Authored by Leland Jaffe DPM, Associate Dean and Professor – Published on February 5th, 2024.
Embarking on the path to becoming a podiatric physician is a journey that demands dedication, resilience, and a passion for learning. Podiatric medical school is a rigorous and challenging endeavor that shapes individuals into skilled healthcare professionals capable of addressing a wide array of foot and ankle conditions. Podiatric physicians in 2024 are trained to be experts in all conditions related to the foot and ankle. In this blog post, we will explore the demanding nature of podiatric medical school and shed light on the pathway to becoming a podiatric physician.
ADVICE FROM CURRENT AND FORMER PODIATRIC MEDICAL STUDENTS
Dr. Reema Naman (Fellow- Beaumont Podiatry) – @reema.naman (Instagram)
Future podiatric students should prepare to take a lot more credits per semester than they are probably used to in college. The volume of material to learn and memorize is much more than in undergraduate school/college courses. For me, it was personally difficult to go from working a couple of different jobs and being in different environments throughout the week to becoming a full-time student and studying constantly. It became redundant and boring so I had to find ways to keep myself engaged! Time management is also very important. Students can contact me via Instagram with any questions- @reema.naman
Philip Kulpinski – Scholl College Class of 2024 – @philkulpinski (Instagram)
One statement that stuck with me was “It will get easier next year”. The reality I discovered was this couldn’t be further from the truth. Podiatric medical school is difficult but manageable. As I reflect months from graduation on my experience I understand that things would never get easier, but you will become stronger. I truly believe to be successful one must have discipline, organization, adaptability, and most importantly passion. I observed personal success when I implemented consistent time for study throughout each week. It is important to understand that there will be setbacks and difficult times ahead on this incredible journey. Whether it’s struggling to juggle a demanding course load or failing an exam. To be successful is to persevere. Lastly, discover your passion, and find what is the thing that will fuel your success. For many of us, it is what brought you to become a doctor.
Kyler Hattendorf – Scholl College Class of 2026 – @kylerhattendorf (Instagram)
Podiatry school is difficult but manageable! Stick to a schedule that works for you and you’ll be just fine!
Jeneen Elegha – Temple School of Podiatric Medicine Class of 2024 – @jeneenelagha (Instagram)
It should be difficult, as we are training to fix people’s ailments. But a good support group and a strong work ethic will get you through. Podiatry school is as fun as you make it – enjoy the ride!
Madeline Helser – Scholl College Class of 2026 – @madelinehelser (Instagram)
It’s your full-time (and then some) job, not your entire life! Balance is completely possible!
Braden Brundage – Scholl Class of 2025 – @bradenbrundage (Instagram)
Each year is challenging in its own way. But, I found that earning A’s in classes and having a good balance between school and home life was definitely attainable. I thought it was impossible before beginning school, and if it were possible then I wouldn’t be the student gifted enough to pull it off. But I was grateful to find that success came in the classroom and my social and family relationships didn’t suffer!
Alyssa Watt – Scholl Class of 2027 – @alyssawatt_ (Instagram)
It’s not about difficulty, it’s about how much time and hard work you are willing to put in!
Khushiben Patel – Scholl Class of 2027 – LinkedIn
Embarking on the transformative journey of podiatric medical school demands significant sacrifices. Yet, the positive impact and ultimate rewards make it an unequivocally worthwhile commitment, especially when the motivation is to better the lives of other people and contribute to the well-being of our communities. Our day-to-day schedule is intensive but it also teaches us to be disciplined and to better manage our time. Pursuing podiatric medical school is a substantial commitment, as we find ourselves deeply immersed in our studies, consistently busy, and dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. The advice that I have for aspiring podiatric medical students is to stay focused and allow yourself to be grateful for being given the opportunity and the privilege to be able to treat someone. Always remember that you were given this opportunity for a reason. Keep pushing yourself every single day and remember that it will be worthwhile in the end.
Anonymous 4th year podiatry student
Podiatry school has proven to be an intellectually rigorous and challenging pursuit. As a student in this specialized field, I find myself immersed in a demanding curriculum that delves deep into the intricacies of foot and ankle health. The coursework is comprehensive, covering anatomy, biomechanics, pathology, and surgical techniques, which requires attention to detail and a strong commitment to mastering complex concepts. The hands-on clinical experiences and practical applications further add to the difficult road, but at the same time is a very rewarding experience. Long hours of study, countless examinations, and the constant pursuit of excellence characterize the demanding nature of podiatry school. Despite the challenges, the journey is incredibly rewarding, as it equips me with the expertise needed to make a meaningful impact on the well-being of others through the specialized care of the lower extremities. –
The Rigorous Academic Curriculum:
The podiatric medical school curriculum is comprehensive and demanding, covering a broad range of medical sciences with a specialized focus on the lower extremities. The first two years are primarily dedicated to the basic biomedical sciences including anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, among others. The volume and complexity of the coursework require a disciplined approach to study, making time management an important skill for success. In my experience the students who find the most success are the ones who work collaboratively with their peers and faculty, attend classes regularly, and know when to ask for assistance. During these didactic years, it’s recommended to become active in extracurricular activities such as leadership roles, research experience, and community service.
The First Year of Podiatry School
The first year of podiatry school is a challenging period that demands a significant adjustment for students entering this specialized field of healthcare. Acclimating to the rigors of podiatry school involves navigating a diverse curriculum that spans anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and clinical skills. Students must quickly adapt to the increased workload, balancing lectures, workshops, and clinical experiences. Developing effective study habits and time management skills becomes crucial to excel in coursework and clinical rotations.
Establishing a support network among peers and faculty becomes essential for navigating the initial challenges of podiatry school, providing a foundation for both academic success and the development of the clinical expertise required in this specialized field of medicine.
Transitioning From Basic Sciences to Clinical Sciences
The transition from basic sciences to clinical sciences in medical programs is a challenge for some that marks a pivotal juncture in a med student’s journey toward becoming a physician. Initially, students focus on foundational subjects like anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, delving into the intricacies of the human body at a molecular and systemic level. However, the shift to clinical sciences introduces a paradigm shift, necessitating the application of theoretical knowledge to real-life patient scenarios. The challenge lies not only in mastering a new set of skills such as history-taking, physical examination, and diagnostic reasoning but also in navigating the complex and dynamic nature of patient interactions.
A Change In Your Learning Process
Clinical work demands a shift in mindset from memorization to clinical reasoning, requiring students to synthesize information, make informed decisions, and communicate effectively with patients and other members of the medical field. Adaptation to the fast-paced, emotionally charged environment of clinical settings can be overwhelming, making this phase a critical and demanding aspect of medical education. Success in this transition not only signifies academic achievement but also lays the foundation for the development of well-rounded, competent physicians.
Clinical Training and Hands-On Experience:
Podiatric medical education is not confined to textbooks and lectures. Students undergo extensive clinical and surgical training usually beginning in their 3rd year, gaining hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions. This practical component adds an extra layer of complexity to the learning process, as students must apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios under the guidance of experienced practitioners, often doing many new skills for the first time.
The 3rd and 4th Years of Podiatry School
During these years (third year and fourth year), the students gain valuable clinical experience by rotating through elective and core rotations. The elective rotations span across the United States from coast to coast, and students can choose where they’d prefer to rotate. Most podiatric medical colleges also have core rotations in both podiatric and non-
The Importance of Time Management in Podiatric Medical School
Furthermore, developing strong time management skills in podiatry school prepares students for the demanding schedules they will face in their future careers as podiatrists. Patients rely on podiatrists to provide timely and effective care, and efficient time management during education helps instill the discipline needed for effective patient management in the professional realm. In the ever-evolving field of podiatry, where staying current with research and advancements is essential, effective time management ensures that students can keep abreast of the latest developments while also excelling in their academic pursuits.
Board Examinations and Licensing Requirements:
Completing podiatric medical school is only the first step of the challenge. Graduates must pass parts I, II, and III of the APMLE (American Podiatric Medical Licensing Examination) board exams to obtain their licenses and practice as podiatric physicians. The preparation for these summative high-stakes exams requires much time, testing the depth of the knowledge acquired throughout the years of education. The students will take their part I exam following the completion of their 2nd academic year, and the part II exam is taken during the 4th year.
The difficulty of the APMLE can vary for individuals, and it often depends on factors such as the candidate’s academic background, clinical experience, and study habits. Here’s a brief overview of each part:
- Part I: This part assesses the candidate’s basic science knowledge in areas such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. Many students find this part challenging due to the breadth and depth of the material covered.
- Part II: This written exam evaluates clinical knowledge, including diagnosis, treatment planning, and podiatric medical and surgical knowledge. It covers a wide range of topics, and the difficulty can be influenced by the candidate’s understanding of clinical scenarios and their ability to apply knowledge to patient care.
- Part III: Part II is designed to determine whether a candidate’s knowledge and clinical skills are adequate for safe, unsupervised practice. The Part III examination samples the candidate’s clinical skills in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating patients. Examples of the application of knowledge may be measured through photographs, radiographs, and case presentations. This exam is taken at the end of podiatric medical school or in the first year of residency training.
Success in the APMLE requires thorough preparation, including reviewing textbooks, practicing clinical scenarios, and possibly participating in review courses. Many podiatry students and graduates dedicate focused study time to adequately prepare for each part of the exam. While the APMLE is considered challenging, it is designed to ensure that podiatrists meet the standards necessary to provide safe and competent care to patients.
Balancing Personal and Academic Life
Maintaining a work-life balance in podiatry school is essential for the overall well-being of students as they navigate the demanding academic and clinical responsibilities inherent in their training. Juggling rigorous coursework, clinical rotations, and study commitments can be overwhelming, making it crucial for students to prioritize self-care and allocate time for personal pursuits. Establishing a structured schedule, setting realistic goals, and practicing effective time management are pivotal in preventing burnout.
Finding moments for relaxation, hobbies, and social interactions is equally important to recharge both mentally and emotionally. Developing a support network among peers and seeking guidance from mentors can provide valuable insights and assistance in managing the challenges of podiatry school. Striking a balance between academic pursuits and personal life not only enhances overall well-being but also contributes to sustained success in the rigorous journey toward becoming a podiatrist.
Podiatric Medical School – Conclusion:
Podiatric medical school is undeniably a challenging path, demanding hard work, dedication, and resilience from its students. Those who navigate through the rigorous academic curriculum, extensive clinical training, and demanding licensing requirements emerge as skilled podiatric physicians and surgeons capable of making a positive impact on the lives of their patients. The journey may be tough, but it is a testament to the commitment of those who choose this noble profession, driven by a passion for healing and a desire to improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing foot and ankle conditions.
Comment below on other tips and pearls you’d provide for current and future podiatric medical students to help them find success!
