Answers to Faqs by Students

Answers to FAQs by Students

“How do I find a doctor?” Direct students to the “Healthcare Information for Students” brochure posted on line.

“Do I have to do research to get into residency or remain competitive?” Research is not necessary for the majority of specialties. However, it is helpful and suggested for the more competitive specialties (Dermatology, Ortho, Radiation Oncology, Surgery and Surgery subspecialties). If you want to pursue a competitive specialty you need to have a strong academic record, do well on Step 1 and having some interest above and beyond your course work. You should distinguish yourself from other applicants by doing whatever it is that is most important and of the greatest interest to you. Your application will be strengthened by a productive research experience. Health policy work, community service or teaching experience can all benefit your candidacy for residency as well. You should do research if are interested, exploring or continuing your research work or interests.

For additional information and advice contact Marie Hartman, Director, Career Development Center.

“What do I have to do during the summer between my first and second years?” Where do I go for additional information? A large portion of each class use this “last free summer” to relax. Others spend time travelling. A community experience through Bridging the Gaps is a common opportunity that many Drexel students take advantage of. Some students pursue research interests with faculty members, or continue on projects that they worked on before coming to Drexel. Students have spent the summer working (lifeguarding, coordinating orientation, waiting tables, doctor’s office…). Yet others have pursued international medical experiences, clinical externships and shadowing. The possibilities are endless, and there is no rule as to what students “should” be doing. Most important is that students do something that is truly interesting to them, that they will enjoy, and that they will be able to talk excitedly about in the future. For additional information and advice contact Marie Hartman, Coordinator, Office of Medical Student Research and Director, Career Development Center.

“ Who can I go for help with my financial aid? Queen Lane Medical Campus SRC Office Room G-27 2900 Queen Lane Philadelphia, PA 19129 http://www.drexel.edu/financialaid/

SRC College of Medicine Telephone Numbers 215-991-8206 — Registrar 215-991-8210 — Financial Aid 215-991-8268 — Student Accounts 215-843-5243 — FAX

“ Where do I go for a tutor?” The Academic and Enrichment office provides individual and group tutoring free of charge. Students may request a tutor or inquire about becoming a peer tutor by contacting: Janet L. Moore, PsyD, Director of Student Assessment and Enrichment Programs. Additional services include: confidential academic and personal counseling and educational diagnostic testing when needed. It offers a number of support groups and provides services or referral for stress management and resolution of personal problems.

“If I fail an exam, will I have to repeat the course?” In IFM: must-past finals are the only exams that you are required to pass. Usually, though, if an individual exam is failed, students are asked to meet with the course director to discuss how to ensure that future exams are successfully passed. Some course directors require that you participate in “remediation sessions” prior to the subsequent exam in order to provide additional support.

In PIL: remediation of exams varies depending on the subject and block. “If I fail a course, will I have to repeat the entire year?” Students who have had academic difficulty during any given year are reviewed by the Student Promotions Committee. Decisions about remediated are made by consensus of the entire committee. If one course needs remediation, the advice of the respective course director is usually followed. Depending on the situation, decisions may include undertaking a remediation exam, repeating the course during the summer, or repeating the entire year.

“Who should I contact if I’m having trouble with fill in the blank?” If you are having trouble with specific subjects matter, the best place to start is to see the respective Course Director. Many have opportunities for additional assistance already in place; others are willing to offer personal help; yet others can put you in contact with other faculty in the department from whom you can receive assistance.

In addition, you can also plan on getting help from a 2nd year Academic Assistant (tutor) (this should not replace contact with the faculty).

If academic trouble seems to be more global, Dr. Moore can provide academic counseling, study strategies, and educational testing.

If after exhausting all other resources you find you’re still having difficulty contact Dr. Parrish for additional guidance.

Recommend Steps for Seeking Assistance for Students 1.) Course Director 2.) Peer Tutors 3.) Dr. Moore 4.) Dr. Parrish

Here is how the Medical School Academic Assistant Program works:  Go to this website http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/  You will see Med Student Wellness Site/ Academic Assistants (click on)  that will take you to Academics which has listed Academic Assistants for both IFM and PIL. If anyone believes their anxiousness and/or depressed feelings go beyond what is normal, or if you don’t know what normal is, or if you still feel overly anxious after meeting with the Course Director and Academic Assistant, than don’t hesitate to make an appointment with either Dr. Diane Gottlieb: [email protected] - 215-991-8532, Dr. Janet Moore: [email protected], 215-991-8214.

Issues/complaints about such things as: facilities, parking, gym, financial etc. Should be directed to Shay Myers, Director of Student Affairs. There are several other venues where these issues are addressed: Breakfast Club Meeting (Students Deans and Staff), Class Officer & Deans Meeting.