Reasons Why You Should Come to UCSF

Second Look Weekend for the incoming first-year class at UCSF occurred last weekend, but it doesn't mean that I shouldn't launch my own private blog campaign to bring would-be premedical students to our hallowed institution. Look out for more reasons to come in the near future...I will list the reasons numerically as they occur to me.

Reason #1: UCSF is a vibrant institution; you will never be bored. When I was checking my email over spring break, my mother glanced at the unread messages in my inbox and gasped...she asked me if I always had 20 new emails advertising different charity events, seminars, organizational meetings, social events, free food events, bake sales, journal clubs, protest rallys, tutoring sessions...you get the picture. Having grown accustomed to cleaning out my inbox every afternoon as a matter of survival (to avoid being crushed and suffocated by a swollen electronic inbox), I never realized how privileged UCSF students are to be able to have SO MANY activities and events available each and every day. Although I try to take advantage of everything offered, it's impossible to participate in everything that interests me!

Here is a recent email to give you an idea of what happens at UCSF every week:

May 15, Noon - 1pm N225 (Parnassus) How to Start And Manage a PracticeYou’re preparing to be a brilliant practitioner, but will you be ready to be a brilliant business owner? Get the jump on what it takes to successfully start and manage a health care practice. The issues, the concepts, the language are all novel for UCSF students but will be increasingly important to understand as you contemplate your future professional options. This session offers a basic overview of financing, staffing and managing a healthcare practice. Presenter: Kevin Mc Namara, Student Loan XPRESS Cosponsored with Student Financial Services

::Passport to Wellness:: Through May 24. Attend events. Get Stamps. Win Prizes. Be Well http://www.ucsf.edu/passportStudent Activity Center: MU108W, 502.2442, MConway@ucsf.edu_____________________________________________________________________::

PLUS info you need THIS WEEK ::TOPICS FOR NEXT YEAR’S STUDENT ENRICHMENT SERIES: FIVE QUESTION SURVEY, PLEASE!Two minutes, 5 questions and you will send us off in the right planning direction for Tuesdays at noon next academic year. Your opinion is the only one that counts. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=808233821751

WALK THE LABYRINTH: YOUR MOVING MEDITATION EXPERIENCETODAY Wed. May 9, 10am - 3pm, Saunders CourtLabyrinths have been used over centuries as a tool for moving meditation and spiritual practice. They are not connected to any religion and lend themselves to any personal belief system. Use this unique opportunity to fuel your soul and move into relaxation. Sponsored by the UCSF Spiritual Care Program. *Passport to Wellness!

THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF THE IRAQ WAR: UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES
TODAY Wed. MAY 9, 2-5 PM, in Millberry UnionWe are at UCSF to learn about the alleviation of human suffering. We have been at war for 4 years now, and it is our role to learn about, and to teach about, the suffering involved. What can we do? The symposium will feature invited guests along with speakers from within the UCSF community. Plan to participate in this important, interesting, and exciting event. Arrange your meetings, lectures and classes so that we can join together during the teach-in. We look forward to taking action and learning with you on May 9th!

AFROFUSION RETURNS: A CELEBRATION OF THE AFRICAN DIASPORAFriday evening, May 11, 6:30pm, Millberry GymThe African diaspora is the story of how Africans, though scattered and dispersed, managed to retian their traditions and reform teir identities all over the world. Dance performances, fashion, food and so much more! Free. Black Student Health Alliance

NOTES OF CHANGE BENEFIT CONCERTFri May 11, Milk Lounge, 1840 Haight @ Stanyan, 8-10pm, $5 at the doorSponsored by the Asian Health Caucus to benefit the San Francisco Women’s Shelter

VOCAL CHORDS ANNUAL SPRING CONCERT Friday, May 11th, 7pm-8pm. Location: N-225.Sit back and enjoy a performance by UCSF's A Cappella choir: Vocal Chords Singing jazz, doo-wop, modern rock, ballads, and everyone's favorite old-school songs. FUN, LIVE, and FREE entertainment! Open to everyone. Free Refreshments. Vocal Chords is comprised of UCSF students, post-docs, residents, and staff. Passport to Wellness stamp!Contact: Lillian.Hsieh@ucsf.edu

KaBooM FIREWORKS FROM MISSION BAY GARAGE TOP: GET A PASSPORT STAMP!Sat May 12, at dusk, Meet on the roof of the Bakar Fitness Center parking structure KaBoom is an all day event sponsored by KFOG that features an expanded fireworks display synchronized to a World Class Rock soundtrack and the exciting, fun atmosphere that Fogheads make happen every year. For great viewing and destressor, gather at the top of Bakar Fitness Center and get a Passport stamp from Suya Colorado-Caldwell. Look for the woman with the silver jeep serving chocolate chip cookies. She’ll be looking for you.

UCSF DEPT OF DERMATOLOGY: FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING May 12 Sat May 12, 9am to 4pm, 3rd floor Med Center Mt. Zion, 1701 Divisadero
Worried about a change in your skin? A sister’s mole? Your dad’s sun damage? May is designated as Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month® One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetimes, but through early detection, it can be highlycurable. UCSF and community dermatologists will participate in the screening and will provide informational material on self-examination for skin cancer. open to anyone, free, and no appointment. For more information about the screening, please call 415/353-7800.

FRIDAY NIGHTS AT THE DE YOUNG MUSEUM ARE BACK!
5:00 PM - 8:45 PM, DeYoung Museum in Golden Gate Park, Wilsey Court and Kimball Education GalleryFriday Nights are back! The popular series returns, offering live music, poetry, films, dance, tours, lectures, cocktails, food, artist demonstrations, and interactive art projects. Enjoy a variety of musical performances; performance art; artwear demonstrations; art works made from recycled clothing; student designers and more for free. The galleries are $10. The calendar: http://www.thinker.org/deyoung/

PASSPORT TO WELLNESS: 16 DAYS TO GET 6 STAMPS
Check out the Passport website http://www.ucsf.edu/passport for all 14 events between now and May 24 where you can relax, get a stamp and be well! There are endless visits to the gym possible. Get your name into the raffle hat by getting 6 stamps before the 24th. Be Well!It is all free and brought to you by your campus wide student services.

OUTDOOR PROGRAMS ARE PASSPORT PROGRAMS!:
Introduction to Rock Climbing:Sa 5/12, Sa 5/19, each class is $55 and is 9am – 12pmThis three-hour entry-level climbing class is designed to get you up and climbing on the new outdoor wall at Bakar Fitness Center at Mission Bay. You’ll learn and practice basic climbing skills, proper use of equipment, and belay techniques. Successful completion of this course will qualify beginners to take the skills test and safety orientation at no additional charge.

WOMEN'S HEALTH RESOURCE FAIR
Monday, May 14th, 11:30-1:30 pm, City Lights/Golden Gate Rooms, Millberry Conference CenterGet informed, check out your own health status, take care of yourself all free. Check your bone health: get a free bone density screening. brought to you by the Women's Health Organization at UCSF. A Passport to Wellness program.

NUTRITION TO STAY HEALTHY: DO I NEED VITAMINS?
Tues. May 15, 5-6pm, SHS Parnassus clinic, MU-H005A small group workshop emphasizing the latest research on foods and vitamins to fight stress and disease, be energetic, stay healthy and maintain your weight. Refreshments. Sign up: shs@ucsf.eduOr in person at the SHS clinic. A Passport to Wellness program!

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN CELEBRATION WEEK
MONDAY, MAY 14, 12noon, HSW 303, Parnassus Keynote Speaker, Preston Ni. on Communication and Culture at UCSF
TUESDAY, MAY 15, 6pm, Mission Bay Apartments Community Room
CHPSA's Dumpling and Tea Night
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 12noon, UCSF Library Lange Reading Room
The Music in the Library featuring Benjamin Sun, a Passport to Wellness Program
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 12noon, Genentech Hall, Cafe 24, Mission Bay Steve Espaniola, Hawaiian slack key guitarist
THURSDAY, MAY 17, 12noon, The View, Laurel HeightsSteve Espaniola, Hawaiian slack key guitaristTHURSDAY, MAY 17, 6pm Genentech Hall, Mission Bay"China Blue" screening FRIDAY, MAY 18TH, 12noon, Millberry Union Gym
Filipino Cultural Show:: PLUS info you need

UPCOMING & ONGOING ::
CALL TO ACTION: DON’T LET SACRAMENTO GAMBLE YOUR FUTURE AWAYUrge Your legislators to Make a Safe Bet for Higher Education during the UCSA Week of Action May 7th - 11th @ www.ucsa.org UCSA is calling on ALL students and families to fax a letter and make a call May 7th - May 11th urging Sacramento to BUYOUT the UC Fee Increase and RESTORE Academic Preparation Program funding to $33 for info: http://votervoice.net/target.aspx?id=ucsa:15185334

CHECK OUT THIS FREEBIE TO BEAT ALL FREEBIES If you have a Bank of America card, many SF museums are FREE for you and a friend in May. Really. No more excuses. http://www.bankofamericapromotions.com/museums/

MUSIC IN THE LIBRARY: BENJAMIN SUN MASTER OF THE ERHU
Wed May 16, noon – 1pm, Lange Reading Rm, UCSF Library
The Erhu is a traditional Chinese two-stringed musical instrument that became popular during the Song Dynasty. Sun has received many awards for his music and has been honored at command performances in Beijing with the Central Ballet Orchestra of China. Free! A Passport to Wellness program!

UCSF STUDENT ADD-ON: $20/MO FITNESS & RECREATION CENTERS
The Fitness & Recreation Centers at UCSF have adjusted the standard membership monthly rate for any additional adult household members of a UCSF Student. This Standard Membership package is called UCSF Student Add-On. Dues have been discounted to $20.00 per month. Any UCSF Student Add-On who enrolled on or after July 1, 2006 is eligible for a credit to the UCSF Student’s membership account. Eligible UCSF Students and their Add-Ons, contact Member Services for more info: Millberry 415.476.0348; Bakar 415.476.5646

EARTH FEST
Thurs. May 17, 11 – 3pm MU GymOver 50 information and product tables, Free raffle tickets for eco-gifts and more. Shop, samples, learn green choices. Very popular last year so come early. A Passport to Wellness program.

BIKE TO WORK DAY
Thurs. May 17, all morning at key routes into campusGet a Passport to Wellness stamp for riding and leaving the other options at home!

THE COST OF A TICKET: CHECK OUT THE RANGE OF OPTIONS!Have some time on your hands? Here are some good options for high- and low-end entertainment. There are some freebies, too. http://www.sfgate.com/datebook/ticketcost/

SF ZOO PASSESThe passes are available for 24 hr. check out at the Student Activity Center, Millberry Union 108W. Must have your student ID to check out the pass. Passport to Wellness stamp when you check out the zoo pass!

EARN A PASSPORT STAMP: CLIMB THE STAiRS OR HILL FROM IRVING TO PARNASSUSCome in our of breath but thrilled with your success to the SAC, MU108W, and get a Passport to Wellness Stamp! Get six and enter the raffle. http://www.ucsf.edu/passport We are open 7:30 am to 5:00pm M-F.

9TH ANNUAL INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FORUM: COMMUNICATING ACROSS CULTURES OF HEALING May 18 & 19, Parnassus Campus Pre-Registration: Student :$20, ($30 day of) Includes dinner, breakfast, lunch. Keynote topics include: “The Art & Science of Mind/Body Medicine”, "Indigenous Diets from Around the World: Ancient Cures for Modern Plagues", “Guiding People for Self-Healing Across Cultures: Reducing Dependency” and workshop topics: Herbs & Weight loss, Integrative Medicine and Cancer, Ayurveda, Holistic Healing, Homeopathy, Yoga, Energy Healing, and more! To register and for more info: http://www.ucsf.edu/imn/ A Passport to Wellness program!

WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE MAY 19 @ MISSION BAYMay 19, 2:30- 5:30pm, Bakar Fitness & Recreation Center, Studio 1, Activity Code: 2434.45, $55Women, get the essential skills needed to defend yourselves and maintain confidence in any situation. Practice and train in a series of safe, but realistic scenarios and learn how to program your mind and body to respond automatically, day or night. Taught by IMPACT Bay Area , www.impactbayarea.org. 415-514-4545 for questions about registration. A Student Passport to Wellness program!

DISABILITY VIDEO SERIES: ARE THE KIDS ALRIGHT?Wed May 23, 12 – 1pm, S172 (Medical Sci Bldg.)This searing documentary examines the crisis in mental health care for children and adolescents at risk and the catastrophic decline in the availability of appropriate service for young people. Info: alice.wong2@ucsf.edu

SCHOOL OF PHARMACY: 9TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY SERVICE SPRING AUCTIONThurs May 31, 4:30-7:30pm MU Conference CenterSave the Date! This auction serves to benefit pharmacy students’ community service activities. Funds raised through attendants’ bids enable School of Pharmacy service groups to continue to provide health screenings, disease-state management counseling, and informational health fair presentations to Bay Area communities. There will will be a Silent Auction followed by a Live Auction and Raffle. Appetizers and light refreshments will be provided. Check out our website http://www.ucsfspringauction.org/ See you there!

8TH ANNUAL UC SYSTEMWIDE BIOENGINEERING SYMPOSIUMJune 15-17, Mission Bay Campus, call for abstracts and registration now open http://www.bioengineering.ucsf.edu/UCBIOE.vp.htmlKeynote speakers include Tejal Desai, PhD on Micro and Nanofabricated Interfaces for Therapeutic Delivery and Joe DeRisi, PhD on The Virus-Chip: Pathogen Diagnostics and Discovery. All are welcome to this open symposium. Register now for the early bird rate of $75. MARK YOUR SUMMER SUNDAY CALENDAR:

FREE STERN GROVE CONCERTS
Sundays, 2:00 p.m., June 17 - August 19, 2007, Stern Grove - 19th Ave & Sloat BoulevardStern Grove Festival is San Francisco's celebration of community, nature, and the arts. World-class performing arts has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors every summer in one of the country's most beautiful and unique natural settings. Check out the performers http:// www.SternGrove.org--

Student Activity CenterUniversity of California, San Francisco415-502-2442Maureen.conway@ucsf.eduhttp://student.ucsf.edu/sac/