U. starts pre-med program in Jerusalem

In keeping with its promise to provide students with diverse opportunities to study abroad, the University has inaugurated a pre-med program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The year-long program will be offered for the first time next year, according to Geoffrey Gee, assistant director of International Programs. The schedule begins on Aug. 9 with a nearly two-month intensive Hebrew language Ulpan study, followed by a five-course autumn semester and a six-course spring semester. There is no language proficiency requirement on entry, but students are required to take Hebrew language courses while enrolled, Gee said. He added that while the program is currently only open to University students, it may eventually include other schools. "We are eager to see what the turnout will be," he said. "We would like to have 10 to 15 students [participate next year]." The pre-med courses, which include organic chemistry, microbiology and neurobiology, have already been approved for University students. "This is a new opportunity for many students, who in the past have not taken advantage of study abroad, because of their course load," Gee said. "This program offers many of the same courses that pre-med students take during their junior year." The program also includes courses in Israel or Jewish studies and a supervised research project in the life sciences. "This is pointed specifically at our pre-med students," said Amy Kidd, outreach coordinator for the Office of International Programs. "And obviously, [the] Hebrew [Department] saw a need for it too." Hebrew University also offers approximately 100 courses in English in various humanities and social science courses and many opportunities for students to travel and learn about the land and culture of Israel. The cost for the program is equivalent to University tuition -- with financial aid allowances -- and a study abroad fee. "The faculty and administration at the University of Pennsylvania recognized that the setting at Hebrew University with its science facilities and the Hadassah Medical School presented a unique opportunity for pre-med students, following along the tradition of the already existing nursing program," Gee said. The Office of International Programs will hold an information meeting on Dec. 5 at 4:30 p.m. in Bennett Hall.