M.S. in Physiology
(with specialization in Complementary & Alternative Medicine) 

Mahsa R. Tehrani B.S. in Biology (minor in Psychology) George Washington University Upon graduating from GWU, I had several viable options to which numerous hours of contemplation were devoted, standing before me.  It has been my ultimate goal to enter medical school and therefore I was looking for a scientific/healthcare related master's program which would incorporate more advanced coursework, along with an in-depth focus on certain healthcare-related issues.  Through my own research, I embarked upon the new Complementary and Alternative Medicine program being implemented at Georgetown University.  The history and reputation of Georgetown, along with the significance of CAM practices in the U.S. all served as enticing factors, helping me to arrive at my decision to matriculate into the CAM program this past Fall.  The increasing use of complementary modalities brings to our attention the need for evaluation, standardization, regulation, and most importantly recognition.  Thus far, I have enjoyed an array of courses and am very excited about next semester where we delve deeper into more specific areas of CAM, such as Mind-Body Medicine, and Herbal Medicine/Nutritional Supplements.  I am looking forward to being involved in CAM-related research with the extremely supportive faculty, and hope that this recognition of Complementary and Alternative Medicine can positively influence my practice of medicine in the future.

Karen Alladin B.A. in Spanish University of Virginia Knowing how competitive the medical school application process is, I knew that I had to explore my options after graduating from UVA.  I wanted to gain more experience in the sciences and build my academic record before applying to medical schools, so I began looking into several Post-Baccalaureate and Masters programs.  I was immediately intrigued by the Masters in Physiology Program that Georgetown offers, with a track in Complementary and Alternative Medicine.  After hearing about the exciting variety of classes and learning how the Program?s faculty and staff are so devoted to helping each student reach his or her goals?in medicine and in other fields?I was excited about coming to Georgetown this fall.  I feel honored to be a part of this pioneering program at Georgetown, a school with a reputation and rich tradition that reminds me of my wonderful experiences at UVA.  This program has opened up my eyes about so many issues that face the medical field today, especially the future of its scope and practice.  I know that my studies in Complementary and Alternative Medicine will play a very positive role in my future as a doctor, as well as in shaping the course of Medicine in the years to come.

Navid Behrooz B.S. in Biology George Washington University Having graduauted from GWU with a B.S. in Biology and undertaking public health courses for an M.P.H. degree at GWU School of Public Health, I knew that I was working towards my passion of becoming a doctor.  Yet, while public health courses give more of a broad analysis of healthcare, both nationally and globally, I wanted to have a more focused conception of how I can help people.  For this reason I became highly interested in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) program at Georgetown.  Getting my Masters of Science degree in Physiology and CAM at Georgetown has been a great experience!  Not only do I get to learn about the history of medicine, but I also enjoy challenging science courses like neurophysiology, human physiology, and biostatistics.  In addition, I'm also learning about new medical modalities that are being introduced in medical school curriculums nation-wide!  Learning about dietary supplements, acupuncture, and other medical treatments that have become widely popular, as evidenced by their being covered by most insurance plans, will make me a more receptive and caring physician.  At the same time the CAM program at Georgetown has shown me that medicine is indeed a constantly transforming entity and that the trend in healthcare is towards a more integrative approach; treating the patient's ailments while also caring for the person's overall well-being.  And while the course load can be rigorous, I am surrounded by the friendliest and most caring faculty and staff that I have known.  The students in my program are outstanding as well.  We all have similar goals and truly want to see each other succeed so we study together, eat together, and even take trips together.  All this creates a warm environment that is conducive to learning and growth, and one that is unique to Georgetown.

Jessica Blydenburgh B.S. in Psychobiology SUNY Binghamton M.A. in Forensic Psychology John Jay College of Criminal Justice The integration of complementary therapies in today's conventional medical world continues to increase and evolve.  For this reason, and because it is the first and only program of it's kind, Georgetown University's MS in Physiology with a specialized Complementary and Alternative Medicine focus is alluring.  The faculty involved in this program are not only knowledgeable about their respective fields, but are extremely involved and enthusiastic about each student's success.  Students learn to think critically, dissect research publications and have the opportunity to enroll in other electives of interest.  Because of the wide array of information one is exposed to, this program is advantageous for, but not limited to, those interested in performing research in the field of CAM, those pursuing a PhD, those with the desire to become a CAM practitioner and those considering a career in public and/or international health.  In addition, individual courses are suitable for a professional that desires to expand his/her knowledge of the alternative treatment modalities available.  Although not designed to serve as a bridge to medical school primarily, the advanced coursework definitely sets a student apart from his/her peers with classes such as Mind-Body Medicine and History of Medicine, and assists in an individual's preparation for the rigorous science to come, with courses such as Biochemistry and Physiology.  All in all, this year-long commitment provides all enrolled with a fresh view of medicine and, being in the heart of our nation's capital, provides the opportunity to bond with individuals of different ages, cultural backgrounds, interests, and cities of origin.

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