A Physician’s First Step: M.D. Class of 2028 Orientation
The annual, two-day event marks the beginning of medical school for the Miller School’s new class and is the first time the entire cohort gathers together.
The Rosenstiel Medical Science Building buzzed with excitement as 235 new medical students from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Class of 2028 gathered for M.D. orientation.
The annual, two-day event marks the beginning of medical school for the Miller School’s new class and is the first time the entire cohort gathers together. Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School, welcomed the students.
“You represent the finest students our universities and colleges can produce,” Dean Ford said. “We are confident that you will thrive and become transformative leaders who will shape the future of medicine and improve the health of humanity. Welcome to the Miller School family.”
Celebrating the Highest-Ranking Class
The Class of 2028 boasted an average undergraduate GPA of 3.83 and a 515 MCAT score. Thirty-two students in the class are in the M.D./M.P.H. program and 30 are in the M.D./M.B.A. program. Six students are pursuing M.D./Ph.D. degrees.
The class is comprised of 141 women and 94 men, with 65% from Florida and 35% from out of state. The students hail from institutions such as the University of Miami, Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Florida and the University of North Carolina.
“I’m thrilled to be here. Getting into medical school is a huge achievement,” said Julia Apshe, a Class of 2028 student. “This moment marks the beginning of the rest of my life, and I can’t wait to join the medical community. I’m proud to enter a profession that excites me every day and allows me to make a real impact in people’s lives.”
Utilizing Resources and Practicing Self-Care
Miller School leadership shared words of wisdom with the incoming class, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy balance and prioritizing mental and physical well-being during the demanding years of medical school.
“You can’t go through this journey by only studying night and day,” Dean Ford said. “Take time for yourself and make strong connections with each other. Remember, we’re here for you. Our doors are always open.”
The speakers also emphasized the vast array of resources available at the Miller School, encouraging students to take full advantage of mentorship opportunities, wellness programs and other support systems designed to help students navigate the rigorous journey ahead while fostering personal and professional growth.
“Be proud to be a part of this class and know that we made the right choice selecting you,” added Hilit Mechaber, M.D. ’95, senior associate dean for student affairs at the Miller School. “This class is full of amazing people ready to embark on a transformative experience.”
Important Introductions
Orientation also familiarized students with the NextGenMD curriculum and the roles of student-focused offices at the Miller School.
Aneesha Raj, Class of 2026 and the Miller School student government president, shared insights about her role, the purpose of the chapter and her own medical school experience.
“Be proud of everything you’ve achieved to get here,” Raj said. “You are surrounded by talented peers. Let them inspire and fuel your passions. Get excited for the journey ahead and enjoy the city you’re in. Miami is a great place to build your life as you work toward your career.”
As always, the Miller School Medical Alumni Association extended a warm welcome to the class. Maria Del Pilar Gutierrez, B.S. ’84, M.D. ’90, president of the association, reminded the students that the alumni organization is here to help them succeed. These words resonated with Samuel Cole, whose father graduated in the M.D. Class of 1995.
“Growing up the son of two physicians, I knew very early on that I wanted to be just like my parents,” Cole said. “My calling is to merge the worlds of public health and medicine to provide better care for my patients. I hope to gain a strong clinical foundation here at the Miller School, build lifelong friendships and get involved in the greater Miami community.”
The Class of 2028 will take their formal entry into the medical field at the John G. Clarkson White Coat and Freshman Pinning Ceremony on August 23. Stay tuned as we highlight members from the incoming class leading up to the event.
Tags: Dean Henri Ford, Dr. Hilit Mechaber, medical education, medical students, orientation