NYMC Welcomes SOM Class of 2020

‌Two hundred and thirteen new students descended on the campus to officially become the NYMC School of Medicine Class of 2020. A week of activities during “Transition to Medical School” prepared the new cohort as they launched their medical education. They learned about professionalism, the virtues of being a physician, academic policies and the student honor code. There were social events, including an evening cruise around Manhattan, to get acquainted and more routine activities like getting health clearances, being fitted for white coats and buying stethoscopes to help prepare them for the next four years of their lives. One of the highlights of the week was the introduction to gross anatomy class—a defining experience of medical school—to meet their lab partners, experience  the first palpation of a cadaver, and learn anatomy lab protocol and etiquette.  

Selected from a pool of 12,738 applicants, the students come with impressive credentials, fitting for a group of responsible and caring future physicians.  The new class of medical students hails from 27 states and 104 undergraduate institutions. Fifty-eight percent of the class is female, the largest percentage since 2000, when women outnumbered men for the first time in the history of the College. New York State is home to 31 percent of the class and the average age is 24.

Anthony M. Sozzo, M.A., M.S.Ed., associate dean for student affairs and director of student activities and student financial planning, got to know the new students during the week. “My first impression of the Class of 2020 was how polite and friendly they are; even though I am sure they were nervous at first. I am impressed by their intellect, interests and experience, yet they seem to be very humble. They are very appreciative to be here,” said Mr. Sozzo. “They are the kind of people you would be proud to say are your family, friend or your doctor.”

View the Transition to Medical School photo gallery here.