My Plan of Action

by Tamera Cox, Admissions Counselor and Recruiter

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine is ever changing. Whether it is leadership, curriculum, tuition or students. Each of these issues is important, however, a priority must constantly and consistently be placed on students. The diversity of the class must be given one of the high priority. Why?

As we are shaping and molding generations of people to treat and change lives, there is no greater need of the patient than for their doctor to treat them with respect and dignity. In doing so, doctors must be culturally sensitive and aware of the issues that dictate one's culture and background.

It is my belief that racism, hate, prejudice, disrespect, and a constant diminishing of one's character kill people daily in this country. Cultural sensitivity and diversity seem to have become "buzzwords" of the decade. It is not enough to call it - we need to practice it. During my stay here at MSUCOM, I plan to do all that I can to put action behind the word.

In this day and age, it is rare that doctors will only treat patients who share the same exact ethnic background. In order to help, they must do no harm. It would seem logical that a doctor must be able to discuss healthcare, prevention and wellness in the context of a patient's culture and belief system. Osteopathic physicians should be able to respectfully discuss race and prejudice and its' effect on health when appropriate.

Not only do I see it as MSUCOM's duty to have and maintain a culturally diverse population of students, but also to educate all students, faculty and staff on issues of cultural sensitivity.

Though I have never been, nor do I ever intend to attend medical school, I would venture to guess that due to the rigors and demands of medical school, students lean on their peers for support, understanding and sometimes, guidance. If there is not a diverse body of students, how are ALL students able to grow, learn and mature in a manner that will be most helpful to their patients who are of different backgrounds?

My plan is not only to recruit applicants to MSUCOM, but also make sure that those admitted, successfully complete their medical education. In an effort to be sure that this is a success, I have a three-part plan, including recruitment, admissions and retention.

Recruitment I have created a pool of potential applicants that span a period of time . I educate families and communities on osteopathic medicine. This includes facilitating presentations to elementary school children, undergraduates, churches and community groups, organizations and community leaders.

Admissions If MSUCOM wants to continue attracting a diverse pool of applicants, then MSUCOM must make this college attractive to them. This includes maintaining an atmosphere of cultural sensitivity. We work to maintain cultural well-being and respect. The environment should continue to create a sense of comfort for all students.

Retention What good is recruiting a diverse class of students if they do not stay? While it is the understanding that we treat our students with respect, dignity and sensitivity, my plan is to ensure that all students feel that they are treated with respect, dignity and sensitivity with respect to the diversity the bring to the college. We have created a resource of services and programs that will assist students to grow as competent, well-adjusted individuals and blossom into doctors who have the ability to serve any population that with respect, dignity and sensitivity.

It is my goal to carry this paln out with the utmost respect for our future osteopathic physicians and their patients.

To pre-med advisors, admissions/student services personnel, faculty and staff who come in contact with potential medical school students:

1. Educate/update yourselves regarding the various options that exist within the medical field. Make sure that students have access to all their options

2. Educate students on those options that are available. Many people don't know or have a misunderstanding about osteopathic medicine (and other fields). Please inform and educate students or refer them to the appropriate source.

3. Refer students to me our any of our admissions staff for information regarding pre-application counseling, the admissions process, medical school in general or MSUCOM.

4. For initial introduction to the profession, refer them to www.aacom.org or MSUCOM's website, http://www.com.msu.edu. There are some great links!

5. Be sensitive to cultural issues and the role that you will play in an applicant's life based on your sensitivity or lack thereof.

To students considering medical school:

1. Get pre-application counseling. You will be amazed at what you may not know

2. Review our website: http://www.com.msu.edu

3. Contact me directly to receive general information, make contact with current medical students, or inquire about MSUCOM.

4. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH!!! Go to the appropriate source!

 

I wish you all the best in your pursuits!!!

Tamera L. Cox, M.S.W.
Admissions Counselor and Recruiter
Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
A-128A East Fee Hall
East Lansing, Michigan 48824-1316
Phone: (517) 432-5277
Toll Free: (888) 895-4686
Fax: (517) 355-3296
E-mail: coxt@msu.edu