Promoting your personal wellness and academic success

At 51Æ·²èCOM 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 51Æ·²èCOM, 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.

Mark Bernardo

Mark Bernardo ’21

Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)

I studied biochemistry and history in college in order to gain an understanding of humanity in both the micro and macro scale. After graduating, I worked as a medical scribe in an emergency department back in my hometown of Concord, NH. In a city that was rapidly expanding and becoming more diverse, there were healthcare disparities that needed addressing. It was during this time that I witnessed providers skillfully manage patients from different backgrounds with compassion and cultural competence. From this experience, I developed a passion for minority health and decided to apply to medical school.

At 51Æ·²èCOM, I developed the clinical skills necessary to evaluate and treat the patient as a whole. I participated in organizations like White Coats 4 Black Lives, Student National Medical Association and Culinary Medicine Club, which helped me gain a deeper understanding of how health is affected by a multitude of factors and how certain populations are impacted more than others. Now that I am on my clinical rotations, I can confidently say that I am prepared to care for a broad spectrum of patients. I can use the privilege of becoming a physician to make system-wide changes and break down barriers to better healthcare.

At 51Æ·²èCOM, I developed the clinical skills necessary to evaluate and treat the patient as a whole...Now that I am on my clinical rotations, I can confidently say that I am prepared to care for a broad spectrum of patients.

Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)

As a 51Æ·²èCOM 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)