Another day, another MD program that has caught my eye. In Columbia’s email delivering its secondary application, they mentioned their new Columbia-Bassett program, and after a few hours of research, I’ve decided to apply!
Unlike Cleveland Clinic, with it’s 5-year program and its focus on clinical research, Columbia-Bassett is a 4-year MD program that emphasizes longitudinal clinical experience, a strong and compassionate relationship between physicians and patients, and the importance of rural health care. The first 18 months of medical school take place at Columbia’s NYC campus, and from there students move to Cooperstown, in Upstate New York, to complete their clerkships at Bassett Healthcare. It seems like students get the best of both worlds: a glimpse into healthcare in the biggest of metropolitan areas, and an extensive view of rural medicine. Also, I’m drawn to the school’s emphasis on relationships, or as they put it, “humanistic patient care.” I love it! Just like Cleveland, their program includes a financial package of yearly $30,000 grants to students to alleviate debt following graduation.
To apply, you answer one additional question on the Columbia secondary specific to C-B. Should I be interviewed, I will interview at both the Cooperstown and NYC campuses. And should C-B not wish to interview me, my application will be considered by Columbia for their traditional MD program.
