There's more to the person than just his or her biology - there's the psyche and the soul. The readings embrace the idea of diversity, with works from authors such as Anton Chekhov, Emily Dickinson, and Eudora Welty. The diverse literature stresses the need for personal growth in physicians. Empathy 101 has become very popular with students. The sessions are nearly always full, says Dr. Dorsey, who estimates that two-thirds of each freshman class participate.
Many students attend multiple sessions throughout the year.
Empathy 101 has made a real impact on helping students become better doctors. Lessons in empathy will help students in the years ahead. The sessions have been so popular that medical students urged the School to continue Empathy 101 after the freshman year. The School obliged. For the past two years, empathy sessions have been offered to sophomores who read works such as Tuesdays With Morrie, a poignant and inspiring chronicle of a journalist's reconnection with his dying college professor.