Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has a long history of ensuring a more inclusive and equitable educational experience for students of all backgrounds.
PCOM, a premier osteopathic medical school with three campuses, has implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting equity in student recruitment and community outreach. Among these is the Fundamental Integration Required for Excellence (FIRE) program, an optional pre-matriculation initiative designed to support incoming students from underserved communities.
The FIRE program, available to incoming doctor of osteopathic medicine students, offers participants an early start to their medical education by moving them into campus two weeks before classes begin. The program focuses on academic excellence, cultural awareness, and community engagement, providing students from underserved backgrounds, who have faced challenges related to educational opportunities, cultural, or geographical factors, a head start in preparing for the demands of medical school.
Throughout the two-week experience, students attend lectures on foundational medical topics as well as sessions on mental health and diversity in health care. Participants also have opportunities for community engagement, such as volunteering at a local food bank and touring area hospitals. Additionally, the program helps students establish connections with faculty and fellow classmates, easing the transition into the rigors of medical school.
“Being a student doctor can be overwhelming,” said Jason Walker, PhD, assistant dean of transformational learning and associate professor physiology, in a statement. “Medical school has a much faster pace and more is expected from students than in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program. We want to make sure students understand this before classes start. During FIRE they get an idea of what’s expected from them and what to look forward to. That way our students are prepared to succeed from day one.”
The orientation also familiarizes them with the campus and surrounding area, further aiding in their transition.
PCOM’s FIRE program reflects the institution’s commitment to fostering and inclusive environment that promote student success. The program’s emphasis on academic preparation, cultural awareness, and community engagement is helping bridge the gap for underserved students, ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive in their academic and personal lives.
