Starting medical school can be a bit daunting, but the new Academic Preparedness Program at UNMC is here to help students feel more confident before classes begin. This weeklong initiative, launched in August and optional for all incoming medical students, aims to ease the transition by introducing them to lecture content, effective study habits, and wellness practices.
For students like Ben Ravnsborg, the program was a big help. “It gave me a solid foundation on how everything works—note-taking, useful resources, and even where to find the presentations,” he shared. The panel of second-year students provided valuable insight, showcasing real experiences and tips for success.
Eben Samuel found the early exposure beneficial too. “Everyone talks about the massive amount of material we’ll cover. Getting a preview was reassuring. It taught me that it’s not just about memorizing everything, but understanding the broader concepts,” he noted.
For others, like Santosh Kota, the program helped ease back into study mode after a gap year. “I wanted to get into the right mindset before grades started counting. I also learned new study techniques that focus more on comprehension than rote memorization,” he explained.
Networking was another key component. “You start recognizing faces and names, which is helpful as classes get busier,” said Ravnsborg. Maximus Lauritsen, who has his sights set on neurology, added, “Meeting potential lab partners and others with shared interests is really encouraging.”
Skye Kusler mentioned how important it was to create early connections. “Med school sounds competitive, but everyone here is so welcoming. Knowing we’re all in this together helps ease the stress,” she said.
Dr. Aleisha Nabower, the program director, shared that initial feedback indicates students appreciated the blend of practical preparation and connection-building. “The week went remarkably well. Students were eager to try different techniques and discover what worked for them. This program really helped them form support networks that will be crucial throughout their journey,” she observed.
Interestingly, a recent study highlighted that a strong support system in medical school can improve stress management and academic performance. The research showed that students with solid connections were 30% more likely to report feeling less overwhelmed during their studies. This aligns with what the UNMC program aims to foster.
Dr. Nabower expressed her gratitude for the teamwork that made this initiative possible, emphasizing that collaboration among faculty, upperclassmen, and support staff was the key to its success. “This program is a great example of how teamwork can create a supportive environment for students,” she concluded.
In a world where medical education is constantly evolving, this kind of preparatory program not only equips students with essential skills but also helps cultivate a strong community. As the landscape of medical education continues to adapt, initiatives like this could become standard practice, giving future students a solid foundation for their careers.
