In the Spotlight

Being a student at a new medical school means being a fish in an aquarium. You’re constantly being watched and people are always tapping on the glass to see how you react. On our first day as medical students, we filed down the glistening mezzanine stairs of our brand new building with straight posture and stretched smiles, modeling patiently as news cameras panned over our class.

Volunteers provide EMS coverage for the Swamp Rabbit 5K.

Our Miss America-esque display was joined by a multiple of the most prestigious local figures in education, politics and medicine. We mingled politely, ate our delicate food with the correct utensils, and smiled when the cameramen decided to capture our “candid” moments.

We heard speeches about how we were the doctors of the future and how our school was revolutionizing medicine. All the while I couldn’t yet tell the difference between a spleen and a kidney.

Demonstrating a history and physical with the Macy Foundation.

The spotlight only dimmed as my classmates were tasked with doing presentations, demonstrations, interviews, commercials, and photo shoots throughout the year. Unfortunately the pace of medical school never slowed. Often it was when we were at our most sleep deprived, frustrated, and cynical that we would be asked to be the smiling face of the university.

As odd as the attention felt, I always understood the pride that everyone involved took in our school.

Posing with Dr. Ben Carson

Everything from the building to the curriculum was expertly crafted with our education in mind. I can’t blame the powers that be for showing off a little bit.

Being a new school with the eyes of the public on us has provided us with some opportunities not otherwise given to other medical students. Here some unique moments my classmates had through the lens of a camera.

Intubation demonstration for the Macy Foundation.

Matt Eisenstat