FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Questions Concerning Orientation

Do I really need to come to orientation?

Yes!  Orientation is required.  Do not make the mistake of not coming.  Besides, this will be one of the most memorable weeks of medical school you will experience.  You will get to know your fellow classmates, the upperclassmen, as well as your professors during orientation.  There is a great amount of information that you will be given during this week, and we guarantee that you will experience an even greater amount of fun!

What should I expect of orientation week?

On the first day of orientation, you will be split into groups of approximately 12.  Each group will be led through the rest of orientation by two Peer Mentors.  The Peer Mentors have just finished their first year of RWJMS and have a tremendous amount of knowledge to impart.  During Orientation Week, you will spend time as a class in the lecture hall as well as time in your Peer Mentor groups.  Every evening, there will be a different Night Event.  These activities are sure to be fun and entertaining.  There will also be smaller leisure activities during the day.  Expect Orientation Week to be both informative and enjoyable!

Questions Concerning Housing

Is there on-campus housing at RWJMS?

There is no on-campus housing at RWJMS, however there is a plethora of off-campus housing options minutes away from the medical school.

Where can I find more information and advice about finding housing around RWJMS?

For information about finding housing, please see our Housing and Housing Advice pages.

Questions Concerning Required Materials and Reading

Where can I find the required list of textbooks?

We recommend waiting until orientation week before purchasing textbooks. iPhones and iPod Touches must be purchased before Orientation.  You will need them during Orientation.   Your Peer Mentors will give you invaluable advice concerning textbooks during Orientation activities.  There will also be a used textbook sale during orientation week as well as a chance to buy new textbooks from the Rutgers Bookstore.

Do I need to purchase any "doctoring equipment" like a White Coat, stethoscope, otoscope, etc.?

White Coats will be provided to you at no charge.  You will be required to have certain pieces of equipment such as a stethoscope for the Patient Centered Medicine course, however we encourage you to wait until orientation to purchase these materials.  You will receive information on exactly what you need to buy and where you can buy it during orientation week and the first weeks of classes.

Is there any required reading that needs to be completed before Orientation Week?

Please see the Forms and Mailings page for required and recommended reading in the Patient Centered Medicine course.  Click Here to download the PDF of this document (Getting Ready for PCM).

Other Questions

We are always updating this page.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to Contact Us!