The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery is organized to accomplish a focused initiative in learning, community service, and research. The Division is committed to a quality cardiothoracic surgery education and provides a collegial learning environment at work as well as active social lives outside of the university and hospital.
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What is St. Louis like? Check out this video that gives a flavor of our city:
Housing
St. Louis offers fellows both a high quality of life and a lower cost of living than the national average. While a fellow enjoys the amenities of a large metropolitan area, their salary goes much further than in many other cities. For example, the cost of housing in St. Louis is low, and many residents can buy comfortable homes close to the Medical Center (see a map of where residents live).
WUMCHA
The Washington University Medical Center Housestaff Auxiliary (WUMCHA) provides a large network of support for the fellow and their family during relocation to St. Louis. WUMCHA is a group of female residents, fellows, medical students and attendings affiliated with the Medical Center, and female spouses and significant others of the same. The Auxiliary was formed to address the special needs and life stresses encountered by the fellow when adjusting to the St. Louis community. WUMCHA offers support and friendship to its members through a variety of social activities for both children and adults. Important information on such subjects as housing, job hunting, babysitting and schools is also compiled and provided to the resident. Please visit www.wumcha.com for more information.
Child care
Several years ago, options for child care expanded as the Washington University Family Learning Center opened in University City – near the medical school – to serve the children of faculty, residents, fellows, students and staff.
Central West End
Another significant advantage to living in St. Louis is the location of the Medical Center in a stable and attractive area of the city. Barnes-Jewish Hospital sits at the edge of Forest Park in the Central West End (CWE). At the turn of the century, the CWE was the fashionable section of town, featuring many private streets lined with mansions. In the 1920s, high-rise apartment buildings and more houses for middle-class residents were constructed. The atmosphere changed in the 1970s, when the CWE suffered from urban decay and suburban flight. Over the last 20 years, Washington University Medical Center has leveraged $430 million to improve the CWE. Today, the CWE is home to loft-style apartments, diverse restaurants and a thriving nightlife, all within walking distance of the medical center. Many residents live in the CWE and walk to work from affordable apartments in the vicinity of the Medical Center.