Dean’s Chat host, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen, is joined by Dr. Andrew Cohen, Residency Director of the Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency at Central Michigan University. This episode includes interesting discussions on what makes a great student during a clerkship month, and what they look for in residents. Tune in for a discussion on mentors from the Civic/Kern Hospital days, including Dr. Earl Kaplan, Dr. Irv Kanat, Dr. William Todd, Dr. Guy Pupp, Dr. Stuart Bass, Dr. Robert Weinstock, Dr. Gary Kapla, and other leaders that shaped our profession. Dr. Cohen and Dr. Jensen were residents together at Kern Hospital 30 years ago.
In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen welcomes Dr. Andrew Cohen to discuss all things podiatric medicine. Dr. Cohen, hailing from Saginaw, Michigan, shares his journey from Boston University to the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and his experience in podiatric surgical training at Kern Hospital. He currently serves as the director of the podiatric medicine and surgical residency program at Central Michigan University. Tune in to learn more about Dr. Cohen’s career and his unique residency program in Saginaw.
Dr. Cohen and Dr. Jensen discuss the definition of success and highlight the significance of finding fulfillment and satisfaction in one’s work. They suggest that success is not solely measured by external factors such as wealth or status, but rather by the level of enjoyment and fulfillment derived from one’s work. Additionally, they mention having someone to share their success with, implying the importance of interpersonal relationships and support systems in achieving success. This perspective on success aligns with the idea that true happiness and fulfillment come from pursuing one’s passions and finding meaning in their work. They encourage students to prioritize their interests and cultivate strong relationships and connections.
Dr. Cohen suggests that the profession needs to make a better effort to expose potential students to podiatry at an earlier stage, even before college or postgraduate studies. He believes that waiting until college or postgraduate studies is too late. Dr. Cohen points out that many college students may not even know how to get to medical school or podiatry school, what classes they need to take, or what is important for their future careers in podiatry.
Dr. Cohen emphasizes that it is not solely the responsibility of organizations like AACPM or APMA to address this issue. He believes that every podiatrist has a responsibility to be an ambassador for the profession and actively engage with students in high school and the early stages of college. He suggests that podiatrists should educate students about the path to medical or podiatry school, the importance of certain classes, and the opportunities available in the field. Dr. Cohen believes that this grassroots effort from podiatrists themselves can help excel student recruitment.