Advisory Colleges
The Advisory Colleges provides a personalized system of academic advising and career development. Each student is assigned to one of seven colleges, forming small, diverse communities guided by dedicated faculty College Advisors and peer-selected student advocates. This program fosters meaningful connections across all four years of medical school while offering specialty-neutral advising to support career exploration and professional growth.
Learn more about the Advisory Colleges
Office of Academic Excellence
The UNC School of Medicine’s Office of Academic Excellence (OAE) is a multidisciplinary team of educators and clinicians dedicated to promoting lifelong learning, academic success, and professional identity formation in medical students. Working across pre-clinical and clinical phases, the OAE offers personalized coaching in study strategies, exam preparation (including Step 1 and 2), clinical skills development, and integration with College Advisors and student support services.
Learn more about the Office of Academic Excellence
SOM Career Development at Carolina
UNC School of Medicine’s Career Development at Carolina (CDAC) program is an essential pillar of support for our medical students, providing guidance, resources, and personalized mentorship throughout every stage of their medical education journey—from the foundation phase through the individualization phase. CDAC parallels the structure of the AAMC’s Careers in Medicine (CiM) program, and is designed to expose students to medical specialties, guide career decision-making, and support residency placements. By fostering self-exploration, career awareness, and professional development, this program empowers students to make informed decisions that align with their strengths, passions, and long-term goals. It plays a critical role in shaping well-rounded, confident, and compassionate future physicians who are prepared to thrive in diverse specialties and healthcare environments. The program’s commitment to individualized support ensures that every student feels seen, supported, and equipped for success in their unique path to residency and beyond.
Learn more about the CDAC Program
Career Goal Advising
The Career Goal Advising helps students explore medical specialties, make informed career decisions, and prepare for residency. Career Goal Advisors offer insights into different specialties, training pathways, and professional expectations, as well as networking opportunities and specialty-specific resources. Advisors work alongside College Advisors to ensure comprehensive career support.
Learn more about Career Goal Advising
Campus Advisors
Campus Advisors are faculty and staff based at UNC’s clinical training sites who provide on-site guidance and mentorship. They assist students embedded in clinical programs by offering location-specific insights, specialty guidance, and support with residency preparation.
Meet our Campus Advisors