Welcome to the Oncology Interest Group of Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine. We are a group of medical students interested in cancer care and the advancement of oncology. We hope this site is useful to you as current students, students networking from other medical schools, or prospective students to our own medical school.

Take a look around and contact us if you have any questions or are interested in our events!

 

Matt Zinter & Danielle Alfano

2008-2009 Student Leaders

 

The mission of the Oncology Interest Group is to provide learning & community service opportunities for pre-clinical medical students interested in cancer care. Through our various activities, we hope to make a difference in the fight against cancer as well as educate ourselves about the many facets of oncology that we will experience as future physicians. Being involved in the lives of patients facing cancer is a tremendous role - both a privilege and a responsibility. Cancer patients face a long and difficult journey and there is much that a physician can do to soften this road. Our projects, coupled with the basic & applied science pre-clinical curriculum, are an introduction to the role of the cancer-care physician.

 

Special thanks to Dean Leslie Kahl, MD; Dean Alison Whelan, MD; Dean Ed Dodson, MD; and Diane Smith in Room 100 for their support!

 

Volunteerism

The medical school has participated in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Washington University since the event's inception in 2003. In 2008, we had 44 participants, raised $5,000, were the top graduate school team, and won the coveted "most spirited team" award. Our team theme was "vegas, baby" and we sold fake weddings while singing "Chapel of Love" and adorning our newlyweds in a fake tiara with a white-plastic-tablecloth veil. Much fun was had by all. We are happy to support the American Cancer Society and their lifesaving mission of research, advocacy, education, and patient services. To register for Relay For Life 2009, visit http://www.relayforlife.org/washumo

In the past, we have also volunteered at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, where cancer patients and a family member can stay for free while undergoing treatment. After information, assistance with accommodations and transportation to treatment are the most frequently request resources from the American Cancer Society. Our local Hope Lodge is located on Lindell Blvd, several blocks from school, and meets the needs of many patients of Siteman Cancer Center.

Education

Cancer can be experienced in different ways by different people. We have welcomed cancer patients, survivors, family members, and caregivers to share their story in an effort to see the many faces of this disease.

We also learn about the cancer patient experience by watching documentaries such as crazy.sexy.cancer and learning how people cope.

Mentorship

There are many difference medical specialties that interact with cancer patients. We have hosted faculty dinner panels featuring oncologists (adult and pediatric), bone marrow transplant physicians, radiation oncologists, and surgeons that have allowed students an opportunity to learn more about these specialties. For students interested in more direct mentorship, we facilitate shadowing opportunities and help connect students to individual mentors who have volunteered their time for us.

Advocacy

The battle against cancer requires progressive health policy. We advocate for widespread mammogram coverage, increased tobacco tax, and universal access to care. Disparities in cancer treatment remain a continuing challenge for US healthcare.

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Washington University - March 1, 2008

Washington University in St. Louis

Oncology

Cancer Support

 

Contact Matt Zinter or Danielle Alfano here.