The Heersink School of Medicine hosted new student orientation for the class of 2027 July 24-27. Our MS1 students spent the week learning the tools and information they need to begin their journey through medical school.
On Monday, students tried on their white coats and heard from faculty like Craig Hoesley, M.D., senior associate dean for medical education, and Anupam Agarwal, M.D., senior vice president and dean. They also learned about BlazerPulse, UAB’s community engagement platform that connects students, faculty with our partners throughout Birmingham and beyond.
On Tuesday, students learned about their upcoming curriculum and academic success from Kevin Leon, M.D., associate dean of undergraduate medical education, Will Brooks, Ph.D., assistant dean for preclinical education, and Brook Hubner, Ph.D., director of academic success programs. They also participated in a riveting discussion about diversity, equity, and inclusion, a pillar of the UAB community, led by Carlton Young, M.D., assistant dean for diversity and inclusion. Later that afternoon, students were introduced to active learning which allows students to collaborate in small groups, using digital teaching tools, focus on discussion, and delve deeply into topics.
Wednesday featured the “Birds of a Feather” breakfast that allowed students to get to know each other according to their interests such as creativity or cooking. Later students were separated into their learning communities (LC). The LC sorting ceremony is a big deal because students remain with the same LC throughout their four years of medical school. The LCs cultivate long-term relationships in a safe and inclusive environment to promote personal wellness and professional development for all medical students.
On Thursday, students met their teachers and received tips on how to prepare for their first day of class.
Throughout the week, students spent time with other students who have been with they are such as orientation leaders, MS4 officers and LC representatives. They also attended various mental health sessions such as tips on staying well, avoiding the comparison trap, communicating with faculty and finding a mentor and getting help when you need it.
