Medical school is an academically demanding experience, filled with intense studying, classes, anatomy labs and clinical skills training. To support medical students on this journey, Baylor College of Medicine – Temple has integrated Learning Communities into its program, known as the BCM-T Squads. From the first day, students are assigned to a squad, each distinguished by a different color, and they remain with this squad throughout the four-year medical school journey.
BCM-T Squads provide a collaborative environment where medical students support each other and grow together. These squads are more than just study groups—–they’re a community within the school that promotes professional development, peer learning and mentorship. Squads are instrumental in creating a welcoming atmosphere that fosters belonging and reduces stress, all while enhancing the educational experience and preparing students with skills for their future careers in medicine. At full capacity, each squad will support 32 students.
The Yellow Squad
In addition to her work in geriatric medicine at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Temple, Chitra Hamilton, MD, leads the yellow squad as a Learning Community Advisor and supports students through the often challenging journey of medical school, both personally and academically. Her role includes providing emotional support, helping to create effective learning plans for board exams and offering guidance as students begin choosing their medical specialties.
Additionally, Dr. Hamilton gives lectures throughout the year on advanced communication, emphasizing empathy and human connection, as well as professionalism and wellness. “I have the privilege of welcoming students on their first day and proudly watching them walk across the stage as they begin their careers. Having Learning Community Advisors embedded within the curriculum ensures that all students receive the support they need throughout their journey.”
The success of these learning communities is in the bond of Dr. Hamilton’s yellow squad. “After our first year together, I have been able to foster meaningful relationships with all eight of my students. We have received great feedback on the importance of the squad to our students and the community environment it fosters. I have been a sounding board for them when they performed poorly on a test and needed support and guidance or when a loved one was injured or ill. They know they can come to me as someone who fully supports them and understands the medical school journey. As Learning Community Advisors, our relationship with our students is unique; we never evaluate them. Our sole responsibility is to mentor and support them, ensuring they have a trusted ally throughout their medical education.”
