Dedicated Workspace Helps Students Thrive in Clinical Years
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A new workspace is helping medical students find balance. The MD Student Clinical Education Workspace opened in Hofheimer Hall in August.
The 7th floor room is outfitted with a kitchen, dining areas, comfortable chairs and a dozen computers with space to work independently or in a group.
It was designed to provide a convenient place for students to rest or study as they begin their work in clinical spaces.
“When you’re a third-year medical student you don’t really have a lot of time to go to the library or study spaces across campus, so this is great to have a spot near the hospital and clinics to just quickly go up and do some studying,” said James Vettichira, MD Class of 2027. “This is a fantastic addition to the resources available to students.”
The computers are also equipped with Epic, the electronic health record system used to manage patient information and coordinate care, a tool that will become a big part of their role as a physician in the future.
“Having access to this software in a convenient space is so helpful to all of us,” said William Lee, MD Class of 2027. “Not only can we do our work here, but we can collaborate on care plans and really develop our skills as clinicians together.”
Medical Education leadership said the creation of the space was a direct response to student feedback. “They told us they needed a dedicated environment to study, recharge and collaborate while balancing the demands of clinical training,” said Ronald Flenner, MD (MD '89), chair of Medical Education and professor of Medicine. “We believe it’s important to invest in these resources because we are committed to creating an environment where they can thrive academically and personally.”
In addition to the academic spaces, the room includes a refrigerator, sink, microwave and several tables for dining.
The suite will require a valid badge for entry and will be open 24 hours a day for medical students.