I learned via Kevin, MD, of a great new BlogTalkRadio show by Ohio physician, Doctor Anonymous. BlogTalkRadio is pretty neat in that you get video of the host, audio of the interview, and a chat window on which listeners can post a running commentary and discussion of the show. I got to "meet" Sid Schwab and Dr. Val, two frequent commenters as well as those whose blogs I read.
Last night, Dr. A interviewed Mexico Med Student, Enrico, who is currently a 3rd year med student at the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) School of Medicine in Guadalajara, Mexico. (Dr. Val was supposed to be on but was suffering from a nasty respiratory infection.). Enrico spoke in detail about his current predicament following his taking of a leave of absence last semester for family and personal reasons. It's a complicated story but essentially the med school is charging him tuition for the semester on leave and, in events that transpired with a "secret committee" his student status has been revoked. This has occurred after an investment of two years and debts of about US$120,000.
It seems that the exchanges between Enrico and the UAG med school administration have grown less than cordial and most callers and bloggers suggested that Enrico swallow his pride and grovel in order to salvage the time and money he has already invested. The problem is that the door has largely been shut to anyone whom Enrico might grovel to.
The 90-minute show, archived here, focused mostly on the differences in administration of American and foreign medical schools and how student advocacy policies seem to have not quite made it to some of the Mexican and Caribbean medical schools where American students often go. Mexico Med Student has hosted Medical Grand Rounds and he is a contributing member of the medical blogosphere. In short, Enrico is part of our community.
Enrico is not necessary looking for any specific help from bloggers and certainly doesn't wish to anger the UAG administration, but I'm sure that he would appreciate a note of support.
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Thanks for posting this story and thanks for listening/chatting during the show last night. I appreciate it!
Thanks for your support last night and with this post. Although I've come by here a few times here and there, we've never communicated directly until now. It helps give hope during a very rough time that people like yourself are out there and care enough to make a statement when you could have easily just clicked on. Thank you.
Doc A: I really enjoyed the interactive podcast - I'm bound to become a regular listener. Kevin, MD, said you did a great job and I must concur. Thanks also for giving Enrico this forum to expound upon his predicament.
Enrico: Thanks are not necessary; I only wish we could do more for you and your beautiful family. I can't imagine how frustration your situation is. There are many folks out here who care about you and we wish you the best in resolving this situation.
very interesting story :)