NEOMED’s Student Services staff welcomed 160 first-year College of Medicine students and 17 master of anatomical science (MAS) students with a virtual medicine orientation July 21 through July 23. Via Zoom, polling, speakers, panelists, virtual resource tables and various other creative technology, the students learned about support services; completed technology and testing training; and met key faculty, staff and college leaders. Most important, they began to develop community and connections.
Students had the opportunity to meet President Langell and Dean Elisabeth Young, M.D. (’85), as well as NEOMED alumna Preeti Venkataraman, M.D. (’03), a medical officer with the FDA, to further strengthen their identity with NEOMED. In addition, students practiced the new peer instruction component of the new curriculum.
Nate the Walking Whale even made surprise appearances via Zoom, giving our new students chances to guess his location on campus. Congratulations to our Whale Watching contest winners!
Orientation for these students culminates Friday, July 24, with the Class of 2024 Medicine White Coat Ceremony at 1 p.m. Faculty and staff are encouraged to attend through the Zoom link emailed to all who responded to the earlier invitation. Family and friends are welcome to join via the College of Medicine White Coat Ceremony livestream link.
--Submitted by Sandra Emerick, Ed.D., senior executive director of Academic Affairs and Student Services