YOUR ADVICE REGARDING THE COMP

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Author: Rita Dhaliwal

Started: March 27, 2008, 11:45:31 am

Target: Ross University School of Medicine

Category: Education

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100,000

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To whom it may concern,

I am writing in regards to the March 2008 Comprehensive Exam. I believe that the students who did not pass deserve another chance. I understand the Ross policy of having only three tries to pass, but our class did not have a 'fair' three tries. Our first time taking the comp was during a time of complete turmoil. A hurricane was approaching and the very thought of it hitting Dominica directly can cause a lot of stress on any person, especially if they've never experienced a hurricane. Even those that have seen hurricanes before, being on an island versus a US state is drastically different. Will the island be able to withstand hurricane winds? Do we have adequate services incase something does go wrong? No one knew what was to come and the very thought of that does not leave room to think about a test.

On top of feelings of worry, there was the fact that we were given the decision to take the comp in Dominica or Miami a little too late. By the time most students found out that they could take it at a later date, the only flights out were chartered flights. Not every student has that money. Even if students left after the hurricane, the stress of having to leave abruptly, returning home and getting back to studying can take some time for most students. We are not machines where we can emotionally turn off everything around us and focus on studying. Most students had to deal with moving as well to Miami. Students who stayed in Dominica had to endure days of no electricity or water in their homes. Yes, the campus did have electricity, but your home is your sanctuary and where you relax, if things at home aren't in order, then chances are you yourself isn't in order.

Every student does perform differently, but that does not mean they are inadequate to be doctors. Why could some pass the 2nd or 3rd try? There are probably numerous reasons for every student, but the fact of the matter is that the first time was not a legitimate try. Semesters after us have almost a month now to prepare for their first try. We had about a week if we stayed in Dominica and about two weeks if we took it in Miami. Most of this study time was taken up by the chaos of the hurricane and the recovery thereafter.

Ross University has always been about giving opportunities, looking outside the box and looking at qualities and situations beyond what others normally dismiss. I hope you take my email into consideration in allowing students to have a 'fair' three tries. I pray that you consider our class as an exception to the rule because I know we will be losing students that have great potential. If these students were able to make it to the comp, that in itself already shows enough character to represent Ross in the future as a physician.

Thank you for your time,
Sincerely,