Wellness and Professional Identify Formation

At the UT Tyler School of Medicine, we recognize that thriving in medical school requires more than academic success—it requires a commitment to personal well-being and professional growth. Our approach to student wellness is comprehensive, addressing all eight domains of wellness—emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual—to support students in becoming resilient, compassionate physicians.

Student Wellness

We offer a variety of resources and initiatives to promote well-being, balance, and self-care throughout medical school:

Student Gym – Conveniently located on campus, the gym provides a space for students to stay active and relieve stress. UT Tyler main campus also offers robust physical wellness programs through Rec Sports, including fitness classes, intramurals, outdoor adventures and aquatics program, most of which are free to students.
UT Tyler Counseling Center – Free, confidential mental health services are available to help students navigate the challenges of medical school. We also bring a counselor to campus at least once a month. Students also have access to TimelyCare, offering on-demand emotional support, appointment-based counseling, advanced psychiatric care, and more, 24/7.
WOW (Workshops on Wellness) Days – Dedicated time for students to step away from academic pressures and engage in workshops focused on mindfulness, nutrition, stress management, and other key wellness topics.
Wellness Spaces – Quiet, restorative areas throughout campus designed for relaxation, social engagement, and time away from the classroom.
Financial Wellness Workshops – Sessions that equip students with the tools to manage debt, budget effectively, and plan for their financial future.
Imperfect Rounds Series – A story-telling series addressing the challenges and realities of medical training, including mental health, imposter phenomenon, and normalizing failure.
Workgroup on Wellness Committee – A SOM-wide initiative focused on shaping wellness programming and advocating for student, faculty, and staff needs.
Individual Wellness Meetings – Students can schedule one-on-one meetings with the Director of Student Wellness & Professional Formation for personalized support and guidance.

Professional Identity Formation

Becoming a physician is not just about acquiring medical knowledge—it’s about developing a strong professional identity. Through structured reflection, discussion, and skill-building, we guide students in shaping their values, communication style, and leadership approach. Our key programs include:

REST (Relating, Engaging, and Sharing Together) Curriculum – A structured program designed to foster meaningful conversations around personal growth, ethical challenges, and professional development.
Reflection Guide – A structured tool to help students process their experiences, set personal and professional goals, and navigate the evolving demands of medical training.
Assertive Communication & Behaviors Series – A three-part workshop series focused on developing confidence, advocacy skills, and effective communication strategies essential for professional success.

By integrating wellness and professional formation into the student experience, we ensure that every UT Tyler medical student is supported in their journey toward becoming a capable, compassionate physician.