VCOM View Vol 8-1

factors and prevent disease, and better ways to deliver healthcare. These are areas that address important challenges we face in healthcare today.” When it comes to VCOM’s future, there seems to be nothing but bright possibilities under the new President’s leadership. These opportunities will not

will continue to make a difference. We now have over 1,600 graduates who have completed residency, some of whom have returned to the Appalachian region, furthering our mission.”

VCOM has high standards for its leadership to ensure the College moves forward, continuing its success.

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only further the accomplishments of the College, but keep it thriving like never before. In the last year, potential student applications continued to rise, exceeding over 12,000 applicants for 500 first-year positions across the three campuses. In regards to the influx of student interest, Dr. Rawlins said, “This demonstrates that not only our community but students from the entire region have recognized our impact. I believe we appeal to students who are seeking to make a

The faculty, staff, and students are passionate about their profession and serving those who need it most, a crucial aspect of the College’s history and future. With the mission to send physicians into rural areas to compensate for the decline in medical care, VCOM is educating and preparing service-oriented individuals through regimented curriculum. To the prospective medical student, Dr. Tooke-Rawlins offers this advice: “To assure medicine is your dream, gain

Our greatest growth over the next five years will be seen in research and discovery. We established our new five-year strategic plan, which put in place a new infrastructure for research, tripling our research funding.

difference while in medical school. In the past decade, approximately 20% of our student body has come from communities with a population of less than 10,000 and 40% from communities of less than 30,000 in population. These are the students who are more likely to return to rural areas. We have also been able to achieve to report increasing diversity with 20% of the incoming class from under-represented minorities on two of our campuses, and 15% on the third, which is greater than the majority of medical schools across the country. We are recruiting a student body that

experience through volunteering in several fields so you know what medicine is really about and the dedication it requires. If you know these things and then you choose medicine, never give up on your dream. You will have to study diligently, work hard, and remain focused. In addition, do not forget that the patient is why you should want to enter medicine. Spend time with people from diverse backgrounds to learn what each appreciates about life and holds dear. This will make you a better communicator and a better physician.” ◄ ‘ ‘

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