The official student-produced guide to our school, city, and life in medical school

Written by first-year medical students for the next incoming class, the Dis-Orientation Guide is the definitive source for how to happily survive and thrive at Washington University School of Medicine.

St. Louis Arch

Welcome

Take in some words of wisdom from the Dean of the Medical School, the Dean of Admissions, and the medical student editors of the Guide.

Group Photo of the Entering Class of 2017

Why WashU

Every year, about 125 students choose Washington University School of Medicine. Read the stories of our class to see why #WeChoseWashU.

Pond outside BJCIH

The Experience

You likely have thousands of questions about what it is like to be a medical student. We have answers from the people who know best — actual medical students.

Students Dancing at Diwali

Perspectives

Delve into the unique perspectives of our diverse student body including cultural backgrounds, relationships, and religion, and see how they impact our studies.

Student Group Picture on Hiking Trip

Life

Our tips to help you make the most of your time in St. Louis. We have tips on how to stay fit, find the best places to eat, travel the world, and get around St. Louis.

St. Louis Cardinals Stadium Bleacher View

Entertainment

Whether your idea of fun is cheering on the Cardinals, dancing the night away, or catching a musical at the theatre, we have first-hand reviews of the best of St. Louis.

St. Louis Cityscape from the Arch

Housing

Moving can be scary. Here we have valuable information that can help make your transition a little bit easier, including information on our favorite apartments.  

Medical student with camera

Advice

Adjusting to medical school can be difficult. Here graduating M4s and some of our class’s most popular WUSM faculty share words of wisdom for your time in St. Louis.

Meet the Guide Editors

*Section editors are listed in their respective sections.