Rapid changes in science, technology, the economy and social environment are reshaping health care. The UF College of Medicine is responding to these changes through continuous curriculum renewal. The college is known for its programs in competency-based education, performance-based teaching, community and urban clinical training, interactive learning, and the clinical presentation model, which is
a UF-developed list of approximately 120 ways patients can present illnesses to physicians. The model helps students identify the illness when the symptom is the only clue a patient can give. In support of Medical Education, the College created the Harrell Professional Center guided by the vision of Dr. George T. The Harrell center provides a realistic healthcare environment for students to acquire the skills necessary for successful evaluation and treatment of patients. We receive preliminary applications through data downloads from the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). Applications are accessed directly over the Internet. Competitive applicants are invited to submit a secondary (formal) application directly to the University of Florida College of Medicine. Once completed, including letters of recommendation and MCAT scores, the applications are reviewed by the Medical Selection Committee Chair and selected committee members. Some applicants then receive invitations to interview with Medical Selection Committee members. The committee includes faculty from both basic science and clinical departments, private physicians in the surrounding community and fourth year medical students. At a subsequent committee meeting the interviewers serve as advocates for the applicant following which the committee provides a recommendation to the Chair. Committee decisions are sent via e-mail.