CDU Welcomes Second Cohort of MD Students
CDU has welcomed its second cohort of 60 students in the University’s historic Medical Degree (MD) Program. Their first week kicked off with a range of activities and sessions designed to help the new students acclimate to campus as they embark on their medical education.
The students were able to introduce themselves to their classmates, fostering a sense of community from the very beginning. The week included informative sessions on the history and mission of CDU, a curriculum review, and a panel discussion with course directors, offering valuable insights into the MD program’s structure and goals.
Additionally, the students took headshot photos, enjoyed a lunch with department chairs, and heard from medical student leadership from the inaugural cohort, who discussed various clubs and interest groups available to the new students.
The week’s events also included a student health and wellness panel and a financial aid workshop, ensuring the new cohort had comprehensive support as they began their medical education journey
The exciting first week concluded with the cohort’s White Coat Ceremony, which symbolizes the start of their medical education and their entrance into the medical profession.
The celebratory event featured remarks from Dr. David M. Carlisle, CDU President and CEO, and representatives from CDU administration and College of Medicine faculty.
Los Angeles County’s first Deputy Mayor of Homelessness and Community Health, Dr. Etsemaye Agonafer served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker.
Dr. Agonafer is a 2014 graduate of the Master of Public Health and Medical Degree from the UCLA/Charles R. Drew University PRIME-LA dual-degree program.
CDU’s MD program represents the 157th medical degree program in the United States and stands as one of only four MD programs offered at a historically Black medical school.