UCSD
School of
Medicine
COVID-19
The last two years have been full of uncertainty, stress, and change, but this has given UCSD SOM time to adapt and structure its medical education in a way that allows students to get all of their necessary training without compromising their safety. The current MS1s were able to have a fully in-person experience for the first 3 months, but with the current Omicron variant, we have transitioned to hybrid-style learning. Below is some information about our experiences from the last few months-- however things may change by the time you start here!
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If you have specific COVID-related questions not answered here, feel free to reach out to us.
HOW HAS CURRICULUM CHANGED DUE TO COVID-19?
Luckily, UCSD's curriculum has remained incredibly robust regardless of the pandemic. As a part of the healthcare team, we are considered essential workers, and have thus been able to continue certain in person classes. Most notably, we have been able to continue anatomy and ultrasound in person-- which is absolutely vital for learning a highly visual and tactile subject.
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Block lectures, histology labs, and certain small group activities have been moved online, however, the structure and content of the courses have not really changed.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH SECOND LOOK?
As of now, Second Look is scheduled to be in person on April 8th and 9th such that accepted applicants can enjoy the full San Diego experience. However, it is subject to change to an online format if UCSD SOM deems that is the safest option for students and staff. Stay tuned for more details!
ARE UCSD SOM STUDENTS GETTING VACCINATED?
Yes! It is now a requirement for all UCSD SOM students to be fully vaccinated, which includes having the booster.
HOW FREQUENTLY HAVE YOU BEEN GETTING TESTED?
Previously, UCSD SOM students are required to complete a daily symptom screening and recommended to test as needed. COVID tests are widely available, with multiple drive-up test centers, a large walk up test center at the Price Center, and self-administered test stations at grad housing. With the Omicron variant, however, students are now required to test weekly, even for those who are fully vaccinated.
HOW HAS COVID IMPACTED YOUR SOCIAL LIFE?
The current MS1s had a full in-person experience during the first 3 months, so we were able to participate in large-scale events with our entire MS1 class this year. We have since returned to hybrid-learning but still continue to meet safely in small-group settings and through Zoom. San Diego is beautiful all year round. There are tons of activities that can be done safely and socially distanced, including but not limited to: surfing, hiking, climbing, and snorkeling. Additionally, many of San Diego's restaurants and breweries are still open for take-out, and who doesn't love to eat delicious food while picnicking at the beach!
For more information about UCSD's COVID policies, please click the link below: