Promoting your personal wellness and academic success

At UNE COM we recognize that you are as unique as fingerprints, or, in medical terms, those cutaneous ridges on the bulbs of the distal phalanx of our fingers. The osteopathic principles teach us that everything is interconnected, and, in the same vein, we acknowledge that you need continuous support to grow academically, professionally, and personally. By adhering to these principles, we promote your personal wellness and academic success as you pursue your osteopathic medical degree and your passion for practicing medicine.

If you are considering applying to UNE COM, or researching how the program aligns with your present or future goals, visit our Admissions page. There you will gain insight into everything from touring campus, to course requirements, and financial aide information. For an in-depth understanding of our academic programs, the Academic Curriculum details what you can expect from years 1-4 of your medical education.

Shama Patel

Shama Patel ’22

Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)

I often think about the first time I considered a career in medicine — a dream influenced by trips to my family’s village in India. I reminisce about the beauty I saw there, beyond the scenic places and the historical monuments, in the people. I discovered that most of my family members had not seen a doctor in years due to the lack of affordability. The prevalence of such obstacles to quality health care disturbed me. The ultimate difference between them and myself was that I live in a country which has safety-nets and medical systems in place to ensure accessible care. My grandmother had a heart attack in India — they were unable to treat her at the village hospital due to the lack of equipment. Though I was extremely saddened by the loss, I diligently worked towards a medical degree to create the type of change that is needed in developing areas. There was a stark difference between my lifestyle and my extended family’s. I recognize that as a future doctor, I will hold the reins to improving the delivery of health care.

Fast forward to 2019 and I am a med student at UNE COM. One thing I really admire about UNE COM is that they really emphasize doctor-patient communication in education. They teach you how to best phrase questions, bring up potentially awkward topics with your patient, and to do physical exams in a way that makes your patient feel as comfortable as they can be. Until the day I hang up my white coat, I am confident that my future career will provide me a lifetime of fulfillment, challenge, charity, and growth.

Until the day I hang up my white coat, I am confident that my future career will provide me a lifetime of fulfillment, challenge, charity, and growth.

Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)

As a UNE COM student, you have opportunities both in and out of the classroom. You can choose to get involved in our community to enrich your experiences in the classroom with practical applications. Browse through the list of more than 40 clubs and organizations that promote healthy lifestyles, professional growth, and ever-lasting friendships.

To aid in successfully maintaining school/life balance, you have access to Student Support Services on the Biddeford campus. Ranging from tutoring to health appointments, and counseling, we recognize that there are many factors that lead to your success and have structured our services based on this belief.

We pride ourselves on being student-centered, student-friendly, and family-friendly. As you embark on this new chapter in your life, we welcome you into our family, so that when you are here you are home.

COM STUDENT HANDBOOK SUPPLEMENT (PDF)