Hello all,
I was recently accepted and I absolutely fell in love with this school, I just have a few questions regarding the curriculum. From what I understand the curriculum is very, very intense I'm just trying to get a better grasp on what this actually means. How often do you actually study for weekly? Does the one midterm and one final per block allow for any free time? Does the class go out together on weekends? What blocks are the best? How about the worst? Is there any way to prepare for the difficulty?
I like the fact that it is intense because of the resulting board scores, I'm just a bit nervous! I understand everyone is different I'm just looking for some different perspectives from current students, whether that's good or bad. Thank you!
@amerepedestrian
The most important thing to realize is that this is medical school. If it's not intense, it's not working. My general impression is 2-3 hours of studying a day at least during the week, so long as you are productive. I don't tend to be productive, so I need a lot more. But, hey, mental health.
In school, you will make time for the things that are important to you. Understand up front you have limited time, so managing that time is crucial. If you spend every waking moment studying, you will burn out. Conversely, if you spend all your time partying... well, don't do that. Here in Joplin, people tend to go out on the weekends, I'd assume it's the same up in KC.
As far as what blocks are good/bad:
You will be told at the beginning of the year Biochem is the worst. Once you finish that, people will tell you Immuno is the worst. Don't listen to them. Muskuloskeletal is the worst. Adding Gross Anatomy Lab on top of lectures is killer. I have heard that Gastrointestinal will be tough starting in January as well. Ask again in May and we can give you a better idea on first year.
As far as preparing for the difficulty, there isn't a whole lot you can do. Just make sure you know how to manage your time wisely and how to say 'No' to unnecessary commitments. Find a hobby that you can continue during classes to keep you sane. If you like to read, find a good series (I'd recommend Wheel of Time, but I'm a fantasy fan boy), if you play an instrument, learn some new songs. Just find something that makes you feel alive and hold on to it. Take the summer off before school if you can afford it, otherwise work the minimum possible to sustain you. Just relax. Don't preread, you don't know what to read anyway. If you absolutely have to learn something, find some medical terminology books and learn some abbreviations.
Overall, just remember that if you have been accepted, you can handle it. Try not to stress and enjoy the next four years!