Harrell Medical Education Building

This is a review of a building, not a school. Not the least of which, because the college of medicine is so much more than simply a building.

But this is an exceptional building. There are huge swaths of glass and copious natural light. Each level flows organically to the next without the outrageous scale generated by a simple gaping four story atrium.

Access is built with inclusivity in mind. Doors and elevators have large buttons that go to the floor. I suspect they would be easy to activate from a wheelchair or with a crutch.

The educational spaces are open and set up for lectures “in the round.” And the key feature of first and second year – the lecture hall is front and center on the main floor. Admissions and coffee are the two other features of the entry level. And I support these priorities. Admin and other offices are on higher floors. To me, this speaks volumes about the priorities of the staff. It suggests that they have put the students and their well being first.

It is the best place to go if you are seeking a medical degree and want to be the best. It is also the best place to work!