The Personal, Professional, Leadership Program (PPL)

Purpose: The PPL program is designed to provide entering medical students with a support group composed of classmates and faculty. Groups meet during specific times throughout orientation and during the first and second years of medical school. Goals: To help students feel supported and cared for during the transition into medical school; To model the mutual support and collaboration that is critical to successful medical practice; To provide a safe environment where students can learn about themselves and others; To provide the opportunity to maintain a support group throughout four years of medical education; For students to develop a personal mission and vision; and For students to develop a sense of belonging to a profession and the meaning of professionalism.

Activities: Seven groups of medical students and faculty will be selected. Faculty facilitators will include one physician and one basic scientist/medical educator. Luncheon meetings and team building sessions will occur during orientation. Teams will participate in a team building exercise.   (View Class of 2011 Ropes Course Pictures), enjoy dinner at the faculty members’ homes, and share their experiences through a lifeline exercise. Throughout the year sessions will be provided on test taking, stress management, time management, and other areas relevant to medical school. The second year will also include sessions on learning styles, preparing for the clinical years, and how to prepare for residency selection.  Please contact Dr. Alice House (478) 301-4092 for more information.