University of Virginia School of Medicine
Charlottesville, Virginia

Overview

Tweny-three years of experience providing one of the nation's leading medical school prep programs. The depth and breadth of the program, and the experiences it offers will provide students with a wealth of information and ideas that will make them more competitive candidates for medical school. The UVA SMDEP seeks to:

• Expose students to the "real world" of medicine through a clinical medicine lecture series on cutting edge topics in health including: stem cell research, telemedicine, bioethics, nanotechnology, bioterriosm, morphogenesis, regenerative medicine, and global health; the role of physicians in promoting good health, the fact and fiction surrounding addiction, sexually-transmitted diseases including HIV and AIDS; introduction to obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, geriatrics, dermatology, emergency medicine, radiation oncology, and endocrinology; cardiovascular diseases in the underserved population; cancer - current status and future prospects; challenges and rewards of a career in medicine; Medicine-vocation vs. career; and careers in biomedical research. In order to provide extensive opportunities for interaction with physicians, the students participate in a series entitled "Where Doctors Work," visiting clinical settings such as the autopsy, radiology department, cardiology clinic, a senior center (one-on-one interview with patients), primary care clinic, general internal medicine and a state of the art Simulation Center. Mentoring by eminent physicians and dentist.
  
  
• Provide academic enrichment involving the application of biology, chemistry, physics, and quantitative techniques to medicine, as well as enhancing students' problem-solving, writing, reading comprehension, and other communication skills. Personal counseling is provided. A career development program is directed toward exploration of the medical and dental profession and an individualized education plan that will include identification of other appropriate summer experiences.

The do's and don'ts of the medical school admissions process are presented in a series of workshops. Simulated medical school interviews are conducted and the development of a personal statement. Participants attend workshops on financial planning, learning skills, test taking, time management, and stress management. There is a medical school recruitment fair during which representatives from medical schools meet the participants to describe their schools' admission criteria, programs, and support services.

Finances

• Meals: Meal plan available in university hospital cafeteria (optional)
  
  
• Travel Assistance: A total of $1,000 stipend and travel provided
  
  
• Stipend: Disbursed in 2 installments (weeks 1 and 5)

Living

• Housing: Students are housed in University of Virginia dorm suites with cooking facilities
  
  
• Health Insurance: Limited coverage provided
  
  
• Social Activities: Various social mixers (i.e. cookout, receptions, talent shows) and visits to local/regional attractions
  

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