Dr. Kira Zwygart lecturing to the MCOM class of 2024.

Wearing facemasks and physical distancing are regular facets of the new world during the COVID-19.  Taking every precaution possible, the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine became one of the first University of South Florida programs to open its doors to new students during the pandemic as it welcomed the class of 2024.

In every possible way, the class of 2024, with 189 students, is both the largest and most competitive class in MCOM’s history, boasting both the highest median average grade point average of 3.8 and highest median MCAT score of 516.  During his address to the students, Charles Lockwood, MD, MHCM, USF Health senior vice president and MCOM dean, reminded the students they are entering one of the most noble of professions during one of the most unsettling times in recent history.

Social distancing and face masks are the norm for the foreseeable future at MCOM and University of South Florida class rooms.

“You are beginning your medical training during one of the most tumultuous times for health care the planet has seen in 100 years,” Dr. Lockwood said. “Despite the uncertainty all around us, MCOM is driving forward and we are thrilled you have chosen to spend your medical school years with us.”

MCOM and USF Health pride themselves on the diversity in their students, staff and faculty. The students who choose MCOM come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. SELECT student Carrie Wang, a former New York high school history teacher, chose to pursue a career as a doctor in hopes of using her experiences as a teacher to guide her research interests.

“Some of the other schools I interviewed with didn’t really offer the opportunity to conduct history research along with medical research,” said Wang. “The SELECT program was very open to the idea as long as I could connect value-based patient-centered care back to it.  That was exciting to me and that was one of the main reasons I chose MCOM.”

Carrie Wang, former New York high school history teacher turned medical student.

The class of 2024 will receive their first white coats during their white coat ceremony in December.

Fun facts about the Class of 2024:

• 189 students. 131 Core/58 SELECT
• More than 5,300 applicants
• 51% male, 49% female
• 50% attended undergraduate school in Florida, 50% out of state.
• 16% underrepresented minority
• 12% disadvantaged