Annual Report - Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences

university LifeCAMPUS LIFEIn many ways, USU is very much a traditional university, with student clubs and organizations, athletic teamsand social activities. However, there is also a very special atmosphere at the university. At USU, there is aninimitable and pervasive spirit of teamwork not only among students, but also among faculty and staff. It isthis sense of a shared purpose, camaraderie and commitment to service that distinguishes the university fromother institutions.USU students can take part in a number of athletic activities,including soccer, rugby and hockey. Students actively participatein a variety of interest groups, many affiliated with nationalsponsoring organizations, which provide opportunities to learnabout careers and foster interest in medical specialties suchas aerospace medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, familymedicine and undersea medicine.Student members of the Gamma Chapter of Alpha Omega Alpha—the nationalhonor medical society, and one of the many student groups at USU—tutor and assistother students as they adjust to the rigors of medical school. The Student SpousesClub promotes a sense of community and support. The club holds many eventsthroughout the year and activities for each class. Dining In and Dining Out areannual traditional military social events for USU students, families and associates.DEBT-FREE EDUCATIONMany attending other medical and graduateprograms incur significant debt due to student loans.USU is unique in that students pay no tuition or fees.In fact, most students receive salaries or stipends.Medical students enter the university as commissionedofficers in one of the four uniformed services: Army,Navy, Air Force or Public Health Service. No priorservice is required. Students receive the full salaryand benefits of a uniformed officer throughout theirfour years at the university in exchange for aseven-year active duty service commitment.Students in the Graduate School of Nursing areall active-duty uniformed nurses or nurses in federalcivilian service. They continue to receive their regularsalaries while at USU.Those in the Graduate School are a mix of civiliansand uniformed officers. Civilian students may receivestipends, and uniformed graduate students continueto receive their regular active-duty pay and benefitswhile attending the university.USU StaffUSU’s faculty and staff are comprised ofofficers and enlisted personnel, as well ascivilians. This dedicated cadre of individualsis united by their commitment to service.16