Medical School Spotlight: Schulich Medical School – Western University
What is a typical week for a Schulich medical student?
Medical students have class throughout the morning on all weekdays. Once a week, we have Patient Centered Clinical Methods (PCCM) in the afternoon, where we work with Standardized Patients to simulate clinical scenario (ie. Physical exams, history taking, etc.). We also have Patient-Centered Context, Integration and Application (PCCIA) once a week, in which we are divided into small groups, paired with an experienced physician and debate controversial/integral elements of medicine. Lastly, Social Medicine is a few hours a week, in which we learn about social aspects of medicine (ie. Epidemiology, cultural competency, etc.). You can spend the rest of your time doing observerships with the plethora of physicians in London/Windsor, doing club activities or doing anything you enjoy!
Why should I pick Schulich School of Medicine over other medical schools?
The biggest pro is the class culture. Schulich does an excellent job of creating an inclusive, comfortable learning environment in which students can truly feel like they are working together. There are small group sessions almost every week, so you can count on personal interaction with your lecturers and classmates. Informally, the Councils do a solid job of putting together a wide variety of events to ensure everyone in the class has something they are excited to go to. Next, observerships are so easy to do, so it is very easy to see how your education will translate in clinic, something I found lacking in undergrad. The same can be said about research; there are programs and initiatives specifically to get medical students involved in research. Lastly, Schulich allows students to actively change their education via the Best Curriculum On Earth (BCOE), which is a string of surveys that are sent out throughout the year which are quickly used to change the curriculum in the short and long term.
How can you make your application stand out for this medical school?
Do things you care about! While that might seem obvious, its not done as much as it should be. Yes, there are things like research and hospital volunteering that are good to have, but they are not required. Having a few long-term experiences what caused you to affirm your choice to invest in medicine will help you get into Schulich and make the most out of your medical career. Everyone’s interests are different – find out what you enjoy doing (that’s also productive) and do it a lot. Good luck!
