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We aim to focus not only on your education, but your well-being. One of the first things students notice as they embark on their medical school journey at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine is the focus on wellness and relationships. Built into our philosophy is the importance of fostering an environment where you and those important to you will thrive. We've taken steps to encourage self-care and healthy behavior throughout your time at Mayo Clinic.
Among the many student support resources spanning all areas of well-being and numerous initiatives aimed at promoting wellness, there are a few that remain student favorites. An example is the Student-initiated Wellness Activity grant program that offers financial support to students who want to organize their own wellness events. In the past, some have used this grant to start a kickball league while others have used it for a painting night.
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Beyond the coursework, many of our students participate in interest groups on campus, student activities, and are involved with community service. There are also many student traditions and events that students look forward to every year.
A few student favorites include:
Throughout their training, Mayo medical students are involved in community service. During the first year, students are introduced to community organizations. During the second year, students work in community health clinics and are provided a variety of other options to give back and gain experience.
During your first week on campus, you’ll get plugged in with a mentorship family, called your MedSib family. This "family" consists of one medical student in each year and a faculty member. These mentors assist and support your professional transition, but also make sure you’re finding ways to get involved into the community.
Students rely on these groups for advice on the best ways to study, what to expect in a specific class, tips for time management, where to go for pizza, and everything in between. Students say this is one of the best things about the program!
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I think some of my best mentors were my medical siblings. I had an awesome relationship with them, which has allowed me to ask tons of questions about everything from what books to buy to where to go for date nights in Rochester. They’ve helped me keep perspective, stay balanced and find meaning in the day-to-day life of medical school.
Kari Phillips, M.D.
Recent graduate
Current student
"Working on the Student Life and Wellness Committee has been a fun way to drive creative wellness initiatives that provide balance for students amidst our studies. I’ve also led the LGBTI in Medicine Interest Group, and this has allowed me to help educate others on LGBTI health issues, to advocate for queer students and patients, and to foster community in the medical school. This has been some of my most energizing work."
Class of 2021
"It's so hard to choose my favorite student activities! I think the baking committee, which is in charge of our monthly birthday bashes, is one of my favorite activities as I love baking. I also enjoy learning more about global health, and planning activities and speakers as a leader of our global and public health student interest group. I also enjoy helping plan ways for students to learn more Spanish and about various Latino cultures through the med Spanish interest group."
