Class of 2027

Dear Class of 2027, 

I am absolutely thrilled to welcome you as our newest colleagues here at Baylor College of Medicine. I arrived seven years ago and I know you will find it to be as warm and welcoming of a place as I have. 

I am continually impressed by the students, residents, faculty and staff. Even driving into the Texas Medical Center is awe-inspiring. We are surrounded by those who are dedicating their lives to improving healthcare in Houston and throughout the world. Never has this dedication been more evident than during the past few years. Hurricanes, COVID, honest discussions regarding healthcare disparities among different populations – each of these events have highlighted the important role healthcare providers play in every community. 

While you will be receiving a top-notch education here, it is essential to realize you will get out of it only what you put into it. Take full advantage of all the accomplished mentors and vast resources available to help and guide you each step of the way. 

Congratulations and I look forward to welcoming you in person! 

Jennifer G. Christner, M.D. 
Senior Dean 
Schools of Medicine and Health Professions 

Dear Class of 2027,

Congratulations on your acceptance to Baylor College of Medicine! We're PUMPED to have you join the BCM family. One of the best parts of BCM (in our humble opinion) is the Peer Resource Network, a small group program that every MS1-MS4 is a member of. PRN was formed by students to help ease the transition into medical school and to support you throughout your tenure as a BCM student. 

Each of you will be in a group of 7-8 first-year students. The groups participate in orientation activities, nighttime socials, lunches, and study breaks coordinated by student advisors throughout the year. Two second-year students, two third-year students and two fourth-year students are assigned to each group as well, so that you have an experienced student mentor and support system every step of the way through your training--one who has been where you are and can help guide you through whatever may come up! 

You will hear more from your advisors this summer, but please reach out to us coordinators if anything comes up in the meantime (or if you'd just like to chat!). Also be sure to find the Class of 2027 Facebook page and GroupMe for other important information. You will be hearing more from your PRN group leaders in mid-June so that you can get all your questions answered! We look forward to meeting you on Friday, July 22! 

David McDonald, he/him/his
MS4 Lead Coordinator
Baylor College of Medicine Class of 2025
David.McDonald@bcm.edu | (281) 840-0249
 
Varsha Varghese, she/her/hers
MS3 Coordinator
Baylor College of Medicine Class of 2025
Varsha.Varghese@bcm.edu | (832) 618-2701
 
Kenny Dang, he/him/his
MS2 Coordinator
Baylor College of Medicine Class of 2026
Kenneth.Dang@bcm.edu | (713) 382-7783
 

Our orientation program and retreat are designed to help you transition to medical school and prepare you for a successful first year. Attendance is mandatory for all students. Visit Orientation and Retreat for the complete schedule and additional information.

Do I have to attend orientation?
Yes. Attendance is MANDATORY. The information you are given at orientation is essential for a successful start in medical school. 

How do I get to orientation the first morning (Friday, July 21)? 
We suggest that you park (if driving) in Garage #4 or #6. Your parking cost will be $12 - $15. Baylor does not validate parking. If possible, you may want to be dropped off at Baylor or car pool should you know any of your classmates. All students must enter Baylor through the Alkek building entrance. 

How should I dress for the “at Baylor” part of orientation? 
Casual (but not too casual) dress is suggested. Digital images are taken for ID badges, etc., so you should look presentable. You may also meet various faculty and administrators at this time. 

Do I have to bring anything for the “at Baylor” part of orientation? 
No. We will provide all that you will need. We recommend that you bring a backpack/tote bag for the materials you receive during orientation. 

Can I get my email account prior to my enrollment at Baylor?
Can I access intranet resources prior to my enrollment at Baylor?
You will be receiving your email account in late June, which will enable you to complete very important compliance requirements, as well as give you access to resources, which are login/password protected. 

Can I join the Wellness Center prior to my enrollment at Baylor? 
Can I get my student discounted METRO Q Card prior to my enrollment at Baylor? 
No. You must be “officially” enrolled as a Baylor student.

How do I get proof of my enrollment at Baylor?
That can be done after classes start. Stop by the Office of the Registrar and complete the “How May I Help?” form. The certification will be mailed within 24/48 hours.

How do I register for classes? 
Registration is automatic. All students take the same Foundational Science curriculum.

How can I make sure you have my final college transcript? 
Your permanent record is maintained by the Office of the Registrar - DeBakey Building, M-210, so you can check with the records room.

How do I establish Texas residency (for tuition purposes)?  
Please visit the Office of the Registrar’s website for information on converting to a Texas state resident.

What area close to the Texas Medical Center do most students live in?

The Medical Center, Museum District, and Montrose are nearby neighborhoods. You can use the following resources as a starting point as you search:  

• Apartment Directions 
• KW Metropolitan, Keller William Realty 
• Frances A. Smith - Access Houston Real Estate 
• Houston Apartment Insiders 
• Nino Properties 

Note – these resources are not affiliated with or endorsed by BCM. 

Does Baylor own/manage a housing facility?
No

What does Baylor provide related to computer equipment?

We include in every first-year student’s financial aid allocation $2,000, which can be used to purchase a new laptop. If you already own a laptop or can purchase one for less than $2,000, you should decline all or part of your financial aid allocation, so you only borrow what you need. Be aware that half your financial aid award is available in August and half in January. 

What are the Baylor personal computer requirements and specifications?

The classes that you take at BCM are paperless so you must have a computer to access class materials including course notes, presentations, and streaming videos. In addition, some exams at BCM are administered over wireless networks at the College. Many students use both a laptop and a tablet – the laptop for note taking and the tablet for studying on the go. 

We support both Apple and Windows-based devices. Please do not purchase a Chrome Netbook because it will NOT work for your wireless exams. For further guidance on appropriate computers, refer to the Minimum Computer Requirements.

What is needed if I am a part of a military program?

If you are in a military program, provide to Student Account Services (713-798-4322) a copy of your contract, military orders, etc., so they may bill the government for your tuition/fees.