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Student Musculoskeletal Society

The Student Musculoskeletal Society (SMS) is a student-run organization which fosters clinical experience, education and professional development in the field of musculoskeletal medicine.

Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine's (GCSOM's) Student Musculoskeletal Society (SMS) events supplement the standard medical curriculum with interactive lectures on pathology and physical exam, cadaveric surgical skills workshops and community service. Relationships with practicing physicians, alumni and school faculty help students advance their careers through clinical experience, research opportunities and mentorship.

Learn more about our group leadership.

Want to get involved? E-mail inquiries to Carly Deter, MD Class of 2024, at cdeter@som.geisinger.edu

Major programs

Clinical skills events

Geisinger Commonwealth hosts many events throughout the year in collaboration with Geisinger physicians, residents and students designed to help students develop clinical skills which will prepare them for success in the clinical space. Learn more about the clinical skills events.

Shadowing – clinical and operative room experience

Geisinger Commonwealth is fortunate to have talented and driven physicians with a penchant for teaching and inspiring the rising physicians of the future. SMS has partnered with orthopaedic surgeons, physiatrists, general surgeons, pediatric orthopaedic surgeons, sports medicine specialists and trauma surgeons – all dedicated to offering perspective into their daily lives in both the clinic and the operating room.

If you’re interested in shadowing a physician in one of these specialties, contact Jessica Koshinski, MD Class of 2024, at jkoshinski01@som.geisinger.edu.

The SMS Residency Series

The SMS Residency Series was a new initiative hoping to create new connections amongst the musculoskeletal community. Originally starting within Pennsylvania, 10 medical schools across the mid-Atlantic and northeast regions now participate with plans to continue to expand. The vision is to develop a Zoom series highlighting each institution's residency programs and provide a platform for physicians and medical students to share their areas of expertise. This series will provide a platform to learn from experts in the field, and is also an opportunity to learn about programs outside of our respective institutions. The overall goal is to continue our partnership, provide well-rounded educational experiences for students and exchange opportunities across institutions.

If you’re interested in learning more about this series or are interested in joining, contact Jessica Koshinski, MD Class of 2024, at jkoshinski01@som.geisinger.edu.

The Dr. Balsamo Lecture Series

Learn more about The Dr. Balsamo Lecture Series and past presentations by faculty and mentors.

Sports Medicine Lecture Series

Geisinger Commonwealth's Student Musculoskeletal Society began its Sports Medicine Lecture Series in September 2019. This is a community-based educational program for healthy living with a focus on sports medicine. These interactive lectures are designed for athletes, coaches, parents, community members and anyone seeking to begin or maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

Research/career development

While many projects are conducted during the summer between first and second year, SMS partners with physicians throughout northeast Pennsylvania to stimulate student involvement in academic investigation and contribution to research year-round.

Physicians currently conducting research projects in association with Geisinger Commonwealth and SMS:

  • L. Christopher Grandizio, DO
  • Mark Seeley, MD
  • John Mercuri, MD, MA

Community outreach

St. Joe’s Center Field Day planning committee
In September, SMS will host a Field Day (games, BBQ, arts and crafts) for St. Joseph’s Center residents at their pavilion in Dunmore. St. Joseph’s Center provides individuals and families who have special needs the opportunity to develop their abilities through in-house living programs. Ongoing volunteer opportunities are also available to SMS members.

American Medical Women's Association (AMWA) Girl's Day in Science volunteer opportunities 
SMS will be participating in the AMWA Girl’s Day in Science event, which will take place virtually this year. Girl’s Day in Science provides school-aged girls the opportunity to explore health-related science topics through hands-on activities. Service hours will be earned for this event.