First Year

WWAMI provides a unique opportunity in medical education. As a first-year Idaho WWAMI medical student, you will be in a class of only 45 students at the combined campuses of the University of Idaho and Washington State University. Students become connected to the Seattle community during their first year through the college system and resources through the Medical Students Association (MSA) and class Senator. The MSA operates MEDLINKS online which includes online practice tests and student suggestions to better prepare for first-year courses. The college system assigns each student with one of five colleges.

The program focuses on personalizing medical education for students and providing a deeper understanding of fundamental clinical skills and professionalism. Students may enroll in the Rural/Underserved Opportunities Program (R/UOP) for a four-week clinical elective with a primary care physician before their second year.

Preceptorships

Preceptorships with local physicians are available during the first year. Students may choose from a wide variety of specialties for these clinical experiences such as family practice, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, and pediatrics. Students get the opportunity to apply skills learned in the Introduction to Clinical Medicine course such as patient interview techniques and basic screening physical examination skills.