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For Eamonn Rogers, small classes lead to great friendships – and that camaraderie is a helpful resource when facing the arduous challenge of becoming a doctor.
The second-year student studying neurology is part of the first class of medical students enrolled in The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry – Windsor Program.
“It’s been a very positive experience,” says Rogers.
In September 2008, the program launched as a partnership between Schulich, UWindsor and Windsor area hospitals. The Windsor program is being delivered at the Medical Education Building on the campus of the University of Windsor, at Windsor Regional Hospital, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital, and at other regional education sites through the Southwestern Ontario Medical Education Network.
The charter class of 24 students in the Windsor Program were members of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s 147-strong class of 2012. The curriculum is exactly the same at both institutions. It utilizes videoconferencing and other distance education techniques, and is a welcome addition to the region – one of the most medically under-serviced in the province.
“We’re really close,” said Rogers adding that the experience overall has been very enjoyable. Visiting Western campus four to five times a year keeps the students connected and helps them network effectively, he says.
Fellow student Caitlin Thompson adds that, “my expectations were far exceeded. They have done everything for us to make sure we had a good experience.”
In Fall 2009 the Windsor Program welcomed 30 new first-year students, and it will welcome 38 new first-year students in Fall 2010.
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