Expert: Janet Carter - 4/22/2007

Question
Hi, I was reading some things on the Student Doctor Network Forums and a lot of people mention that their favorite thing about medical school is coming and going as they please, plus no attendance.

For example, on the topic "What do you like about medical school?" some people wrote:

"-No boss
-Set my own schedule
....etc.... "

"No attendance, so I can sleep as long as I want."

Is that true?  Or are they kidding?  What are the rules of attendance at a medical school?  Thnx.

Answer
Hi...I went to optometry school, not medical school, so not sure I can answer the question...besides the rules might vary from school to school.  Where I went you could skip class if you wanted to (but few did) but if you skipped clinics you would be out on your butt really quickly.  Since you would start being in clinic fairly early in the process I really don't think its fair to say you could "set your own schedule."