What was the most difficult thing you've had to overcome in your life? (And follow up question - What did you learn from that experience that will help you through tough situations you may encounter in the future?)
SDN, spoke with graduates and students, school website
What impressed you positively?
Everything - the faculty gave sincere and enthusiastic briefings, the students seemed to have a great comraderie, the area was nice, etc.
What impressed you negatively?
The students seemed to be confused about the military commitment following graduation. I had done my research, but if I hadn't they probably would have confused me. I heard about half the students we talked to say that they would begin paying back their 7 year commitment when they began their residency (which is not true - residency doesn't count toward payback). It seems like they would have figured that out by the time they're 2+ years into their education there... I also felt like some of the students I talked to (but certainly not all) had a general lack of military knowledge.
What did you wish you had known ahead of time?
Nothing
What are your general comments?
It was my first time visiting Bethesda, and I really liked the area. There are tons of shops and restaurants just blocks from the University. The downside is that housing in the area is expensive, and I don't think I would want to commute from the more affordable areas (although it seems lots of the students do commute, and they're more than happy to talk to you about it.)
The interviews were laid back and conversational. The morning of briefings was long, but we got to hear from several docs in different branches of the military. I was really impressed that several of them, even after long careers as military doctors, still have an idealistic view of what it means to be a doctor and what it means to serve in the military.
📍 On-Site Experience
Who was the tour given by?
Student
How did the tour guide seem?
Enthusiastic
What is your in-state status?
Out of state
What were your total hours spent traveling?
7+ hours
What was your primary mode of travel?
Automobile
About how much did you spend on room, food, and travel?