Pre-Medical Summer Institute at Baylor College of Medicine

By Carlos Alvarado-Richter

This summer I took part in Baylor College of Medicine's Pre-Medical Summer Institute (PSI). I was able to take part in this wonderful opportunity thanks to Baylor 2 Baylor BS/MD program. The PSI has served as a brief glimpse into the life and academics of a medical student. I and my fellow peers in this cohort of BS/MD and Joint Medical Admissions Program (JAMP) students have learned so much. For four weeks, I attended lectures covering the basics of anatomy and physiology, spent time in the anatomy lab studying cadaveric donors, shadowed practicing physicians in the Texas Medical Center, volunteered at the Houston Humane Society, and explored Houston! 

The most impactful moments have been speaking with the physician faculty and current medical student mentors, who gave invaluable advice on what it takes to be a good student and, more importantly, what it means to be a perceptive and empathetic clinician. 

A definite highlight was seeing BCM's art and history exhibits. Decorating the halls of the anatomy lab were reproduced illustrations of the work of Andreas Vesalius and portraits depicting key moments in the history of medicine. Also, there is a very impressive statue and exhibit dedicated to Dr. Michael DeBakey commemorating his lasting contributions to medicine.

I am deeply grateful for this experience. Many thanks to all the faculty and medical students who have mentored our cohort and made this program possible.