It is possible to attend medical school and still have a personal life! Learn about some aspects of life as a student at Washington University School of Medicine below.
Living in St. Louis
Home of the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, Busch Stadium, the zoo, botanical gardens and many museums, St. Louis is a city with something for everyone.
Students will spend the majority of their time at the Washington University Medical Center, which is located in the Central West End, a vibrant St. Louis neighborhood with plenty of culture, restaurants, parks and other sights.
Learn more about St. Louis and its surroundings »
Housing
Inexpensive, desirable housing can be found throughout St. Louis, including neighborhoods close to the School of Medicine. One of the more popular areas, the Central West End, offers affordable apartment living within walking distance of the medical center and close to specialty shops, art galleries and eclectic restaurants. Students also have the option of single-room housing in Olin Residence Hall. Medical students may use Olin’s athletic facilities, which include a free large gym and weight room.
Getting around
Although many students bring a car to campus, Washington University helps make getting around St. Louis easier without one. Full-time students are eligible to receive a free MetroLink Upass that provides unlimited access to the entire public transit system, including buses and light rail (MetroLink). Students may take the MetroLink to commute between the Medical and Danforth (main) campuses.
Danforth (main) campus
The 169-acre Danforth campus is on the western edge of Forest Park, and medical students take advantage of its athletic and cultural facilities. The athletic complex includes an Olympic-size pool, indoor track, racquetball courts and training equipment. The Edison Theatre, in the Mallinckrodt Center, presents world-class dance, theater and musical artists. Other offerings include intramural sports programs and lectures by prominent national figures.
The Disorientation Guide offers even more insight into student life at Washington University School of Medicine.
Student affinity groups
The Office of Diversity Programs supports a variety of student affinity groups, including:
- Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA)
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer + (LGBTQ+)
- Student National Medical Association (SNMA)