DEAR ASPIRING AND CURRENT CLEMSON PRE-MEDICAL STUDENTS,
Choosing to pursue a career in the medical field is committing to venturing down a rigorous path that takes several years to complete. The path involves exams, countless hours of studying, extracurriculars, volunteer work, shadowing, and more. There are several aspects to a person that form a good applicant. Thus, with so many tasks involved, it can be daunting to look ahead and not be fully sure if you are capable of, or ready to be, making this journey.
My decision to embark on the pre-medical journey was not an instantaneous spark, but rather a gradual accumulation of events that guided me towards an interest in the medical field. As a first generation pre-medical student, I was entirely lost on where to begin. I had several questions that no one in my life, prior to PhiDE, seemed to have the answers to. Because of this, I began to research medical organizations on campus in hopes of some guidance, and I instantly fell in love with Phi Delta Epsilon.
Throughout my freshman year at Clemson, I found it difficult to find people who were also passionate about becoming a physician. As a result, I found it incredibly difficult to balance my academics with my social life. Upon admittance and involvement in PhiDE during my fall semester of sophomore year, I felt at home. For the first time, I was surrounded by people who were going through the same struggles and efforts that I was. During my time in PhiDE, I have met the most genuine and encouraging people who offer me endless support. I have made several fun memories with the friends who helped me build a better social to academic balance. With that, I also found mentors who had already gone through everything and were beyond happy to help me out. I finally received guidance and answers to all of my previously-daunting questions. Best of all, I obtained friendships, connections, and resources that will last me a lifetime.
Founded at Cornell University in 1904 by Aaron Brown, Phi Delta Epsilon has been an international medical fraternity that is united under the mission statement of “Facta non Verba: Deeds not Words”. This belief, along with our commitment to our philanthropy, the Children’s Miracle Network, embodies what we stand for as a chapter at Clemson. Bettering the lives of those around us through acts of charity and service is a goal of PhiDE that has been pursued since our founding at Clemson in the Spring of 2018. This, along with the utilization of professional opportunities such as MCAT workshops, suture clinics, case studies, shadowing, hospital tours, and volunteering allow us to better prepare our members for a lifetime of serving others. However, PhiDE also puts an emphasis on the socialization aspect of our Greek organization. Members have ample opportunities to connect with each other during the formation of intramural teams, potlucks, formals, movie nights, dinners, and more! PhiDE allows pre-medical students to be a part of something much larger than the classroom.
The path to becoming a physician is by no means an easy one. However, in Phi Delta Epsilon, there is a community that is prepared to walk along your side and face challenges head on. We make up a group of scholars that are dual equipped with the academic knowledge and social skills to play the role of both a guide and partner throughout your medical journey. We support and encourage one another in our individual journeys down the path, and we hope that you’ll be a part of the trip with us.
If you have any questions about our involvement on campus or the recruitment process, please email phideclemson@gmail.com.
Go Tigers!
Ella Noll
Vice President of Recruitment
Phi Delta Epsilon SC Beta