Excitement, anticipation, a few tears of joy were all part of the experience at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine and Heart Institute today as the medical students of the Class of 2027 celebrated their first official day of class.
The admissions team, led by Edwing Daniel, PhD, sorted through more than 5,500 applicants to select 182 of the best and brightest candidates representing a wide variety of backgrounds including (unique prior careers). This cohort of students represents another academically strong class and the most diverse yet, with a record 23% from those groups traditionally underrepresented in medicine (URM). The life experiences and previous careers of the class are equally diverse with students who were NCAA athletes, weightlifters, gardeners, and musicians.
Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM, executive vice president of USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, gave a presentation on the book The Obstacle is the Way, which provides a framework for turning obstacles into opportunities. He said whether in medical school or as a practicing physician, obstacles will be a mainstay in health care. Knowing how to navigate those obstacles will be the difference between success and failure in medical school, and positive patient outcomes as a physician.
“Life is tough. Medical school is really hard. There are a lot of obstacles ahead of you. You’re going to embrace them. When you do, you’re going to be incredibly successful,” said Dr. Lockwood to his newest medical students. “You’re entering, truly, one of the most noble of professions. We have a joyous job. But it’s also one of the hardest jobs you can imagine.”
The new medical students will receive their first white coat during the Class of 2027 White Coat Ceremony Aug. 31.
About the Class:
182 Students: 126 Core, 56 SELECT
Median GPA: 3.92
Median MCAT: 518
52% Male, 48% Female
23% Under-represented in medicine
Residency: 47% Florida, 53% Out of State
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