Hello Entering Class of 2018!
We hope this edition of Vital Signs finds you well-rested from summer break and excited to start medical school in just a few short weeks!
On behalf of Medical Student Services and the Orientation team, we want to welcome you to the UABSOM family. The purpose of this article is to provide you with information on what to expect during Orientation, reminding you of some last minute business to take care of, and hopefully ease any qualms you may have about embarking on this new season of life.
Orientation is an exhilarating week full of “firsts,” and we are honored to walk alongside you during this time! This week is jam-packed with your white coat fitting, the Sorting Ceremony into Learning Communities, a social calendar to explore the best of Birmingham, and many more exciting events. Most importantly, Orientation is where you will first meet your classmates, future colleagues, and lifelong best friends. The relationships that you begin to form during Fundamentals will encourage and sustain you throughout the challenging, yet rewarding, journey that is medical school.
In regard to Orientation Week, we have a few tips and directions to keep in mind:
- Park in the 16th Street deck, which is on the corner of 16th street and 10th S. This is the closest deck to Volker Hall and we will have signs directing you to check in!
- Attire is business casual on Monday - we will be taking a quick photo during check in for your identification within the medical school. On Tuesday, we will be having a college colors day, so wear a shirt or jersey from your alma mater!
- Please bring laptops. You will need them for several sessions, but we will instruct you on when to use these.
- Please remember your Social Security card. We will be checking these during check-in, and you will be unable to receive your locker and OneCard if you do not bring it.
As always, please be sure you have completed all things on the Admitted Students check list. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you might have. We look forward to meeting you all and hope that you enjoy your last few weeks before the studying begins!
See you soon!
Meredith Thomley and Olamide Larinde
Co-Orientation Directors