For Better Health in Our Communities: The Miller School M.D./M.P.H. Class of 2029 Orientation
The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s M.D./M.P.H. Class of 2029 kicked off its dual-degree journey at this year’s orientation.
What a difference a few weeks makes.
In their pre-University of Miami Miller School of Medicine lives, the 47 students in the M.D./M.P.H. Class of 2029 were wrapping up undergraduate exams, graduating or finishing gap years. Now, they are dual-degree medical students, on their way to becoming doctors with population health expertise.
Since 2011, the Miller School’s M.D./M.P.H. program has produced physicians who see the world through a public health lens. These graduates have gone on to pursue leadership roles at hospitals, academic medical centers and national organizations.
“It’s always a privilege to meet the M.D./M.P.H. cohort during orientation and to be part of their exciting, four-year path toward earning both degrees,” said Shirin Shafazand, M.D., M.S., professor of medicine and director of the program at the Miller School. “Our students bring such diverse perspectives, enriching both the coursework and their interactions with peers and patients. I’m confident they will grow into compassionate, transformative leaders who advocate for better health in our communities.”
The Class of 2029 By the Numbers
This year’s cohort comprises an eclectic group of students. Fifty-nine percent of its 47 students are women. The overall average age is 23. The students come from 11 states and 31 undergraduate institutions, including Cornell University and the University of Pennsylvania.
As students mingled with their peers, they expressed excitement about going to medical school in Miami. Many are looking forward to food tours, learning Spanish and enjoying Miami’s sun and sand.
“I’m eager to become a public health–informed physician who provides compassionate, tailored care and addresses factors that shape community health,” said Himanshi Verma, who completed her undergraduate degree in neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania. “I’m inspired by the work of Miller students and alumni and look forward to growing alongside peers who share my commitment to public health and advocacy.”
This year’s group continues the scholarly excellence set by the M.D. Class of 2028, matching its 3.83 undergraduate GPA and 515 MCAT score (91st percentile nationally). Biology was the most popular undergraduate major, followed by psychology, neuroscience and biochemistry.
“Our committee excels in picking out smart and caring future doctors,” said Louis Pizano, M.D., M.B.A, professor in the DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery and associate dean of admissions at the Miller School. “This is an outstanding cohort that will make a difference on a global scale. Miami is a great place to study medicine and public health. The diversity of clinical and research experiences here is unparalleled.”
A Deep Understanding of Health Care
The M.P.H. portion of the curriculum consists of 36 credits, spanning three phases. During phase one, students gain insight into the foundational and translational sciences. Phase two consists of integrated clinical clerkships and continued work on M.P.H. capstone projects. In phase three, the curriculum deepens understanding of the health care system and introduces key public health concepts. Students conclude their capstone project and take the Certified in Public Health exam.
“This program is truly special and holds a very close place in my heart,” said Gauri Agarwal, M.D. ’00, associate dean for curriculum and associate professor of medicine at the Miller School. “The bonds you form will last well beyond medical school and lead to incredible accomplishments as alumni. Our role is to nurture your talent and support your growth within this institution.”
The students were also introduced to a variety of programs and support services that will set them up for success during their medical school journey. The information technology team ensured each student was properly set up with digital access and communication tools. Student services highlighted wellness initiatives and professional development opportunities, while academic enrichment services outlined peer tutoring and coaching options.
“A strong foundation of health is essential to uplift impoverished communities,” said Megan McGrath, who completed her undergraduate degree in medicine, health and society with a concentration in global health at Vanderbilt University. “I want to make that difference through primary care patient counseling and evidence-based health education programs.”
Tags: community health, Dr. Gauri Agarwal, Dr. Louis Pizano, Dr. Shirin Shafazand, M.D./M.P.H. Program, medical education, public health, student research