A new beginning for every cardinal

Today, 175 new medical students will join the UofL School of Medicine on their journey to becoming physicians. For Allie Crulo-Rood, the week marks a new beginning of her own. 

This year is Crulo-Rood’s first leading the planning and coordination of the School of Medicine’s Orientation Week, creating the experience that will introduce our new M1s to the people, resources and community that will support them throughout medical school. 

“Orientation Week isn’t intended for students to memorize everything put in front of them or to have the answers to all of their questions,” Crulo-Rood shared. “It’s about helping them become familiar with the people and resources they’ll turn to during medical school.” 

That philosophy guides every aspect of the week. While students are introduced to academic expectations and campus resources, the schedule is intentionally designed to emphasize wellness, mentorship and community before classes begin. Students will meet with faculty, staff and their Advisory Deans, connect with upperclassmen who share firsthand experiences and learn about the counseling services, academic support, disability services and wellness programming available throughout their education.  

“The whole week is focused on wellness and connectedness,” said Crulo-Rood. “Students are entering one of the most demanding and transformative stages of their education, so we want them to know from day one that they have the resources, opportunities and encouragement to thrive academically, professionally and personally.” 

For Crulo-Rood, taking the lead on Orientation Week has reinforced how intentionally every event is planned. Each experience is designed to help students begin forming relationships that will carry them through the next four years, including traditions like a Night on the Belle of Louisville, Trivia Night and the annual College Cup. 

“The relationships students build with classmates, faculty, mentors and staff create a support system that helps them navigate challenges, celebrate success and remember they never have to face medical school alone,” she said. 

Those connections often become one of the clearest measures of the week’s success. 

“We usually begin the week with a lecture hall full of nervous, quiet students who aren’t sure what to expect,” said Crulo-Rood. “By the end of the week, they’re asking thoughtful questions, engaging with faculty and staff and beginning to build those meaningful relationships with one another.” 

Orientation Week does more than just prepare students for academic success; it encourages them to establish routines, prioritize wellness and develop habits that will support them during medical school. Just as importantly, it reminds them that asking for help is a strength and that they are joining a community invested in their success. 

As she prepares to welcome her first class as Orientation Week coordinator, Crulo-Rood hopes students leave feeling prepared, supported and excited to embark on the challenges and opportunities the next four years will bring.  

For the class of 2030, Orientation Week is the new beginning of a journey toward becoming physicians. For Crulo-Rood, it’s the opportunity to help shape that journey from the very first moment they step on campus.