, your MCAT® is a 31 and you have outstand-ing LORs, documents, and interview skills (see below)you can still gain admission to medical school. Medicalschools also consider the rigor of your academic courseload, undergraduate institution competitiveness, outsidepressures (such as financial difficulties), and upwardgrade trend when evaluating how you performed. Manystudents perform poorly as a freshman in college and asthey adjust to college life their grades steadily increase asthey improve their study and time management skills;admissions committees consider this.

The evaluation of applicants is also subject to vari-ous nuances. For example, the student who attends acompetitive undergraduate institution and pursued a dif-ficult major, with a UGPA of 3.4 and an MCAT® 36might be viewed more favorably than the student whoattended a less competitive college, pursued a less rigor-ous major and had a 4.0 but earned a 31 on the MCAT®.In other words, to some extent admissions committeesconsider the competitiveness of your undergraduateinstitution and course load. At the same time, you needto realize that applicants' MCAT® performances are theonly measures admissions committees have for compar-ing "apples to apples." This is why an exceptionalMCAT® performance is important regardless of whereyou attend college. >>>


Every year applicants feel confused and in the darkabout why they have been rejected by medicalschools. They do not understand what they did wrongor what they need to do differently when they reapply.

SUBMITTING A LATE APPLICATIONYou are an outstanding applicant but submitteda late application. Though this problem is easyto "fix," you should understand why it's impor-tant to rectify it. Every year the AmericanMedical College Application Service®

(AMCAS®) starts accepting medical schoolapplications on or around June 1st And sub-mitting your primary application as close to thisopening date as possible is essential. Why?AMCAS® must review and verify your applica-tion, which can take up to six weeks (or more ifthere is a problem), and medical schools willreview your application only after you are "ver-ified" and they have received all supplementalapplication materials, such as letters of refer-ence, Medical College Admissions Test(MCAT®) scores, and secondary applicationsand essays.

By submitting an early application you will beconsidered within a smaller pool of applicantsearly in the season. In contrast, applicants whowait until deadlines to submit their applicationmaterials are typically considered within a muchlarger pool of applicants. In addition, becauseearly applicants have been invited for some of aschool's finite number of interviews, those whoapply late are competing with a large number ofapplicants for fewer interview slots. Similarly, formedical schools with rolling admissions, inter-viewing late in the admissions season is less thanideal since in March or April, for example, mostinitial acceptance offers have been extended.This means that even if you are a competitiveapplicant, the medical school may not have anymore interviews or acceptances to extend. This is

why many great applicants who submit late appli-cations, receive "hold", 'reject," or "wait list"decisions rather than acceptances.

If you are rejected by medical school anddecide that your academic record needs to beenhanced, you have many options. If grades arethe issue, consider taking upper division classesat a four year university after graduation.Postgraduate special master's programs specifi-cally designed for students who want to attendmedical school are also a good alternative; asearchable database of such programs is availablefrom the Association of American MedicalColleges: http://services.aamc.org/postbac.Other possibilities are to pursue a master's inpublic or global health or in a specific scientificdiscipline in which you are interested. These areall great options if you need to improve your aca-demic profile. If your MCAT® is the concern,you must critically evaluate what you need to doto improve so you can target your studying.

DEMONSTRATING POOR INTERVIEW SKILLS.Once an applicant reaches the interview stage,the interview is the most important determi-nant of success. Typically, interviewees withgreat interpersonal skills and emotional intelli-gence are naturally better interviewees thanapplicants who are more introverted.Applicants who are very nervous, not articu-late, or who aren't comfortable speaking aboutthemselves can under-perform during the inter-view. Even though some US medical schoolsare adopting the multiple mini interview (MMI)format, most medical schools still conduct one-on-one interviews. Contrary to what most med-

ical school applicants believe when they startthis process, medical school interviews are typ-ically relaxed dialogues; the interviewer is tryingto get to know each applicant, assess if he orshe has the qualities and characteristics theschool is seeking in medical students, and if heis a good fit for the school. While a certaindegree of subjectivity influences every inter-view experience, applicants can perform well ifthey practice speaking about themselves beforethe interview and if they clearly express theirmotivations and experiences that influencedtheir decision to practice medicine.

I have seen applicants fail to be accepted to med-ical school again and again for one or more ofthese "Top Six" reasons. Nonetheless, how aschool weighs each of these factors, among oth-ers, is determined by each applicant's unique pro-file and situation and the criteria and admissionsprocess of that particular school. Always remem-ber that each medical school considers every can-didate individually and there are many things youcan do to improve your chance of success.

JESSICA FREEDMAN, M.D.,is president of MedEdits

Medical Admissions(www.MedEdits.com) and

author of the MedEditsGuide to Medical Admissions

and The Medical SchoolInterview. Follow Dr.

Freedman and MedEdits onFacebook and Twitter.

weknowyouloveus*

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ESPECIALLY THIS SPECIALTYLearn more about various specialties and what it will take to pursue a certain specialty<<<

NOCTURNISTBecoming a...

Almost unheard of a generation ago, hospital medicine is a relatively new phe-nomenon in American medicine. For those of you interested in becoming a hos-pitalist, 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 whoseprimary professional focus is hospital medicine is called a hospitalist. Differentfrom physicians who may treat patients in an office-based setting or a clinic inaddition to seeing patients in a hospital, hospitalists are typically employed by ahospital and work only in a hospital facility where patents are admitted forovernight stays. While most hospitalists are trained in internal medicine, manyof them have a background in family medicine. Different from a traditionalprovider, a hospitalist is available to care for patients 24/7. In general, hospi-talists work 12-hour shifts for a full seven days. As for a nocturnist, their pri-mary role is to admit patients from an emergency room, and to "cross-cover"previously admitted inpatients, through the night. The typical nocturnist worksfrom 7pm to 7am.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO BECOME ANOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Undergraduate - (4 Years) to obtain bachelor's degree

Medical School - (4 Years) to obtain a doctor of medicine degree (MD) ordoctor 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 thesupervision of a licensed physician.

WHAT ARE SOME SUB-SPECIALTIES OFNOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ?Some of the more common specialists that are also hospitalists are nerohospi-talist, surgical hospitalists (surgicalists) OB hospitalists (laborists), and derma-tological 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 coordinatethe coverage schedule among the group of hospitalists to ensure consistenthospital coverage. Additional responsibilities like managing professional andquality issues are also a part of being a hospitalist manager or director.

WHAT ARE CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOODNOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Leadership skills, effective communication skills with other members of medicalteam, patients, and a patient's family members, ability to work well with a team,and the ability to assess the need for quality improvement.

WHAT IS THE CAREER OUTLOOK FORNOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST ? Because of the high demand for skilled health care providers, the hospital-ist field is one of the fast-growing careers in health care today. As more andmore 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 THEYLOVE ABOUT THEIR FIELD? Block scheduling which allows hospitalists to have a substantial amount of timeoff, sometimes up to six months. Many hospitalists also like the fact that sincethey are not self-employed in a private practice, they do not have to worryabout the business side of managing their own practice, which can be a lot ofextra work.

WHAT DO SOME NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST SAY THEYHATE ABOUT THEIR FIELD? The good of being a hospitalist can also be bad from some because beingemployed by a hospital also means that that physician is essentially workingfor someone else, an arrangement which some are not always too fond of.In addition, some hospitalists say that compared to office-based work, work-ing in a hospital-setting is too repetitive, too impersonal, and sometimesmore stressful.

WHAT DO NOCTURNIST/HOSPITALIST EARN? The average hospitalist makes anywhere from about $175,000 on the lowerend to upwards of $250,000 on the higher end of the spectrum. However,nocturnist are typically paid higher than their colleagues who work duringthe day.

We just thought we'd have a little fun with the title of this issues' sec-tion because a nocturnist is just a hospitalist who only worksovernight. So this issue's specialty is actually about being a hospi-talist! In 1996 the term "hospitalist" was coined in the New EnglandJournal of Medicine and since then has grown into a field of thou-sands of physicians.


5THINGS YOUR MEDICAL SCHOOLINTERVIEWERWON’T TELL YOUOne 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.


I KNOW YOU'RE NERVOUS BUT YOU REALLYSHOULD HAVE REMEMBERED MY NAMEAlthough it may seem like a minor detail, remembering your interviewer(s)name(s) is a bigger deal than you may realize. Not only does rememberingmatter, but if you're able to throw their name in before or while you'reanswering a question, you may also score a couple of points. If you don't feelcomfortable referring to them by name during the interview, it would be anice end to the interview if you say "Thank You, so and so" to close yourconversation. Don't you know - people love to hear their own name!Remembering and using your interviewer's name throughout your interviewwill help you feel a bit more comfortable and show your interviewer thatyou're interested and involved in the moment. This is one of the small thingsthat many students fail to focus on that can mean the difference of youstanding out from the other applicants.

I REALLY WISH YOU WOULD'VE THOUGHT OF ALEAST ONE QUESTION TO ASK MEIt goes without saying that you should have at least one question to ask youinterviewer during your time together. Whether it's what they enjoy mostabout working or studying at the college/university or another questions spe-cific to the school's curriculum or research program, you need to be preparedto ask a question even if your interviewer doesn't ask you if you have anyquestions. When you do your research about the school you're interviewingat beforehand, jot down any questions you may have.

YOUR BODY LANGUAGE IS SAYING A LOT MORETHAN YOU REALIZEYou may already know what you're going to say during your medical schoolinterview but what about what you're going to do? Although many studentsmay 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'sactually coming out of your mouth. Your body language will tell your inter-viewer 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 questionare only a couple of the signals that you can give off during an interview andnot realize what you're "saying" to the other person across the table. Makesure that everything you're doing with your body speaks confidence andtruthfulness. Not sure of what not to do? Do a search on Google for bodylanguage 101 and you may learn a thing or two.

FROM THE MOMENT YOU WALKED IN I'VE BEENCOMPARING YOU WITH THE LAST APPLICANTIf you're not the first person being seen by an interviewer, they will natu-rally 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 aslong as possible. You want them to still be thinking about you in a goodway even after they've seen several applicants after you. If you're "thatgood," in their head they'll be comparing every student who comes afteryou to your interview - and that's a good thing! So be yourself and makethe interview experience as memorable and meaningful as possible.

I CAN TELL HOW PASSIONATE YOU ARE ABOUTMEDICINE BY HOW YOU ANSWER MY QUESTIONSWith some of the unique questions interviewers are asking these days, it canbe kind of hard to prepare answers to some possible questions. But there willbe some questions, whether posed in a traditional way or not, which willprobe your motivation and desire to pursue medicine. If you're doing it foryour parents, it will show in how you answer these questions whether yourealize 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 andfind a way to express your thoughts in a way that exudes passion and honestybehind your answer.


PRE-MEDSUMMER PROGRAMLIST2

012

Arizona Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Summer Students Program Phoenix, Arizona June/July 2012 6-Week

PROGRAM NAME LOCATION DATE DURATION

Summer Research Fellowship at the University of Arkansas Little Rock, Arkansas May 2012 8 Weeks

David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Los Angeles, California June-August 2012 6 WeeksSummer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)

Seaver Undergraduate Research in Biology at Pepperdine University Malibu, California TBA TBA


Summer research and academic enrichment geared toward pre-medical students are a great wayto strengthen your medical school application. Most students who get accepted to medical schoolhave participated in one or more summer pre-med programs during the course of their under-graduate 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 wantto participate in academic enrichment programs, test preparation courses, research projects, orhospital internships, check out the following list of opportunities for Summer 2011. Be sure tocheck individual websites for application deadlines!

The list includes opportunities nationwide in several different areas. Among the areas includeare: California, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, NorthCarolina Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and more.

A, pro bono, six-week program designed tomotivate and inspire students considering acareer in medicine. Students attend didactic(designed or intended to teach) lectures and par-ticipate in clinical rotations at both the ArizonaHeart Institute and Arizona Heart Hospital.

Phone(602) 200-0437 MARCH 2012Email [email protected]

Paid summer research fellowships are availablefor undergraduate students who will be juniorsor seniors by the fall semester. Selected studentswill work on a project relevant to human healthin a laboratory of a faculty member at either theUniversity of Arkansas, the University ofArkansas at Little Rock, or the University ofArkansas for Medical Sciences. The BiomedicalResearch fellowships are designed for studentswith a solid background in science who wish tobe part of an ongoing research project, developtheir technical skills and are interested in pursu-ing a research career.

Phone(501) 526-6503 FEBRUARY 2012

Websitebrin.uams.edu/students2.asp

$3200 StipendLiving Allowance

The UCLA SMDEP will serve as a model learn-ing community in which students examinehealth care issues in medically underservedcommunities. Through a research project, prob-lem-based learning cases, lectures, clinical expe-riences, and small-group discussions, studentswill also improve their learning skills andincrease their science knowledge. The programtargets educationally and financially disadvan-taged community college students.

Phone(310) 825-9573 MARCH 1, 2012Email [email protected]

Websitewww.medsch.ucla.edu/smdep

MealsStipendHousing

Summer research program geared specifically toundergraduate students who are interested inpursing a career in biological research, scienceeducation, environmental science or biotech-nology. Over the summer, students will pursueindividual research seminars in one of fiveresearch areas students may elect to study.

[email protected] FEBRUARY 2012

Websiteseaver.pepperdine.edu/surb

StipendRoom & Board

DESCRIPTION PERKS PROGRAM INFO APPLICATION DEADLINE


UCLA Pre-Medical Enrichment Program (PREP) Los Angeles, California June 20-August 3 2012 7 Weeks

Stanford Summer Research Program (SSRP) Stanford, California TBA 8 Weeks


UCLA Re-Application Program (RAP) Los Angeles, California June 20-August 3, 2012 11 Months Summer Session7 Weeks + Academic Session9 Months

Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy Duarte, California May-July 2012 10 WeeksorJune-August 2012

UCSD Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) San Diego, California TBA 8 WeeksSummer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)

2012 PREMED SUMMER PROGRAM LIST

National Cancer Institute (NCI) Duarte, California May-August 2012 12 WeeksContinuing Umbrella of Research Experience (CURE) Program June-August 2012

June-September 2012


Program offers undergraduates who want toprepare for and enter Ph.D programs in the sci-ences an opportunity to work with Stanford'sdistinguished faculty and work in one ofStanford's state-of-the-art research facilities.Participants will work with a faculty memberand a lab mentor to craft a research project. Theprogram culminates with a research sympo-sium, where students present individual talksand posters on their summer projects in frontof the faculty, lab mentors, and Universityadministrators.

Email: [email protected] CONTACT PROGRAM

Websitessrp.stanford.edu

Program designed to provide premedical andpredental students from disadvantaged back-ground with a means of strengthening theirability and readiness to study medicine or den-tistry. Students will work at a rigorous pace witha highly focused scope to prepare for theMCAT and DAT. Participants will engage in anextensive and lively classroom review ofBiology, Chemistry, Physics, and VerbalReasoning. Participants are also assigned toobserve practicing physicians, dentists, andmedical researchers performing the typical func-tions of their professions.

Phone(310) 825-3575

Websitewww.medstudent.ucla.edu/prospective/?pgID=181

Travel allowancefor eligible participants

Comprehensive, structured re-application pro-gram designed to assist students from disadvan-taged background who have been unsuccessfulin gaining admission to any U.S. medical school.The program begins with an intensive 8-weeksummer session, focused upon prerequisite sci-ence review and MCAT preparation. An indi-vidualized academic-year program that consistsof a science curriculum will follow.

Stipend(Depending onavailability)

Program gives promising students with an inter-est in research and health science careers practi-cal experience and helps them develop impor-tant skills for their futures. Our instructors areworld-renowned physicians and scientists whoguide students in their research, while helpingthem develop their critical thinking skills.Weekly seminars allow students to presentresearch findings to their peers, a good primerfor what graduate and postdoctoral students do.

$4000 Stipend

Program is designed to engage the scientificcuriosity of promising young high school andundergraduate students from underrepresentedpopulations who are interested in cancerresearch as a career.

$4800 Stipend

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE

Program for motivated undergraduate studentsinterested in seeking future training in a com-bined MD/PhD program. Principle focus is an8-week research project conducted in the labo-ratory of a faculty member in the biomedicalsciences.

Email: (800) 925-8704 FEBRUARY 2012

Websitemstp.ucsd.edu/surf/Pages/default.aspx

$1600/MonthStipendHousingTravel Allowance

MARCH 1, 2012

Phone(310) 825-3575

Websitewww.medstudent.ucla.edu/prospective/?pgID=183

MAY 3, 2012 (priority deadline)MAY 10, 2012 (final deadline)

Email: [email protected]

Websitewww.cityofhope.org/education/sum-mer-student-academy/Pages/default.aspx

MARCH 2012

Websitewww.cityofhope.org/education/summer-student-academy/Pages/CURE-pro-gram.aspx

CONTACT PROGRAM



Graduate Experience for Multicultural Students (GEMS) Denver, Colorado June - August 2012 10 Weeksat the University of Colorado - Denver School of Medicine


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

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


Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation Internship Program Ridgefield, Connecticut TBA TBA


Selected GEMS interns will enroll in a researchinternship course, Topics in Biomedical Scienceand Research. The course will be conducted bydistinguished research faculty and will consist oflectures, demonstrations, and laboratoryresearch assignments with a mentor.

Program offers a unique clinical research oppor-tunity for college students pursuing careers inmedicine. Fellowship is designed exclusively forpre-medical students completing either theirjunior or senior year in college. It offers thestudent an introduction to research methodolo-gy, patient treatment, and ethical issues in med-icine as well as exposure to a broad spectrum ofhealth care providers within a large communityteaching hospital.

$1500 Award

$3400 stipendTravel Allowance

Program for highly motivated college studentswho are considering a career in medicine. TheProgram exposes students to a problem-basedlearning model of science education that is sim-ilar to that used in medical school

(203) 785-7545 MARCH 1, 2012Email: [email protected]

Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/yale.htm

StipendFood HousingTravel Allowance

Research & Development: Throughout thesummer, interns will have the opportunity towork side-by-side with top researchers in theirfield. Medical: Interns within the medicaldepartment have the opportunity to assist onboth early and late phase clinical trails. Whetherthe project entails enrolling participants into aclinical trail or measuring and analyzing trailresults, interns work with leading doctors andresearchers to assure that all BoehringerIngelheim products meet all requirements setforth by the Food and Drug Administration.

(202) 798-9988 CONTACT PROGRAM

Websiteus.boehringer-ingelheim.com/career/internship.html

The program addresses the needs of Universityof Connecticut freshmen and sophomores. Theprogram is designed to provide sound develop-ment of scientific and mathematical skills. Theprogram consists of courses in individual pro-grams of study in: Organic Chemistry,Biochemistry, Calculus, and Physics. The pro-gram will consist of 30 hours per week of for-mal lecture, laboratory, directed study, and clin-ical experiences addressing the needs of collegefreshman or sophomores.

(860) 468-3574 APRIL 2012Email: [email protected]

Websitemedicine.uchc.edu/prospective/hcop/college.html

$800 StipendRoom & Board

The program is designed to offer undergradu-ates who are completing their sophomore, orpreferably their junior year of college, and plantto purse a career as a MD, DMD, MD/PhD, orDMD/PhD. Once a student is accepted to theprogram and has selected and found a facultysponsor in which to do research, the student willmeet with the faculty sponsor in June and devel-op a research protocol and suitable projectdescription. The student will commit approxi-mately 30+ hours per week for the project andwill work with the faculty sponsor or his/herdesignates.

(860) 679-2487Email: [email protected]

Websitemedicine.uchc.edu/prospec-tive/enrichment/collegefel-low/index.html

$2500-$3000StipendHousing

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE

MARCH 2012(303) 724-6084Email: [email protected]

Websitewww.ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/med-icalschool/programs/GEMS/Pages/default.aspx

FEBRUARY [email protected]

Websitewww.harthosp.org/ResidenciesFellowships/default.aspx

MARCH 15, 2012



Summer Medical/Dental Education Program (SMDEP) Washington, DC June-July 2012 6 Weeksat Howard University


Georgetown Summer Medical Institute (GSMI) Washington, DC June/July 2012 Varies

STEP-UP/BSURE Program Baltimore, Maryland June - August 2012 8 Weeksat the University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Pre-Medical Summer Enrichment Program (PSEP) Tampa, Florida TBA 6 Weeksat The University of South Florida

Minority Students Health Careers Motivation Program Miami, Florida June-July 2012 7 Weeks



The program is designed to provide an educa-tional experience of exceptional quality that willstrengthen the overall academic preparation ofunderrepresented minority, disadvantaged, andlow-income students who express interest inadmission to medical or dental school.

(202) 806-0378 MARCH 1, 2012Email: [email protected]

Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/howard.htm

The program, combined with the informativeand supportive environment at GeorgetownUniversity School of Medicine, will providepreparation and insight for individuals exploringthe calling of medicine as a career, and thosemaking-up medical school course.

Tuition: $3,862 (5 Credits) for Human GrossAnatomy and Human Physiology; $3,090 (4Credits) for Medical Histology (MicroscopicAnatomy) and Medical Biochemistry. Tuitionincludes the use of course textbooks and labfees (for Anatomy).

Email: :[email protected]

Websitesom.georgetown.edu/prospectivestudents/specialpro-grams/summer

StipendHousingMeals

Summer research program for talented studentswho are dedicated to the advancement ofunderrepresented groups in the sciences andmathematics. Students selected for this intern-ship will experience state-of-the-art scientificresearch and are encouraged to consider andpursue biomedical research careers in areas ofspecific interest to the National Institute ofDiabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases(NIDDK).

(410) 455-2271 FEBRUARY 2012 OR Email: [email protected] UNTIL THE PROGRAM IS FILLED

Websitewww.umbc.edu/bsure

$4,000 StipendTravel Allowance

The program is designed for highly motivatedstudents who are preparing for medical schoolor physical therapy school. The program isdesigned to enhance the competitiveness of tal-ented minority and disadvantaged students foradmission into medical school and serves as arecruitment tool to USF COM Medicine. Theprogram includes a review of concepts in biol-ogy, general and organic chemistry, and physics.Participants will work closely with faculty inareas of reading skills, test taking skills, etc.Participants are also pared with physicians in thelocal community to have an opportunity todevelop an appreciation of the "real world ofmedicine" through weekly clinical experiences.

$1500 Grant

The program is designed to be a mini first-yearmedical education experience that exposes par-ticipants to classroom instruction in select basicscience courses in the medical education cur-riculum and offers physician-shadowing oppor-tunities. Great attention is placed on identifyingand removing any barriers that may prevent aparticipant from being a competitive medicalschool applicant. Workshops develop skills forpreparing strong admissions and financial aidapplications.

$400 StipendHousingMealsTravel Allowance

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE

JUNE 2012

(813) 974-4707Email:[email protected]

Websitehealth.usf.edu/medicine/osde/psep.htm

CONTACT PROGRAM

(305) 284-3187

Websitewww6.miami.edu/provost/oae/motivationprogram.html

LATE MARCH 2012



Health P.A.S.S. Program Des Moines, Iowa July 2012 4 Weeks


Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) Lexington, Kentucky TBA TBAat The University of Kentucky

MCAT-DAT Review Summer Workshop Louisville, Kentucky July-August 2012 4 Weeksat the University of Louisville School of Medicine

Buck for Brains Summer Research Program Lexington, Kentucky Varies 8 Weeksat the University of Kentucky

Frontier Nursing Service Courier Program Wendover, Kentucky TBA Up to 12 weeks

Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research Bethesda, Maryland mid-May-June 2012 8 WeeksNational Institutes of Health (NIH) Baltimore, Maryland

Frederick, Maryland


Summer Internship Program Baltimore, Maryland June-August 2012 9-10 Weeksat Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine


The program is for promising college sopho-mores and juniors to prepare for and enhancetheir chances of getting into medical school andother health professions programs. HealthP.A.S.S. will provide participants with well-rounded perspectives on what it's like to be amedical school student in osteopathic medicine,podiatric medicine and surgery, physical thera-py, and physician assistant studies. In the pro-gram's courses, clinical opportunities and prac-tical exposure, students will gain the confidencethat they can achieve a degree and career in anyof Des Moines University's four clinical areas-and the knowledge they need to get started.

(800) 240-2767 x 1709 FEBRUARY 2012

Websitewww.dmu.edu/healthpass

The program provides academic enrichment inchemistry and biology, as well as clinical experi-ences, medical and dental experiential activities,laboratory experiences, seminars, demonstra-tions, and clinical site visits.

(859) 257-1968; CONTACT PROGRAMEmail: [email protected]

Websitewww.uky.edu/pimser/programs/peppbrochure.pdf

Travel stipendMealsMaterialsHousing

HousingMeals

Free MCAT-DAT review workshop for eligiblestudents

(502) 852-8109; CONTACT PROGRAMEmail [email protected]

The program provides undergraduates at theUniversity of Kentucky with hands-on expe-rience in academic research, working along-side "Bucks for Brains" faculty. Students areplaced in research settings ranging fromplant biochemistry to computer science toAmerican history.

(859) 257-6322 APRIL 15, 2012Email [email protected]

Websitewww.research.uky.edu/students/rctf.html

$3500 Stipend

The program provides a type of internship foryoung women and men who had a desire to gointo the medical field. For young women andmen who are interested in the healthcare field,the Courier Program provides limited opportu-nities to shadow healthcare professionalsincluding: family nurse practitioners, physicians,nurse-midwives at FNS rural healthcare centers,at Mary Breckinridge Hospital and HomeHealth Agency.

(606) 672-2317 CONTACT PROGRAMEmail [email protected]

Websitewww.frontiernursing.org/Courier/TodayCourier.shtm

$42/week forroom and boardand for the com-plete 12 weeks -$500.

The program is designed to provide an inde-pendent research experience in biomedicaland/or public health research to undergraduatestudents under the direct mentoring of estab-lished Johns Hopkins researchers. During theprogram interns work one-on-one with facultyon research projects in their field of interest andattend a health science seminar series.

[email protected] MARCH 1, 2012 (more info avail mid Nov 2012)

Websitewww.jhsph.edu/student_affairs/diversity/DSIPFactSheet.pdf

Stipend

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE

The program provides experience in researchlaboratories to students of diverse backgrounds,including underrepresented minority studentsand students from economically disadvantagedand underserved backgrounds. The purpose ofthis exposure to biomedical and/or public healthresearch is to encourage students to considercareers in science, medicine and public health.

Email [email protected] FEBRUARY 1, 2012$3,000 StipendHousing



College Summer Enrichment Program Worcester, Massachusetts May 27-June 22, 2012 4 Weeksat the University of Massachusetts Medical School


Four Directions Summer Research Program Boston, Massachusetts June 11-August 2, 2012 8 Weeksat Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital

Siteman Cancer Center Summer Opportunity Program St. Louis, Missouri June - August 2012 10 Weeks

Biomedical Research Apprenticeship Program (BioMed RAP) St. Louis, Missouri TBA 10 Weeksat Washington University in St. Louis



A tuition-free four-week residential programfor undergraduate sophomores and juniorsinterested in entering the health professions.The goals of the program are to help partici-pants improve their qualifications and com-petitive standing for admission to profession-al, graduate and/or medical school. The pro-gram includes enrichment activities toenhance participants' academic and communi-cation skills. Sessions include the profession-al school application process with emphasison medical school admissions and financingprofessional school. Seminars on biomedicalresearch and cultural contemporary healthissues are also provided. Additionally, the SEPoffers participants the opportunity to interactwith medical students, scientists, physicians,and other health care professionals

(508) 856-2707 MARCH 15, 2012

Websitewww.umassmed.edu/outreach/sep.aspx

StipendHousingTravel Allowance

The focus of activity during the summer isparticipation in a basic science research proj-ect. Students are assigned a medical schoolfaculty mentor who will work closely withthe student to ensure completion of a proj-ect over the 8-week summer period.Additional program goals include:Experience cutting edge research at a leadingmedical school, understand the medicalschool application process, exposure toNative American health care issues, integrateNative traditions including talking circles,networking with Native American studentsand faculty

(617) 525-7644 FEBRUARY 8, 2012 @ [email protected]

Websitewww.fdsrp.org

Travel AllowanceHousingLiving stipend forfood and othernecessities

Program provides opportunities for undergrad-uate, pre-med and medical students enrolled atWashington University or other accredited uni-versities to work on cancer research projectsduring the summer. Opportunities range frombasic laboratory research to clinical research toprevention/control and population research.

(314) 454-8439 MARCH 1, 2012Email [email protected]

Websitewww.siteman.wustl.edu/internal.aspx?id=254

$3500 Stipend

As a BioMedRAP/CD-BioRAP participant,students will conduct independent researchwith outstanding faculty mentors, work in acutting edge science and technology environ-ment, gain exposure to some of the nation'sfinest biomedical investigators and an exten-sive variety of research topics, receive individ-ualized career counseling and develop yourcareer interests, participate in workshops, sem-inars and journal clubs, build a social networkwith student peers and faculty, and prepare toapply to the best Ph.D. and M.D. /Ph.D. pro-grams in the United States

(314) 362-7963 JANUARY 31, [email protected]

StipendTravel AllowanceHousing

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE DESCRIPTION PERKS PROGRAM INFO APPLICATION DEADLINE


Premedical Achievement Program (PMAP) East Lansing, Michigan June - July 2012 6 Weeksat Michigan State University


Summer MCAT Review Program East Lansing, Michigan May 21 -25 2012 1 Weekat Michigan State University

University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska June - July 2012 8 WeeksSummer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)

Summer Undergraduate Fellowship Program Newark, New Jersey TBA 10 Weeksat the Eppley Cancer Research Institute



The program is an intensive MCAT and med-ical school admissions preparation program isopen to disadvantaged students who will beapplying to medical school.

Email: [email protected] MARCH 2012(517) 432-6589

Websitewww.mdadmissions.msu.edu

The program is designed to help students pre-pare for the MCAT by building upon theirundergraduate learning by helping them to syn-thesize a stronger overall command of relatedscientific and biological principles. The programwill help students solidify the knowledge andskills students they have already developed intheir undergraduate work and show them howto tap the critical thinking skills necessary forsuccess in the MCAT. Instructors explain con-cept overviews, then provide guided practicethrough problem sets, followed by close analysiswith an eye to understanding MCAT philoso-phies and mechanics, and while instructors areavailable outside of class time for consultation,this approach may not be suited to every stu-dent's learning style.

Tuition: $800 (includes all materials, pre- andpost-testing and follow-up advising).

(517) 355-2363 MAY 1, 2012

Websitelrc.msu.edu/gre/CLIMB.php

Stipend maybe availablefor eligiblestudents

The program is designed to identify, recruit, andassist future dentists and doctors through acomprehensive six-week summer experiencefor talented freshman and sophomores. Theoverall goal of the program is to provide eachscholar the navigation tools necessary to reachtheir current and future goals. NMC's primaryfocus on core academics is a springboard forstudents in their pursuit of a career as a physi-cian or dentist. What makes this programunique is its emphasis on small-group learning.Instruction includes areas, such as health dis-parities, medical ethics, and public health.Various clinical shadowing experiences will helpstudents build a strong foundation in their cho-sen discipline as well as potentially spark newpassions in the medical and dentistry field.


Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/nebraska.htm

MealsTravel AssistanceStipendHousing

Students in the summer program work for 10weeks doing hands-on cancer research inEppley Institute laboratories. Students get totry research, learn techniques and new con-cepts, and work with professional researchers,all while earning a competitive summer salary.Virtually all of our former summer studentshave been successful in gaining acceptance tograduate and professional schools. Studentsgain hands-on laboratory experience in cancerresearch labs, daily interactions with researchfaculty, staff, and students, weekly seminarprogram, and present your own research at aposter session.

[email protected] MARCH 1, 2012

Websitehttp://www.unmc.edu/eppley/summer.htm

$4000 StipendHousing



UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical and New Jersey Dental Schools Newark, New Jersey June-July 2012 6 WeeksSummer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)


Biomedical Careers Program (BCP) at Robert Wood Medical School Piscataway, New Jersey June - July 2012 6 Weeks

Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons New York, New York June-July 2012 6 WeeksSummer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)

Gateways to the Laboratory Summer Program New York, New York June - August 2012 10 Weeksat Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan-Kettering



Program serves to advance our institution'score mission of meeting society's current andfuture health care needs by preparing individ-uals underrepresented in medicine and den-tistry, and doing so while championing cultur-al competency and humanism in all aspects ofeducation. SMDEP reaffirms our continuedcommitment to and involvement in pipelineinitiatives and will allow our two institutionsto attain even greater diversity. SMDEP willalso allow us to continue strengthening theacademic portfolios of these college studentsso that they are competitive candidates formedicine and dentistry.

(973) 972-3762 MARCH 1, [email protected]

Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/newjersey.htm

StipendHousingMeals

Academic enrichment program for under-graduate students interested in careers in thehealth professions. The program targetsundergraduates who are economicallyand/or educationally disadvantaged. BCPoffers an intensive six-week summer pro-gram to serve students at all stages of under-graduate education. Students take part in avariety of science enrichment and health-care-oriented activities.

(732) 235-4558 MARCH [email protected]

Websiterwjms.umdnj.edu/osap/bcp.html

Tuition Free

The program provides students seriously inter-ested in applying to medical or dental schoolwith a well-defined, integrated approach tolearning, focusing on the basic science curricu-lum needed to apply to medical or dentalschool. Students engage in intense labs, learn-ing-skills, and career development courses dur-ing the six weeks of the program, while attend-ing weekly clinical rotations and seminars. Theprogram strives to help students enhance andimprove their chances of becoming successfulapplicants and students at the medical/dentalschools of their choice.


Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/columbia.htm


The program was established for underrepre-sented minority and disadvantaged college stu-dents who wish to pursue the combined MD-PhD degree. Over the summer, students will:Work independently on a research project.Students will present and participate in weeklyjournal clubs. Participate in a hands-on tour ofthe Gross Anatomy Lab. Sit for a Mock MCATexam. Partake in a Lab Techniques Workshopand Clinical Skills Workshop. Participate inCareer Development Workshops. Scrub intosurgeries at the New York-PresbyterianHospital. Give an oral, written and poster pres-entation of your research in front of your fam-ily, friends and colleagues. Have on going men-torship by your "Big Sib" (a current MD-PhDstudent) as well as weekly meetings with theProgram's leadership.

(212) 746-6023Email [email protected]

www.med.cornell.edu/mdphd/summerprogram

$4300 StipendTravel expenses

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 1, 2012



Summer Undergraduate Mentorship Program Bronx, New York June-July 2012 6 weeksat Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University


Montefiore Medical Center's Health Opportunities Program Bronx, New York July - August 2012 6 Weeks(Monte-HOP)

Project Asian Health Education and Development (AHEAD) New York, New York June - August 2012 8 Weeks

The Travelers Summer Research Fellowship Program New York, New York June - August 2012 8 Weeksfor Premedical Students at Weill Cornell Medical College

Project Healthcare at NYU Langone Medical Center New York, New York June - August 2012 10 Weeks



The program will be comprised of a six-hourper week commitment to a shadowing experi-ence with an assigned mentor and fourteenhours per week of lecture attendance. Thesefourteen hours will be distributed into the fol-lowing three core curriculum components: sixhours clinical didactic, six hours medicalinformatics, and two hours of MCAT prepa-ration and test taking strategies. Students arealso expected to conduct a research projectwhile in the program.


Websitewww.einstein.yu.edu/hcoe

$1000 StipendTransportation Meals

The program is designed to promote, edu-cate, and encourage underserved youth topurse careers within the health fields.Students will gain valuable knowledge andprofessional skills through interactive work-shops, mentorship by physicians, observa-tion of physician-patient interactions, lectureactivities and independent learning.

(718) 920-4678 APRIL [email protected]

Websitewww.einstein.yu.edu/hcoe

The program is designed to provide trainingand experience for college students who areinterested in pursuing a career in the health carefield. The program consists of a practical fieldplacement, seminars and workshops, and par-ticipation in the development and completionof a community health project. Studentsexplore various health careers, and gain anunderstanding of the dynamics of the NewYork Asian American community and of cur-rent health issues impacting the health status ofAsian Americans in the United States.

(212) 379-6988 ext. 619 FEBRUARY 2012

Websitewww.cbwchc.org/job/ahead/ahead.html


The program is designed to give 25 premedicalstudents deeper insights into the field of medi-cine, including issues that greatly affect thehealth of traditionally underserved groups.Through the experiences of laboratory or clini-cal research, the students learn how one pursesa specific research problem under the supervi-sion of a faculty member, thus providing anearly education into basic research techniquesthat could be applicable to any area of medicine.

(212) 746-1057 FEBRUARY 1 2012

Websitewww.med.cornell.edu/education/programs

$140/WeekStipendHousingTravel expensesare paid for students that livesome distancefrom Ne w York

Project Healthcare is an innovative volunteerprogram for enthusiastic and inspired collegeand post-baccalaureate students. Created by theBellevue Hospital Center EmergencyDepartment, PHC allows students an opportu-nity to experience and observe many differentaspects of healthcare. The program is com-prised of several weekly rotations which arebased in the Emergency Department. It offersthe committed student a unique healthcareexperience, which is intended to furnish awealth of knowledge about the numerousoptions for a career in healthcare.

(212) 562-3041 JANUARY 2012Email [email protected]

Websiteemergency.med.nyu.edu/electives/college-students



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) Stony Brook, New York TBA 10 Weeksat SUNY Stony Brook University

Bronx-Westchester Area Health Education Center Bronx, New York May/July 2012 Varies



The program is designed to help college stu-dents decide whether or not a career in medi-cine is right for them. This renowned programoffers students the opportunity to complete afour-week summer internship where theyhave the chance to observe and ask questionsin order to learn more about the medical field.Throughout these four weeks, accepted stu-dents rotate through various departments inorder to gain a well rounded experience of thehospital. Some of these departments includethe operating room, emergency room, radiol-ogy, geriatrics, laboratory, psychiatry as well asthe rehabilitation unit. Participants also havenumerous opportunities to go on rounds withdoctors, observe physicians in their privateoffices and attend hospital conferences.

[email protected] FEBRUARY 15, 2012

Websitehttp://www.northshorelij.com/NSLIJ/Pre-Med+Internship+Program

The Access program of Weill Cornell GraduateSchool of Medical Sciences is a summer intern-ship program that trains underserved collegestudents in the biomedical sciences. Interns gainhands-on experience in a biomedical researchlaboratory and are encouraged to apply to PhDprograms. Selected students are placed in labo-ratories at the Weill Cornell Medical Collegeunder the mentorship of experienced facultymembers. n addition to the laboratory experi-ence, students attend lectures and discussionsaimed at enhancing their understanding of thecurrent status of biomedical research, the path-ways available for entering research careers, andthe range of available career opportunities.Students also participate in weekly journal clubs,attend workshops that teach them how to pre-pare for interviews and seminars, and take partin social activities.

(212) 746-6565 FEBRUARY 1, [email protected]

Websiteweill.cornell.edu/gradschool/summer/index.html

$3000 Stipend Up to $300 fortravel expensesHousing

The program is an intensive residential researchinternship program for underrepresentedminority undergraduates majoring in science,technology, engineering, or mathematics.Students will get a unique opportunity to workon independent research projects in cutting-edge laboratories under the direction of StonyBrook University faculty.

$3500 StipendRound-trip airfareHousingMeals

Health Careers Internship Program (HCIP):This program allows students aspiring toward acareer in the health professions the opportunityto work in a health care setting and interact reg-ularly with health professionals. Students mustbe Junior or Senior in college. Summer HealthInternship Program (SHIP): The program pro-vides a six-week summer placement opportuni-ty for junior/senior high school, and fresh-man/sophomore college students who haveexpressed an interest in the health field.Students are exposed to a variety of careers inthe health fields as well as to health issues affect-ing their communities.

(718) 590-1110 VARIES

Websitewww.bwahec.org/programs

PREMEDLIFE MAGAZINE

(631) [email protected]

Websitewww.stonybrook.edu/agep/undergrad.shtml#sri

FEBRUARY 2012



MD/PhD Summer Undergraduate Research Program Omaha, Nebraska TBA 10 Weeksat University of Nebraska Medical Center


Summer Program for Future Doctors at East Carolina University Greenville, North Carolina TBA 8 Weeks

Science Enrichment Preparation (SEP) Program Chapel Hill, North Carolina TBA 8 Weeksat the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Indians into Medicine Program at the University of North Dakota Grand Forks, North Dakota TBA 6 Weeks



The program is designed to provide appropri-ate experience and training to enable studentsto become competitive for admission to theschool's MD/PhD Scholars Program.Benefits of the program include, gainingresearch training and experience that willmake them more competitive for medicalschool, graduate school, other summerresearch programs, and MD/PhD program,exploring personal motivation for a career inmedicine and biomedical research, meetingthe UNMC faculty, participating in a studentposter session.


Websitewww.unmc.edu/com/summer/9.htm

$3000 Stipend

The program is an intensive, challenging, edu-cational summer program that allows partici-pants to experience the pedagogical style anddemands of the medical school curriculum.The Summer Program for Future Doctors is agreat opportunity for participants to strength-en their basic science knowledge base,enhance their critical thinking skills, gain a bet-ter understanding of the application andadmissions process, and exhibit their abilitiesto successfully handle the academic, social,and emotional demands of medical school.

(252) 744-2500 CONTACT [email protected]

Websitewww.ecu.edu/cs-dhs/ascc/SPFD.cfm

Housing andTravel Stipend

The SEP Program is an honors-level academicenrichment program for disadvantaged under-graduate students (rising sophomores and jun-iors) who seek admissions into graduate/healthprofessional programs. Students will engage inmore than 150 hours of classroom instructionin physics, organic chemistry, human physiolo-gy and quantitative skills/biostatistics, attendclasses and seminars in reading speed and com-prehension, test-taking strategies, essay writing,and interview techniques, visit local health facil-ities and network with health care professionals,and shadow a working professional in yourhealth field of interest.

(919) 966-2264 FEBRUARY 15, 2012

Websitenchcap.unc.edu/sep.php

2 programs. Pathway at UND: This program isfor tribal community college students planningto transfer to UND in health care or pre-healthcurricula. Pathway courses are taught byUniversity instructors, and are designed to pre-pare participants for advanced courses in theareas of anatomy, physiology, biology andphysics. Pathway also includes a learning skillscomponent to promote successful learningstyles and study habits. Pathway students are eli-gible to apply for one-year tuition waivers atUND. Med Prep at UND: This program is forAmerican Indian college upperclassmen andgraduates who are preparing for medical schoolcoursework. The program is divided into twomajor components: pre-medical studentspreparing to take or retake the Medical CollegeAdmissions Test (MCAT) and students enteringmedical school.

(701) 777-3037 MARCH 31, 2012

Websitewww.med.und.edu/inmed/summerprograms.html

Stipend Travel Stipend



Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland, Ohio June - July 2012 6 WeeksSummer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)


Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine Athens, Ohio June 11 to July 17, 2012 6 WeeksSummer Scholars Program

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 Cincinnati, Ohio Mid June - Early August 2012 8-10 Weeksat the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine

Chester Summer Scholars Program Cleveland, Ohio June - August 2012 10 Weeks

Pre-Professional Internship Program Cincinnati, Ohio January 3-6, 2012 1- 2 Weeksat Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine January 10-13, 2012

June 5-8, 2012June 12-15, 2012July 10-13, 2012July 17-20, 2012



The program is designed to identify, recruit, andassist in preparing as many highly talented,committed, and hard-working minority andeconomically disadvantaged students as possi-ble for careers in dentistry and medicine. Wehope to imbue our students with the confidenceand skills necessary to allow them to return toschool better prepared to perform well in morerigorous basic science and math classes.


Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/casewestern.htm


Summer Scholars participants prepare for thechallenges and rewards of medical school.Twenty-five applicants are selected each yearto participate in this rigorous six-week pro-gram designed to give you an intensive andrealistic introduction to the first-year curricu-lum at OU-COM. In addition to traditionalmedical school curricula taught by medicalcollege faculty, graduate students and upper-class medical students, the program focuseson case-based problem solving and small-group/team work.


Websitewww.oucom.ohiou.edu/summerscholars

Room and boardStipendProgram materialsRound-trip travelexpenses

The program provides students exposure tomedicine and will include experiences thatencompass sessions on navigating the medicalschool application process, introduction tothe Problem Based Learning (PBL) model insmall group sessions, hands on experience inthe gross anatomy lab, clinical lectures onmedical topics, diversity and cultural compe-tency exercises, and contact with physicians inthe clinical setting.


Websitewww.utoledo.edu/med/md/admissions/medstarz.html

HousingTravel allowance

The R.O.S.E. program is part internship, partearly acceptance to medical school, and partmentorship program. The purpose of the pro-gram is to provide stimulating experiences andcontact with academic medical faculty for highability, intellectually curious pre-medical col-lege students.


Websitewww.med.uc.edu/rose/index.html

ROSE studentshave conditionalacceptance to theUniversity ofCincinnati Collegeof Medicine;$3000 Stipend

The program awards 15 collegiate undergrad-uate students the opportunity to spend thesummer in clinical laboratory research atMetroHealth Medical Center. The program isan opportunity for pre-medical and scientifi-cally-oriented students to explore the poten-tial for a career in medical research or aca-demic medicine.

(216) 778-5940 FEBRUARY [email protected]

Websitewww.metrohealth.org/body.cfm?id=289

$2000 StipendFree ParkingSupplies andequipment areprovided

The Pre-Professional Internship Program atthe Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine(OCPM) is designed to provide insight intothe many facets of podiatric medicine and theeducation involved with obtaining the Doctorof Podiatric Medicine Degree.

(216) 916-7488 DEC 13, 2011 FOR JAN [email protected] MAY 15, 2012 FOR JUN PROGRAM

JUNE 19, 2012 FOR JUL PROGAMWebsitewww.ocpm.edu/?page=admission-internships



Summer Premedical Enrichment Program (SPEP) Cincinnati, Ohio June - July 2012 6 Weeksat the University of Cincinnati


Summer Premedical Academic Enrichment Program (SPAEP) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania June - July 2012 8 Weeksat the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Pre-med Enrichment Program Philadelphia, Pennsylvania May - August 2012 10 Weeksat the University of Pennsylvania Health System

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



Residential program for 18 college juniors, sen-iors, and postbaccalaureate premedical students.Students receive intensive exposure to medicineas a career through t ours, speakers, seminars,and shadowing. Students are exposed to themedical school experience and the academiccurriculum through a noncredit course in car-diophysiology, extensive interaction with med-ical students and faculty, and detailed guidancethrough the medical school application process.Emphasis is on strengthening critical think-ing/problem solving skills, increasing self-awareness, and making each participant a com-petitive medical school applicant.


Websitecomdo-wcnlb.uc.edu

This program, open to high school graduatesand college students, is designed specifically toprepare and support students who wish topursue careers in the field of medicine. Spendseven weeks in Level I, strengthening youracademic skills and learning more aboutcareers in medicine. Or, spend eight weeksimmersed and engaged in the work of physi-cian-scientists including laboratory researchand MCAT preparation through Level II.Both programs will enhance your skills andknowledge in science, writing and publicspeaking. You'll discover a challenging andstimulating program in the environment of amajor academic medical center.


Websitewww.medschool.pitt.edu/future/future_03_spaep.asp

$1000 StipendTransportationHousingMeals

The aim of this program is to prepareminority students for careers in academicmedicine or other positions of leadership inmedicine. Students will be engaged in a pro-gram of research, clinical observations,classroom exercises and teaching observa-tions, designed to stimulate their interest inacademic medicine. In addition, the studentswill be engaged in the following: activitiespertaining to the medical school applicationprocess and medical school admissions;classroom instructions and simulated testingto prepare the students for the MedicalCollege Admissions Test (MCAT).


Websitewww.uphs.upenn.edu/coeomh/premed.html

$2500 Stipend

This program is for students who have com-plete their second year of college with a GPAof at least 3.2 in a course of study that quali-fies them for medical school entrance.


Websitewww.stmaryhealthcare.org/body.cfm?id=132

Conditionalacceptance to theUniversity ofCincinnati Collegeof Medicine;$3000 Stipend

The program is designed for college studentswho have complete their junior year and arepursing academic programs leading to medicalschool. Doylestown Hospital physicians assistwith the program, which includes lectures and"hands-on" volunteer work on patient floorsand in many departments.


Websitewww.dh.org/body.cfm?id=616



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 Nashville, Tennessee June 1 - July 30, 2012 8 WeeksMedical Summer Internship Program



Participants will experience a medical educationas seen through the eyes of 3rd and 4th yearmedical students during their clinical rotationsin the hospital and clinical practices. The expe-rience can enlighten participants about a careerin medicine, whether they're about to entermedical school or are just beginning the appli-cation process. Participants will accompany theteaching team and 3rd and 4th year medical stu-dents on hospital rounds and be part of discus-sions between physician, patient, and medicalstudents. Throughout the five-day program,participants will also see patients in clinical prac-tice, attend department lectures, or go into theoperating room. Participants will have theopportunity to talk with 3rd and 4th year med-ical students about their experiences preparingfor medical school, what their first two yearswere like and what it's like now that they're outof the classroom and in the hospital.

Tuition: $1500


Websitewww.drexelmed.edu/Home/OtherPrograms/MiniMedSchool

The program offers biomedical researchopportunities to undergraduates who want topursue a career in biomedical sciences. Thereare two major tracks within the VSSA; theBasic Science Programs for undergraduatesinterested in careers in research, and theUndergraduate Clinical Research InternshipProgram for undergraduates who wish to pur-sue a career in medicine. Participation in anyone of the Summer Science Academy pro-grams is a valuable learning experience thatenhances a student's skills and makes him orher more competitive for acceptance to front-line graduate programs.


Websitemedschool.mc.vanderbilt.edu/ssa/

$2500-$4000Stipend

The POE program offers a unique opportu-nity for students preparing for careers in thebiomedical sciences, medicine, nursing,pharmacy, psychology, or public health togain biomedical and oncology researchexperience. The POE program provides ashort-term training experience (internship)in either laboratory research or clinicalresearch. Students participating in thePediatric Oncology Education program willreceive training in a superb academic envi-ronment created by the interaction of com-mitted basic scientists, research-orientedphysicians, and postdoctoral fellows.


Websitewww.stjude.org/poe

$4000 StipendHousing

This program is a summer internship for pre-medical students in the clinical area of organtransplantation. The internship includes shad-owing physicians on rounds in the hospital,observing and assisting in an outpatient/clinicfacility, and observing transplant and trans-plant-related surgical operations.

(615) 327-8814 FEBRUARY 25, 2012

Websitehttp://www.dciinc.org/summer_internship.php



Michael E. DeBakey Summer Surgery Program Houston, Texas Mid-June- August 2012 8 Weeksat Baylor College of Medicine


The University of Texas Dental Branch and Medical School at Houston Houston, Texas May-June 2012 6 WeeksSummer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP)

Health Career Opportunities Program (HCOP) Houston, Texas TBA 6 Weeksat The University of Houston College of Optometry

Physiology Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE) San Antonio, Texas June - July 2012 8 Weeks

Scholars Program in Organic Chemistry Dallas, Texas TBA 10 Weeksat University of Texas - Southwestern Medical Center



The Michael E. DeBakey Summer SurgeryProgram offers the pre-medical student aglimpse of a career in surgery long before theywill ever pick up a scalpel for the first time.During the eight weeks, students become famil-iar with the hospital environment, the operatingroom, and the lifestyle of a surgeon. They areexpected to become an integral part of theirsurgical teams by participating in rounds, sur-gery, and conferences.

[email protected] JANUARY 17, 2012

Websitehttp://www.debakeydepartmentofsurgery.org/home/content.cfm?menu_id=17

The program seeks motivated students from avariety of backgrounds including those who areunderrepresented or underserved that are inter-ested in pursuing a career in dentistry and med-icine, including those who have an interest inserving the underserved. The mission ofSMDEP is to assist students in enhancing theirknowledge, skills, and attitudes to make themmore competitive and to improve their chancesof becoming successful applicants to a medicalor dental school of their choice. SMDEPscholars will experience academic enrichment infive core areas: microbiology, anatomy andphysiology, pre-calculus/calculus, physics, andorganic chemistry. Students will have clinicalexperiences in such areas as emergency medi-cine, family practice, internal medicine, restora-tive dentistry, and oral surgery.


Websitewww.smdep.org/progsites/houston.htm


The program involves specific activitiesdesigned to enhance qualifications for entryto the professional program includingpreparation for the Optometry AdmissionTest (OAT), counseling regarding the admis-sion and application process, academiccounseling, time management training, andtest-taking/skills.


Websitewww.opt.uh.edu/students/undergrad

Financial aidassistance infor-mation is given toall students

This research program designed for highlymotivated college undergraduate students witha genuine interest in experimental researchcareers in biomedical science. Undergraduateswill have the opportunity to receive hands-onexperience in on-going research projectsunder the direction of a faculty member aswell as work with postdoctoral fellows andgraduate students.


Websitehttp://physiology.uthscsa.edu/new/teaching/undergrad_sum_program.asp

$3000 Stipend

The goals of the program are to improve col-lege students' performance in organic chem-istry and to provide these students with expo-sure to clinical medicine. The SPOC programwill be conducted on the UT Southwesterncampus in Dallas and has two components: 1)a 10 week course in Organic Chemistry and 2)clinical preceptorships with practicing physi-cians at UT Southwestern or in one of ouraffiliated clinical sites.

(214) 648-7517 [email protected]

Websitewww.utsouthwestern.edu/utsw

$1000 Stipend



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 Irvine, California June - July, 2012 2 Week Sessions



The program offers a summer MCATPreparatory Program to students enrolled inVirginia's historically black colleges and univer-sities and other Alliance schools. The programprovides students the opportunity to advancetheir skills through an intensive course.

(804) 287-6484 APRIL [email protected]

Websitehttp://prehealth.richmond.edu/mcat-preparation/virginia-nebraska-alliance.html

$1500 StipendHousingMeals

In the program students do independentresearch projects with faculty mentors for tenweeks in one of seven research areas: BioenergyCellular and Molecular Biology ComputationalBiology & Biostatistics Environmental BiologyNeurobiology Plant Development, Breedingand Genetics Virology. These seven disciplinaryclusters are intellectually woven together atweekly meetings in an interdisciplinary learningcommunity through evolutionary theory andthe research process. In addition to meetingwith the interdisciplinary group, students pre-pare research proposals, final papers, and oralpresentations summarizing their work.

(608) 262-5267 FEBRUARY [email protected]

Websitecbe.wisc.edu/srp-bio/

The summer program in Mwandi, Zambiaoffers students an opportunity to work orvarious research & service projects at theUnited Church of Zambia's mission hospi-tal, primary school or preschool. UCZ's mis-sion hospital compound is affiliated with thePresbyterian Church (U.S.A.).Immediatelyfollowing the spring semester, students willtravel to Mwandi to conclude their coursework which will consist of an independentproject and a medical experience at the UCZhospital compound. Students will spendapproximately 3 weeks on-site in Mwandiand will write a final research paper based ontheir independent project.

ELIGIBILITY:Students in good standingDavidson students enrolled in a pre-medspring course

[email protected] CONTACT PROGRAM

Websitewww.bio.davidson.edu/people/vecase/mwandi/index.html

Housing

This program is for high school students whoare not in college yet. UC Irvine's SummerPremed Program is dedicated to fostering inhigh school students an interest in pursuingcareers in medicine. It also seeks to empowermedical students and pre-professional stu-dents who are accepted as program coaches tobecome lifelong teachers and leaders.The two-week courses combine lectures given by UCIrvine School of Medicine faculty membersand hands-on workshops to provide studentswith a first-rate exposure to the medical field.Students also are exposed to the practice ofmedicine and patient care at UC IrvineMedical Center, Orange County's only univer-sity hospital.

[email protected] CONTACT PROGRAM

Websitehttp://www.som.uci.edu/summerpremed/



THEGOODS>>>Our pick of items that will add some flair to your premedlife and perhaps make you smile

IQ Test Gift Box Learn once and for all if you're an undiscoveredEinstein. Inside this IQ Test Box you'll find a WelcomeLetter, some information about IQ testing and intelli-gence testing in general, practice puzzles and brain train-ers, and a sealed IQ test. After completing the test, you'llhave to send it out and in less than a month, you'llreceive a certificate revealing how smart you are.

Signal Magnetic Bookends Not sure if they'll keep all your textbook stand-ing but these contemporary, shelf-popping redarrows are sure cool to look at. A magnetic barslips behind the covers of the outer books soyou don't even see them.

BrainstringsThis brain-teasing puzzle is just the kind of game you need

to get those juices flowing. With this puzzle, it’s aboutstretching your spatial reasoning to new limits. Elastic bandsconnect colored buttons on opposite sides of a clear, plasticcase. Your challenge is to group the buttons by color, sliding

them along the slots cut in the clear plastic, without gettingyourself (and the cords inside) all tied up in knots.

EDITO

R’S PI

CK


Graduation Good Voodoo Doll For graduates who need a gentle poke in the

right direction, this quirky dolls encourages therecent grad's nearest and dearest to pin theirhopes on his or her successful future. Madefrom upcycled graduation robes, friends and

family members can bestow wishes both sillyand sincere, including "uber salary," "stellar

roommate" and "scholarship money."

L.L. Bean Auto Aid in Bottle Whether you're planning a road trip or staying closeto home, this thoughtful kit was put together to giveyou peace of mind with the safety essentials you'llneed in an emergency. The 32-oz water bottle holdsa forever flashlight (no batteries required), utilityknife, screwdriver, digital tire gauge, safety flasher,reflective vest and poncho.

Coffer Lover Plant Kit This gift box includes everything needed togrow your own coffee plants. The CoffeeLover Plant kit is perfect for every fan of theroasted bean. The kit includes 1 packet ofcoffee plant seeds, 1 coconut husk starter pot,1 coconut husk compost disc which expandswhen watered, and 1 wooden plant maker.

74 | PreMedLife Magazine | September/October 2011

PreMedLifeMagazine


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STAYING HUMAN DURING RESIDENCY TRAINING:HOW TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE AFTER MEDICALSCHOOL by Allan D. Peterkin, MDAlthough it is a manual designed for medical students and the yearsbeyond, it would not hurt to get a peek at what is to come in yourfuture. From coping with stress, choosing a residency program toprotecting personal and professional relationships, Dr. AllanPeterkin covers all bases of what may be in store for you as a resi-dent in medical school. Not only useful for medical residents, thebook also provides hundreds of practical tips on coping with sleepdeprivation and time pressures.

BLUE COLLAR, BLUE SCRUBS: THE MAKING OF ASURGEON by Dr. Michael J. CollinsFrom his days as a construction worker to his entry into med-ical school, Dr. Michael Collins tells a story about his journey tobecome a doctor. Giving a candid account of the reality ofmedical school, Dr. Collins tells stories about the rote memo-rization in medical school, the petty tasks assigned to an on-callmedical student, and the shock as a fourth year medical student,of finding his intern had committed suicide. For a glimpse intothe deep and personal thoughts of what doctoring is like, Dr.Collins shares with readers his experiences with medicine fromthe very first time he delivered a baby to what it is like for himto be surrounded by death and pain on a constant basis.

SHORT WHITE COAT: LESSONS FROM PATIENTS ONBECOMING A DOCTOR by James A. Feinstein, MDFor all of the numerous medical school memoirs that fail to shareexperiences of the third year of medical school, Dr. James A.Feinstein takes on the job of telling it like it is - the clinical year thatis. Written when he was a third-year student at the University ofPennsylvania, Dr. Feinstein describes lessons learned from his veryfirst patients. Along the way, he learns from his own mistakes beforediscovering the answer to the question that plagues every medicalstudent: "Do I have what it takes to become a doctor?"

THE FINE ART OF SMALL TALK: HOW TO START ACONVERSATION, KEEP IT GOING, BUILDNETWORKING SKILLS - AND LEAVE A POSITIVEIMPRESSION!by Debra FineYou may be saying to yourself, "the art of small talk, what does thathave to do with becoming a doctor," but if you know what's best foryour future in medicine, you would know that from your medicalschool interview to your interaction with patients, the art of conver-sation is quite important. Focusing on when the gift of gab will workin your favor would be your medical school interview of course andas the book's title implies, you are going to want to know how toleave a positive impression. In her book, Debra Fine, a nationallyrecognized communication expert, shares the techniques and strate-gies anyone, including pre-medical students, can use to make the bestof any conversation - like the conversation you'll be having with yourmedical school interviewer perhaps. In addition, this book will helpreaders learn to feel more comfortable in any type of situation - onceagain, like the conversation you'll be having with your medical schoolinterviewer. So if you haven’t gotten the hint - this book will helpprepare for nailing your medical school interview.

IN THE STACKSBooks we thought that aspiring doctors might be interested in reading<<<


BETTERLIFEBETTERYOU>>> Information on taking care of yourself as a student living a busy pre-med life

Health | Wellness | Fitness | Nutrition | Mind & Bodynewstouse

According to findings published in the American Journal ofEpidemiology, researchers found that women who reportedexercising the most in recent years were about 20 percentless likely to get depression than those who rarely exer-cised. Turns out, however, the more hours they spentwatching TV each week, the more their risk of depressionrose. The study, which involved thousands of women, alsorevealed that more time being active might boost self-esteem and women's sense of control, as well as theendorphins in their blood, although the study could notprove directly that watching too much television and avoid-ing exercise cause depression. "Higher levels of physicalactivity were associated with lower depression risk," wrotestudy author Michel Lucas, from the Harvard School ofPublic Health in Boston.

Exercising May Be Linked to LowerDepression Risk

Researchers who conducted a study on diet pat-terns have reported that eating a diet rich incertain vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids andlow in trans fats may be best for brain health.

"The combination of the B vitamins, theantioxidants C and E, plus vitamin D was themost favorable combination of nutrients in theblood for healthy brain aging in our popula-tion," says study author Gene L. Bowman, ND,MPH, assistant professor of neurology at theLayton Aging & Alzheimer's Disease Center,Oregon Health & Science University, Portland.

For the study, forty-two men and womenhad MRI scans to measure brain volume.When the research team evaluated how muchof the risk of declining mental abilities wereattributed to diet and how much to other fac-tors, such as age or high blood pressure, they

found that those most consistently linked tobrain health were the vitamins, omega-3 fattyacids, and trans fats. Bowman said he agreesthat the standard advice to eat more fruits andvegetables and fish and avoid trans fats seemswise. Although maybe not at the top of yourfood choice list, sardines, flax seeds and wal-nuts are excellent food sources of omega-3fatty acids.

In addition to eating healthy, many expertsalso say that diet only plays a part in makingsure your brain stays health. Getting the prop-er amount of sleep, exercising regularly, andavoiding certain “unhealthy behaviors” likesmoking and drinking alcohol, are also a partof keeping your mental status in check.

The study is published online in the jour-nal Neurology.

Diet Rich in Certain FoodsHelps Promote Brain Health


>>> See upcoming health and fitness events athealthandwellness.weebly.com

In a new study, research from Johns Hopkins Universitybelieve that printing a 'physical activity equivalent' onunhealthy drinks and snacks will reduce their popularityif the evidence is easy-to-understand, and right in frontof them. For the study, researchers posted three differ-ent signs outside corner shops to see which was best atdeterring young people from drinking high-calorie fizzybeverages. One sign asked if the consumer knew thatthe average can of fizzy pop contains 250 calories. Theother asked if they knew that the drink is 10% of theirrecommended daily intake. The third revealed that afizzy drink would take 50 minutes of running to coun-teract the soaring sugar and calorie content. Researchersdiscovered that although the calorie information waseffective (sales dropped by 40%), the physical activityequivalent was the most shocking to teens, as the drinksales dropped by 50%. "People generally underestimatethe number of calories in the foods and beverages theyconsume," said Dr. Sara Bleich, one of the researchersinvolved with the study. "Providing easily understand-able caloric information-particularly in the form of aphysical activity equivalent, such as running - mayreduce calorie intake from sugar - sweetened beveragesand increase water consumption among adolescents."

StudyProposesPrinting NewInfo onUnhealthyFoods

Kids who start out with bad relationshipswith their mothers are more likely to end upobese as teens, a new study has revealed.

The study, which involved 977 children,found specifically, that those who had pooremotional bonds with their mothers as tod-dlers were more than twice as likely tobecome obese by 15 years old, comparedwith children who had healthy relation-ships. In other words, the less secure thechildren's early bond with their mom was,the greater their chances of obesity.

More than one-quarter of the toddlerswho had the lowest-quality relationshipswith their mothers were obese as teens,compared with 13 percent of those whohad closer bonds with their mothers in theirearly years, according to the report pub-

lished online and in the January print issueof the Journal of Pediatrics.

"It is possible that childhood obesitycould be influenced by interventions thattry to improve the emotional bondsbetween mothers and children rather thanfocusing only on children's food intake andactivity," lead author Sarah Anderson, anassistant professor of epidemiology, said inan Ohio State University news release.

"Sensitive parenting increases the likeli-hood that a child will have a secure patter ofattachment and develop a health response tostress," explained Anderson. "A well-regulat-ed stress response could in turn influencehow well children sleep and whether they eatin response to emotional distress - just twofactors that affect the likelihood for obesity."

Mother/Child BondLinked to Greater Risk Teenage Obesity


BETTERLIFEBETTERYOU

As a dietitian, each January, friends, family,acquaintances, and even strangers will askfor advice on how to recover from two

months of holiday eating. Usually they want to knowwhether I recommend various fads – such as juicefasts or boot camp regimes - to completely revamptheir diet at great personal sacrifice. People are usu-ally surprised to find that my advice is less about mak-ing drastic changes and more about making small,lasting changes to your current lifestyle that make youfeel good in the long run. If you are looking to makechanges with the New Year, consider these sugges-tions for a happier, healthier 2012:

A JOURNEY OF 1000 MILES BEGINS WITHA SINGLE STEPMaking changes to your lifestyle isn’t easy, butthe good news is that little things matter. In theNew Year, take a look at your health habits andidentify the areas where you already makehealthy choices. From that foundation, it is easi-er to choose areas you think you could improvewithout much difficulty as well as long-termgoals. Then, start small - pick something towork on that you could imagine doing the rest ofthe year. Maybe you want to walk a longer routeto work, drink more water, or have an apple aday. Any step is a positive step. For example,you can lose 12 pounds in a year and keep it offif you eliminate one soda a day from your dietrather than trying a crash diet.

BE NICE TO YOURSELF A big part of having a healthier lifestyle is learn-ing to take care of yourself physically and emo-tionally. Be your own cheerleader and find timeeach day where you are doing something to nour-ish yourself physically or emotionally. Be com-passionate - remember that changing is hard, andnot adopting a new behavior perfectly is normal.The best way to succeed in adopting healthierhabits is to forgive yourself for your mistakes, and

do the best you can every day or every meal tomake a healthy choice for yourself.

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFEThe key to sticking to a healthier diet is to enjoywhat you’re eating, and one way to enjoy your foodis to expose yourself to new, interesting flavors reg-ularly. Challenge yourself to try a new fruit, veg-etable, or whole grain every week. Try new recipesor visit your local farmer’s market to try foods thatmay be in season.

DON’T THROW OUT THE BABY WITH THE BATHWATERMany newly health conscious people I meet makedrastic changes to their eating habits when trying tolose weight – suddenly someone with an Italian her-itage has given up all pasta and carbohydrates in pur-suit of “eating healthier.” In reality, all foods are okaywhen consumed in moderation and depriving your-self completely of foods you love usually leads toovereating later on.

WEIGHT IS ONLY ONE INDICATOR OF HEALTH Try to consider many health indicators when you areevaluating whether the changes you are makingimprove your health. How is your energy level andmood? How is your hair and complexion? Have youlowered your blood pressure or cholesterol? Do youfeel stronger? Sometimes we discount these things

which are less visible than a number on a scale, but inreality, many of these indicators matter more foroverall health and happiness.

FRIENDS MAKE THINGS MORE FUNEnroll a friend in your health pursuits. Interested inhealthy cooking or learning to salsa dance?Encouraging a health-minded friend to join you willmake it more likely that you will stick with your newhabit throughout the year

THE BIGGEST THREAT TO A HEALTHYDIET IS HUNGERWe are hardwired to seek highly palatable, calorie-laden convenience foods when we don’t feed our-selves sufficiently or regularly. Most people need toeat every 3-4 hours in order to keep hunger at bay.Set yourself up for success by spacing out your eatingat regular intervals throughout the day and payingclose attention to not become too hungry or too full.

SLOW DOWNIt takes 20 minutes for your stomach to tell your brainthat you are starting to feel full. Eating too quicklydoesn’t give you a chance to know how full you actu-ally are. Try sitting down for a meal and take at least20 minutes to enjoy your food- you may find that youeat less without thinking about it.

Cheers!

NEW YEAR’SRESOLUTIONSTips for a Healthier

2012by MAYA VADIVELOO, MS RD

Making changes to yourlifestyle isn’t easy, butthe good news is thatlittle things matter

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 ALLIANCE21st ANNUAL PREMEDICAL CONFERENCE

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

Saturday, February 11, 2012at Stanford University School of Medicine

ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 2011http://summa.stanford.edu/conference/

THE STRENGTH TO HEAL and learn lessons in courage.

©2011. Paid for by the United States Army. All rights reserved.

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 ourSoldiers, your country and your career.

To learn more, call 877-406-5863 or visit healthcare.goarmy.com/info/n474.

www.healthcare.goarym.com/info/n474


BETTERLIFEBETTERYOU

TOPfiveTIME-SUCKS

PICTURE THIS: You sit down with your computer and organ-ic chemistry books, focused and ready to power through yourstudies for the day. Fast-forward to an hour later: You're browsingyour favorite blog checking out the latest posts.

Minutes spent studying: 0Minutes spent reading blogs: 57

You've just experienced a time-suck, a classic time managementpitfall. And, like any pitfall, it's all about identifying them andknowing how to avoid them.

1. WORKING WITHOUT A TO-DO LIST You spend more time figuring out what to do orcompleting 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 completethe next day. You'll be focused and know what youneed to get done.

2. NOT SCHEDULING YOUR TASKSOnce you have your daily To-Do list, estimate howlong each task might take and then schedule thosetasks into your calendar. If you haven't planned timeto get something done, it's not going to happen.

3. POOR LOGISTICAL PLANNINGThis is especially critical for students that are offcampus often for work or meetings. You know

what I mean… somehow you have a 10:00 a.m.class on campus, a lunch meeting on the other sideof town, classes in the afternoon, and anothermeeting back on the other side of town thatevening. Finally, you're heading back to campus tostudy well into the night. Not a good use of yourtime. To the extent possible, manage your sched-ule based on location. Then, the evening beforeyour meetings, plan your route to figure out thequickest way to get from point to point.

4. CONSTANTLY MONITORING EMAIL AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Responding to email as it comes in, especiallywhen it's not urgent, takes your focus away fromother tasks. Schedule time on your calendar -10:00 a.m., noon, 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. - to quicklyreview email and respond to urgent messages. Forall other messages, respond before you go to bed.And, while you're at it, schedule time for

Facebook, Twitter, and reading your favoriteblogs-preferably during your lunch break or at theend of the day.

5. YOUR STUDY BUDDY, CHATTY CATHYAlthough she's always ready to rehash last night'sepisode of The Real Housewives of OrangeCounty, it's not a good use of your time. Practicethe polite exit. Something like: "Cathy, can wecatch up a little later? I'm struggling with thisassignment." That's definitely an excuse anyonecan understand and respect.

by KORINNE KUBENA BELOCK

KORINNE KUBENA BELOCK is the founder and ownerof Urban Simplicity (www.urbansimplicitynyc.com).Korinne combines a passion for an organized world anda love of problem solving with a sense of humor, cheer-ful attitude, Southern charm, and the persistence to getresults for her clients. Follow Korinne:

Facebook.com/UrbanSimplicityTwitter @UrbanSimplicity


COLLEGE101>>> Helpful advice to manage and deal with life as a college student

Be a leader! As a pre-med student, you’ve probably heard this manytimes already but don’t let it go in one ear and out the other. You mayhear these words often but do you really know what being a leadermeans? Well, first of all, being a leader can mean different thingsbecause there are many different types of leaders and many differentleadership 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 lead-ership skills. And because being a leader is such an important character-istic to have as a doctor, you might as well get started on honing in onthis skill now.

Being a leader doesn’t always mean that you are presiding over agroup of people. You could be a leader in an intellectual way by askingprobing questions during class, helping fellow classmates out who maybe struggling with a certain topic, or even organizing a study group.

Another way to develop your leadership skills is by learning how toeffectively collaborate with others. As you prepare for a future in medi-

cine, your ability to work with others is critical to your success as a doc-tor. Knowing how to work with others in a group and even take on theleadership role within this group is a difficult skill and one that not manypeople can say they have. But like any other skill, it is one that can bedeveloped over time. It is quite important that you put yourself in situ-ations where you are able to develop your leadership skills. From work-ing in groups for lab projects to planning events for your pre-med soci-ety or organization, there are many opportunities to develop and refineyour leadership skills.

While it may be an uncomfortable situation for some, stepping intoa leadership role will only make you a better individual, and better doc-tor, in the long run. Having leadership skills in your “back pocket” andbeing able to pull them out when you need to is priceless. No one saidthat you have to be a leader 24/7, but knowing how to delegate, facili-tate, and coordinate is a skill that will come in handy at many differentpoints in your life. So step up to the plate and make something happen.

DON’T BE A FOLLOWER*

*Except for when you follow us on Twitter @premedlife of course!

Global Healthcare for Pre-Health StudentsMontevideo, 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 CoursesCHEM 340 – World Healthcare Systems – Providesstudents with knowledge of how health care is provided to various socioeconomic groups in both the United States andUruguay, comparing the strengths and weaknesses of eachsystem. Students will participate in medical missions clinics andvisit 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 questionsof 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 naturalresources. Other topics impacting communities will be discussed, including social justice, poverty, affluence, war and the influence of technology.COMP 353 – Hearing Rehabilitation – Explores habilitationand 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 CommunicationSciences 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 CostTuition and fees are the same in Latin America as they are inAbilene (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 weekJust as in Abilene, student aid may be available. Talk to yourfinancial aid advisor as soon as possible. Call 325-674-2300.

ApplicationAcceptance 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 InformationAll 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 79699-8226Office: Hardin Administration Building 124Phone: 325-674-2710Email: [email protected] Web: www.acu.edu/studyabroad

110509

®

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.

INSTEAD OF JUST HANGING OUT ON SATURDAYS

I HELP KIDS HANG IN THERE

AT SCHOOL

PreMedLife Magazine - January-February 2012

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