Career Counseling and Programs
Entering into medical school is only the first step in the direction of a professional career in medicine. With job descriptions, duties, and specialties changing every day, students have many options and opportunities once they obtain a medical degree. One of our main goals in the school of medicine is to emphasize to students that they should follow their passions and explore all career opportunities. To achieve this goal, the school of medicine offers a comprehensive career counseling program. Whatever paths students choose for their medical careers, the school of medicine strives to support them in their endeavors.
Careers in Medicine Website
Supported by the AAMC, the Careers in Medicine program focuses on completing and understanding a personal assessment, on career exploration and specialty information, on informed decision-making, and on successful implementation of the students' career choices. The AAMC Careers in Medicine web site offers an interactive and self paced process that assists students in picking a specialty and a work environment. Each student is taken through a self assessment, examining his or her own personality, desired work environment, and professional style of interacting with others. Students are given many career options that fit the criteria determined by the assessment, and they are encouraged to explore the options. The AAMC emphasizes how important it is for students to use the personal assessment information actively as they explore their career options; however, it is not an equation for career choices. By talking with physicians who work in their chosen field, students have a better opportunity to assess their lifestyle and career choices as they see them in action in the lives of others. With assistance from Student Affairs within the School of Medicine, students can be well prepared for the match and for choosing to apply to appropriate residency programs. Students can contact the office of Student Affairs for a user ID to the web site.
Career Day
Halfway through the third year, an entire day is reserved for career exploration. This day consists of a two-hour workshop aimed at helping students to understand the decision-making process. The students are provided an opportunity to meet with physicians from different specialties in order to further explore the specialty.
Mentoring/Shadowing
First and second year students are offered an opportunity to shadow a community physician in a specialty of their choice. This program is sponsored by the School of Medicine Alumni Office. Please contact them for details and availability.