Dear Editor,

I am writing to tell you about the extraordinary experience I had with the Harrogate/Middlesboro community and Lincoln Memorial University-Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine.

On a recent medical school interview at LMU-DCOM I had the pleasure of visiting the area. Hailing from the suburbs of Detroit and now residing in Philadelphia, I wasn’t sure what to expect as I drove my rental car towards the Cumberland gap.

I was surprised and enthralled with the majestic landscape that surrounds Lincoln Memorial University. Desiring to explore more of the area, I drove to the pinnacle and spent time at the visitor’s center.

Not only was the view at the top spectacular, but the drive up was beautiful, full of wildlife and small waterfalls from recent rainfall rushing down the mountain. I gathered a great deal of appreciation for the history of the region while viewing exploring the exhibits at the visitor’s center.

I found the community to be warm, welcoming and sincere. From the wait staff at Pizza Hut to the DCOM family, everyone took great pride in the region- I can see why! I am thoroughly impressed with DCOM’s values and service oriented approach to medicine. The staff and students truly embodied the values of compassionate patient centered care focused on fulfilling the wellness needs of the Appalachia region. Very rarely can a school combine these values while also being at the forefront of medical education, integrating the newest technologies. The community should proud to have DCOM part of its rich physical and cultural landscape. I hope to count myself as a member of Harrogate/Middlesboro community and Lincoln Memorial University-Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine later this year.

Sincerely,

Nicole Jamieson

Post Baccalaureate, Pre-Medical Student

La Salle University 2011