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taught him what being a doctor was all about, and how the osteopathic
philosophy set D.O.s apart. He certainly took it to heart.
"When you treat patients," Mr. Poole says, "you
have to address the mental and spiritual issues that people have."
So when the Osteopathic Medical Scholars (OMS) program was created
in 2000, Mr. Poole jumped at the chance to participate. OMS is an
honors program for MSU undergrads who are interested in a career
in osteopathic medicine. OMS students participate in unique programs
and community service activities. They also receive academic advisement
from MSUCOM faculty and take special classes on doctor/patient relationships
and osteopathic specialties. If the students complete all the requirements
of the program they are guaranteed admission into the MSU College
of Osteopathic Medicine.
However, that doesn't mean that they get a free ride. The application
process for OMS is as rigorous as any med school. In addition to
having good grades and a commitment to community service, applicants
must also submit a personal statement and references and be interviewed
by MSUCOM faculty and staff. OMS began its recuitment during Mr.
Poole's sophomore year, and he was among the first admitted to this
elite group. Only 10 students are accepted as Osteopathic Medical
Scholars each year.
He may not be in medical school yet, but Mr. Poole has already
proven his commitment to health issues. He volunteers at Olin Health
Center as a sexual health mentor, working with other students to
provide health awareness programs in the dorms and on the campus
radio station. He also works part-time as a nursing assistant and
as a home care worker.
"I like working with older people," he says. "They're
fun and there is so much you can learn about life from them. Also,
when you are doing rehabilitation, you see your patients getting
better and that is rewarding."
Medicine isn't his only interest. He also enjoys art and philosophy,
which is his undergraduate major. It's too soon to know where osteopathic
medicine will take him, but no one will be able to say he wasn't
prepared. MORE
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