x
Breaking News
More () »

Idaho's first medical school welcomes students

The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine will have 162 students in its inaugural class.

MERIDIAN — Idaho's first medical school is welcoming students. The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine starts on Monday but held orientation for students on Wednesday.

There are 162 students in ICOM's inaugural class and about a third are from Idaho.

Jacob Boyd grew up in Nampa and just got his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University.

"It was a big relief for me," said Boyd. "I knew I wanted to go to medical school for a long time, but I didn't expect to come home."

MORE: Idaho's first medical school: A look inside ICOM

Bilal Darwish is from Chicago and says he's excited to make the Treasure Valley home for at least the next four years.

"There's so much to do," said Darwish. "Climbing mountains, rafting, exploring downtown Boise. This is a very good town."

Dr. Robert Hasty is the founding dean of ICOM and says he's ready to see what the students can do.

"It's been surreal," said Hasty. "Being able to watch and be a part of the founding team for Idaho's first medical school really is incredible."

The school includes medical training mannequins. There are also large classrooms with skeletons and exam rooms where pretend patients will be examined by students.

The public is welcome to check out ICOM on Sept. 5. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will happen that day at 5 p.m.

Before You Leave, Check This Out