Most Frequently Asked Question in AY 2020-2021

Can I work on my Capstone for my FCE?

This is the most common question FCE leadership receives—and for good reason—there is not much time allotted for dedicated capstone work, especially not in third year.

The short answer is that you may not "work on your Capstone" during an assigned FCE week. This rule protects the integrity of both the FCE and Capstone courses.

We do, however, absolutely encourage you to generate adjacent or secondary queries that comprise a component of your capstone project and can be generalized across many topics. For example, if you are ready to crunch Capstone data, the generalizable "adjacent query" is to understand statistical analysis - which may also include determining the appropriate software, engaging a biostatistician for advice, or accessing public data sources. The secret is crafting learning objectives that describe skills that can be accomplished by any student, regardless of the topic.

It's important to remember that FCEs are not intended to be one-week periods of independent study. Rather, the course offers the student the opportunity and potential to design permanent student-created UMass Chan curriculum, to demonstrate interest and commitment to top tier residency programs, and to highlight leadership skills and professional competency on your curriculum vitae by engaging in curriculum development as a medical undergraduate.

Check the Designing an FCE FAQ page for additional questions, or contact us directly at UMMSFCEProgram@umassmed.edu.