Incoming Students’ Booklet

2013-2014 Exchange Season

International Federation of Medical Students’ AssocationsLebanese Medical Students’ International Committee

The Lebanese Medical Students’ International Committee (LeMSIC) is a student run, non governmental, non political and non profit organization representing medical students across several universities in Lebanon.

LeMSIC was founded in 1964 and soon after that it was integrated into the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), which is a recognized non governmental organization within the United Nations’ system and the World Health Organization (WHO). IFMSA is also the student chapter of the World Medical Association (WMA).

This is a LeMSIC Publication© 2014 - Only portions of this publication may be reproduced for non political & non profit purposes mentioning the source provided.

DisclaimerThis publication is the result of the collaborative efforts of multiple contributors.

The mention of specific products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by LeMSIC in preference to others of a similar nature that are not mentioned.

NoticeAll reasonable precautions were taken by LeMSIC to verify the information present within this publication. However, the material is being distributed without any warranty of any kind, implied or expressed. The responsibility for the interpretation and understanding of the material lies with the reader.

Some of the photos within this publication are the exclusive property of their respective authors. LeMSIC has taken all efforts not to violate their rights.

EditorsFiras Yassine, Publications Support Division Director

Yara Younan, NEO-In

ContributorsAmanda Ahmad; Layal Al Mahmassani; Loay Al Rojolah; Hayat Al Tabosh; Hussam Aridi; Zena Chahine; Joseph Cheaib; Rayan Daoud; Alaa Al Chal; Christopher Al Mouhayyar; Lina El Murr; Lea Fayad; Elie Finanos; Noor Hanania; Jana Hassani; Christopher Jabbour; Lojine Kamel; Imad Karam; Saad Madi; Mariam Mella; Nadim Ojaimi; Julio Tannous

Layout EditorsElissa Abou Khalil; Dana Al Oweini; Savo Bou Zein Eddine; Margueritta El Asmar; Camille Hage; Nourhane Houjeij; Lynn Khater; Rasha Tohme; Madeleine Yehia; Sarah Zbeidy

Special Thanks toAnthony Ballan, SCOPE-RA-EMRZiad Ghazzawi, NORAMona Hajj, NEO-OutMarco Mouannes, LEO-USJRalph Tayyar, NORERibal Haddad, LORE-AUBCarl-Joe Mehanna, Treasurer

LeMSICIMPRINT

FIND US ONLINE AT

www.LeMSIC.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTSPreface.......................................i

A word from the NEO...............ii

Contact Information............... iii

The Exchange ProgramAUB and AUBMC......................1

USJ and HDF..............................1

UOB and SGH-UMC..................2

LAU and UMC-RH..................... 2

What to pack........................... 3

The Social Program..................3

LebanonQuick facts................................6

Location, Climate and Geography...............................6

Languages................................7

Currency................................... 8

Telecommunications............... 8

Airport and Transportation......9

Culinary Arts and LeisureTraditional Foods.................... 11

Restaurant/Cafes in Beirut.... 13

Beirut Nightlife.........................13

Malls and Movie Theaters..... 14

Summer Festivals.....................14

PREFACEDear student,

We are happy that you have chosen Lebanon as the

country of your destination and are excited to welcome

you amongst us very soon. We hope that your overall

experience in Beirut will be unforgettable. We also hope

that you will benefit from it as much academically as

culturally and socially.

We present you with this booklet, which contains basic

information about Lebanon and the exchange program,

as well as pertinent contact information. Should you have

any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask us at

any time.

All the best,

The LeMSIC Summer Exchange Team

A WORD FROM THE NEODear incomings,

Holding the position of NEO-In for this term has been an

incredible experience so far. Yet, I am certain that the

highlight of my term will be getting to know more about

each and every one of you.

All throughout this year, an amazing team has been

dedicated to ensure that you will have an experience like

no other – be it at the hospital, during the social program

or even those few hours you will spend at your hostel.

All I can hope for at this point is that we succeed in not

only meeting, but also exceeding your expectations. I am

quite certain you will have a summer like no other.

Welcome to Lebanon!

Yara Younan, NEO-In, 2013-2014

CONTACT INFO.Anthony Ballan, SCOPE-RA -EMRanthony.ballan@hotmail.com +961-3-004651

Mona Haj, NEO-Outmona_a_haj@yahoo.com+961-76-373462

Yara Younan, NEO-Inyara.younan@yahoo.com+961-3-720379

Nader Makarem, LEO-AUBnader.makarem@yahoo.com+961-70-907031

Marco Mouannes, LEO-USJmarcomouannes@hotmail.com+961-70-160362

Stephanie Yacoub, LEO-UOBstephanie.yacoub@ymail.com+961-70-175310

Eliana Al Haddad, LEO-LAUeliana.h91@gmail.com+961-76-919143

Ralph Tayyar, NOREralph.tayyar@yahoo.com+961-3-997591

Ribal Haddad, LORE-AUBribal.haddad@yahoo.com+961-71-170010

Roba Ghassan, LORE-USJrobaghassan@hotmail.com+961-3-033533

Omar Hafez, LORE-UOBomar_f_h@ymail.com+961-76-007322

Michel Skaf, LORE-LAUmjskaf@gmail.com+961-3-267829

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The Exchange ProgramHistory of the American University of Beirut (AUB) and its medical center (AUBMC)

American missionaries in Lebanon and Syria asked Dr. Daniel Bliss to establish a college for higher learning that would include medical training. The college opened with its first class of 16 students on December 3, 1866 and has continually expanded since. On November 18, 1920, the name of the institution was changed from the Syrian Protestant College to the American University of Beirut.

AUB has one main campus in Beirut which includes 71 buildings spread over 73 acres. English is the language of instruction.

AUB’s Faculty of Medicine (FM) is one of the most prominent and respected institutions in the Middle East. It has been accredited by several commissions and has established links and affiliations with several international institutions.

Since its foundation in 1902, the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) has

been one of the leading healthcare centers. Currently, it has a capactiy of over 350 beds. The AUBMC 2020 Vision is transforming medical education, research and medical care in the region, bringing them to new levels of excellence. With expansion plans outlined, AUBMC will be transformed to a medical complex with an over 600-bed capacity.

History of the Université Saint- Joseph (USJ) and its hospital, Hotel Dieu de France (HDF)

Université Saint-Joseph (USJ) is a prestigious university in Beirut, founded in 1875 by French missionaries. It is Lebanon’s oldest and main French speaking university, and ranks among the top universities in the Middle East.

The faculty of medicine of USJ is the second largest in the country, with a remarkable residency program conducted in Hotel Dieu de France (HDF) hospital.

Currently, HDF is an over 400 bed-capacity medical center with a

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The Exchange Programhuge expansion plan that will see completion in the year 2020.

History of the University of Balamand (UOB) and the Saint George Hospital University Medical Center (SGH-UMC)

The University of Balamand is one of the youngest universities in Lebanon, founded by the Orthodox Church in June 1988. Its main campus is located in the northern region of Koura, with three other campuses: one in Sin-El-Fil (Beirut), one in Ashrafieh (Beirut) and one in Beino (Akkar). The Souk El-Gharb campus is set to open in 2015.

In the year 2000, UOB established its Faculty of Medicine & Medical Sciences in association with SGH-UMC. This young medical school has earned national acclaim thanks to its dynamic curriculum and devoted faculty.

Since its beginning 135 years ago, SGH-UMC has expanded from a small clinic to a 230-bed renovated hospital in 2005.

By the end of 2015, renovations of its old building will be complete and the total bed capacity will be increased to about 400.

History of the Lebanese American University (LAU) and the Rizk Hospital University Medical Centre (UMC-RH)

The Lebanese American University was founded in 1835 by American Presbyterian missionaries, and at the time it was known as the American School for Girls (ASG). In 1927, it established a 2-year junior college curriculum, which became known as the Beirut College for Women (BCW). Due to the increasing number of male students accepted, BCW later changed its name to the Beirut University College (BUC). 1994 marked BUC’s official transition from a college into a university and the institution was known as the Lebanese American University.

Though it already housed multiple faculties, it was not until September 2008 that the establishment of the

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The Exchange ProgramLAU Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine took place. It is worthy of noting that LAU’s school of medicine is affiliated with Partners Harvard Medical International (PHMI).

The Lebanese American University has acquired a major shareholder position in the Rizk Hospital University Medical Center (UMC-RH) which was founded in 1957. Rizk Hospital currently has a capacity of 250 beds, with major plans for expansion.

What to pack?

Packing for any trip is always a hassle, so here are a couple of tips to help you through it.

SCOPE: Formal clothes are a must for your hospital clerkship. Boys, make sure you pack formal pants, shirts and neck ties. Girls, make sure your clothes are not too revealing and appropriate for the workplace. No high heels or open shoes allowed. Don’t forget to get your own white coat and stethoscope. OR scrubs will be provided by the hospital if needed.

SCORE: The professor in charge of the research will dictate the dress code. Most likely, it will be casual but bring some formal clothes just in case. Aside from the clerkship, pack light summer clothes, swim suits, a light jacket (for when we go up the mountains) and some comfortable walking shoes.Note that bed sheets are provided by the hostel but towels are not. So, please make sure you get your own towels with you. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.

The Social Program

The LeMSIC summer free social program has been one of IFMSA’s most popular. Every year, the social program is planned meticulously to cover the best of what Lebanon has to offer. It includes guided tours through ancient sites, castles and ruins with exposure to the beauty of the Lebanese nature, the finest traditional Lebanese meals and a nightlife like no other.

This year’s social program includes 3 Full Days and 3 Half Days, in addition to a memorable National

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The Exchange Program Food and Drink Party. The social program will include visiting places such as:

Beirut - the city that has been destroyed 7 times and yet still managed to gain a reputation of being a bustling capital with a vibrant cosmopolitan nightlife.

The Bekaa Valley where you will get to learn about Baalbeck, the city of the Gods, and the ruins of Anjar that have been classified as a world Heritage site by UNESCO.

The ancient city of Byblos - the birthplace of the alphabet. With its famous Citadel, picturesque medieval port and notorious nightlife, Byblos has been labeled a must-see for every visitor to Lebanon.

The Chouf District where you will get to see the Cedars, the external symbol of Lebanon. You will also pass through the fascinating village of Deir el Qamar and the Palace of Beiteddine, a masterpiece of

the Lebanese architecture.

The South of Lebanon with its major cities of Sidon and Tyre. On this day, you will not only get to enjoy the beauty of a number of historical sites, but will also get to relax at the stunning beach of Tyre.

Jeita Grotto that was once considered as a finalist for the New 7 Wonders of the World. With its upper and lower galleries and an underground lake seen by boat, Jeita Grotto is a spectacle that defies description.

Our Lady of Lebanon with its mesmerizing view - especially when you’re riding the cable car.

This is all in addition to a few surprises here and there.

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The Exchange Program

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LebanonQuick facts:

10,452 Km2

4,822,000 (2008)

LBP

UTC+2

UTC+3 in summer

+961

0.754

22-Nov-1943

Arabic

French

English

Beirut

Tripoli, Byblos, Jounieh, Sidon, Tyre

Total surface area:

Population:

Currency:

Time zone:

Call code:

HDI*:

Independence:

Official Language:

Spoken Languages:

Capital city:

Major cities:

* HDI: Human Development Index

Location, Geography & Climate:

Lebanon stretches along the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea, strategically

placed between the East and the West.

Lebanon is one of the world’s smallest countries. What it lacks in size, however, it certainly makes up for in geographical diversity. It has (1) a narrow coastal plain, (2) the inland peaks of Mount Lebanon where all ski resorts are located, (3) the Bekaa plateau and (4) the Anti-Lebanon mountains chain.

It should be no surprise that temperature and weather conditions can vary widely from one place to another. Short distances also make for a unique identity. Lebanese are always quick to tell visitors that it is possible to ski in the morning and tan at the beach in the afternoon.

Lebanon has a typical mediterranean climate, with four distinct seasons. Summer (June-September) is hot on the coast and cooler in the mountains. Spring and Autumn are warm and pleasant and are the ideal times to visit for sightseeing. Winter (December-mid March) is the ideal time for ski with plenty of snow.

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LebanonLanguagesLebanon’s official language is Arabic; it is the only language used across government offices and service providers, as well as across several businesses. The Lebanese population, however, especially the youth, speak several other languages, mainly French and English. Some people may even have basic skills in Italian, Spanish and German.

You should have no problem with language when you go into major restaurants, pubs, bars, movie theaters and shopping malls. This may be different in smaller shops, which are more likely to be owned and/or operated by older people.

Commonly used phrases and expressions

The following phrases and expressions are written out in the Lebanese dialect and, pronounced right, should make for easy conversation.

SalutationsHi MarhabaGood morning Sabah El KheirGood evening Massa El KheirHow are you? [M/F] Keefak/KeefikThank you ShukranYou’re Welcome [M/F] Tekram/TekramiWhat’s new? Shou fi jdid?See you later [M/F] Bchoufak/Bchoufek baadein

PronounsI AnaYou [M/F] Enta/EntiHe HouwweShe Hiyye

Asking for help/directionsI’m lost Dayya’et el tarik Where can I find [...]? Wen fini le’i [...]?Can you help me? [M/F] Momken tse’edne/tse’edini?I’m looking for [...] ‘Am fattech ‘an [...] Excuse me [M/F] Min ba’ed amrak/amrikHow much is this? Addeich se’ro?

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LebanonCurrency and Exchange rates

The Lebanese Pound (LBP) is the official currency of the country. Exchange rates vary according to stock markets but, on average, 1 US$ is equivalent to 1500 LBP and 1 € is equivalent to 2000 LBP.

US$ are accepted almost everywhere you go, but Euros seldom are, if ever at all.

Cost of some consumer goods:

Bottle of mineral water (0.5 L): 500 LBP Bottle of Pepsi/Coke (1.5 L): 1750 LBPBottle of local wine(750 cl): 14000 LBPLocal Beer (Almaza): 1500 LBPMankouche: 1500 LBPShawarma sandwich: 4500 LBPFalafel sandwich: 2000 LBPBigMac Meal (regular): 9000 LBP

Telecommunications

A prepaid SIM card costs 22.73 $ and is valid for 1 month.

Call tariffs:

Local calls: $0.25/min at peak times (08:00-22:00) and $0.15/min off-peak times (22:00-08:00 and Sundays)

International calls vary according to the country: about $0.76/min at peak times and $0.55/min off-peak times

Messaging tariffs:

Local: $0.07/SMS at peak times and $0.05/SMS off-peak times

International: $0.18/SMS at peak times and $0.14/SMS off-peak times

High Speed Mobile Internet is available in Lebanon and provides a fast, reliable connection on the go. The 3G-coverage map includes almost all of Lebanon with speeds up to 21.6 Mbps. 4G-LTE plans are currently being introduced, and are available in almost all of Beirut with speeds up to 150 Mbps.

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LebanonMany 3G/4G data bundles are available and range from $10 per month for 500 MB to $149 per month for 60 GB. Additional traffic costs anywhere from $0.05 to $0.1 per extra MB according to the chosen bundle.

Note that the prices mentioned above all exclude the 10% VAT. It is also important that you don’t buy a used SIM card or a new SIM card from an unauthorised dealer. Check with your contact person for more details.

As for the Internet, it is available in most of Lebanon. Speed ranges from 1 to 8 Mbps with both DSL and HDSL available in Beirut. Please note that we cannot guarantee your lodging will have an internet connection.

Airport and Transportation

Beirut Rafic Hariri International airport is located 9 kilometers from the city center in the southern suburbs, and is the only operating commercial airport in the country.

Don’t worry about getting lost once you arrive to Lebanon. Your contact person will either be waiting for you in the airport or will make sure a paid taxi is present there to pick you up and take you to your hostel/dorm.

Taxi vs. Service:In Lebanon, there are two forms of cabs:

Private taxis (or simply taxi) that you call ahead of time to pick you up and get you straight to your destination. Even though these are more comfortable, they are more expensive.

Service taxis (or simply service) that you can pick up on the road. These are far less expensive costing you around 2000 LBP-4000 LBP per ride. They are, however, less comfortable since they usually carry more than one customer at a time and hence end up making more than one stop.

Whichever cab you end up taking, always make sure the car has a red license plate.

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LebanonYou can find below phone numbers for some of the private taxi companies around Beirut:

Trust taxi: 01-613398

Allo taxi: 1213

Queen taxi: 01-423340

Charlie taxi: 1514

Buses:

Should you choose to take a trip outside Beirut, you will need to resort to public buses.

To go up north (i.e. Dbayye, Kaslik, Jounieh, Jbeil, Batroun or Tripoli), you have to take a bus from either the station at Dawra (Beirut) or the Charles El Helou station at Saifi (Beirut). Both are easily accessible via a cab from your area of residence. Bus fee will be as little as 1500 LBP (destinations closer to Beirut) and as much as 4000 LBP (destinations further away from Beirut).If you want to go south (i.e. to Damour, Jiyye, Saida or Sour) or towards Mount Lebanon or the Bekaa, you’d have to take a bus from the station at Cola (Beirut),

which is also easily accessible via a cab from your area of residence. Fees for these buses are similar to those of buses going north.

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Culinary Arts and LeisureLebanese Traditional Foods

Lebanese cuisine is an ancient one. Highly diverse, it shares many elements with other Eastern Mediterranean cuisines, especially those of Syria, Greece and Turkey.

A traditional Lebanese meal starts off with a collection of mezze, to be followed by grilled meats and array of oriental sweets. What distinguishes Lebanese mezze is that it might be a meal on its own, with up to 30 small hot and cold different dishes. So, make sure you train your tummies in advance.

A typical Lebanese mezze would include many (sometimes all) of the following:

Baba ghannouj char-grilled eggplant, tahine, lemon juice and garlic puree served as a cold dip

Hummus chickpeas, sesame tahini, lemon juice, and garlic served as a cold dip

Daoud Bacha meatball stew with potatoes and tomato sauce

Fattouch a salad of roasted pita bread, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers and chickweed/mint/rocket leaves

Tabboule diced parsley salad with tomatoes, bulgur, and onions

Wara’ ‘Enab vine leaves stuffed with rice and vegetables served as a cold starter

Kibbe ground meat mixed with bulgur and usually stuffed with a variety of ingredients and served in many forms (fried, grilled, with yogurt, etc...)

Kibbe nayye ground meat mixed with little bulgur and served as a steak tartare

Sambusak fried or baked pastry filled either with minced meat and onions, or with spinach, onions and spices

Batata Harra literally meaning “spicy potatoes”, served fried with coriander, red pepper and other hot spices

Lahm B’ajeen “arabic pizza,” it’s a squared or round pastry

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served with minced seasoned meat

Mezze may also contain sea food dishes such as grilled shrimps, deep fried calamari rings, diced octopus meat served with different types of seasoning, etc...

After the mezze comes the main course which is usually a selection of grilled meats (Kafta, Kebab, Chich Taouk, etc...)

At the very end comes the dessert, which includes a selection of seasonal fruits, oriental sweets and tradtional, home made oriental ice cream.

With this much food, you certainly may need a drink to wash it all down. Traditionally, Arak, an anise-flavored liquor (similar to the Greek Ouzo) is served with such a big feast. Alternatively, you may opt for local beer or wine.

Culinary Arts and Leisure

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Restaurants/cafes around Beirut

Beirut has many options for you to choose from when it comes to food, be it in Hamra, Ashrafieh, Downtown, or at the Waterfront. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find a place that will serve it.

In Hamra, be it on the main street, Bliss street, Sourati street or Jeanne d’Arc street, you’re never more than a few-minutes walk from local, national or international food outlets. The main street, in particular, has been redeveloped in recent years, and there you may find places like the following:

T-Marbouta a traditional Lebanese food place with a cosy atmosphere and lively music. It is relatively cheap compared to other major restaurants and of very good quality!

Roadster’s Diner and Deek Duke two national fast food franchisesDunkin Donuts, Costa, and Starbucks are some of the well known international franchises

you can find there.

Gemmayze also has a selection of fine restaurants and cafes, of which we must recommend Mayrig (Armenian food) and Cafe Em Nazih (a cosy, self service, traditional Lebanese place).

Other restaurants you want to try include Maki gourmet and Sushi Lounge (sushi), Lord of the Wings, Margherita Pizzeria, Al Mandaloun Cafe, etc..

Beirut Nightlife

Beirut is very famous for its extremely vibrant nightlife.

In Downtown Beirut, Uruguay street is the newest and hippest destination among Lebanese people and tourists. It has around 15 pubs, of which we recommend Charlie’s Checkpoint, Bodo, Main Street, Zucca and Bronx. All play similar types of music (commercial, pop and, very rarely, rap), have a friendly staff, and serve good quality alcohol.A beer would cost you anywhere from US$6-8, shots around US$5-6 and cocktails around US$12.

Culinary Arts and Leisure

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The area of Ashrafieh is known for Mar Mikhael and Gemmayze streets which form one long road with pubs left and right. Our recommendations here include Charlie’s, Internazionale, and The Gathering.

Hamra also has a vibrant pub scene with places like February 30, Neighbours and The Moscow Mule.

As for clubs, we must recommend Skybar (Downtown Beirut), White (Dora area), and Al Mandaloun (Mar Mikhael). These are a bit pricy, but surely worth every penny. Make sure you are dressed appropriately and that you have your ID with you before going.

Malls and Movie Theaters

Beirut is not short on shopping malls. There is one in almost every district of the capital. These include City Mall (in Dora), ABC (in Dbayye and Ashrafieh), Le Mall (in Dbayye and Sin El Fil), Beirut City Center (in Hazmieh), and Beirut Souks (in the Downtown area). Most of these have state of the art movie

theaters and are great shopping destinations.

Summer Festivals

The summer season in Lebanon usually boasts many festivals, as well as stand-alone concerts, events, exhibitions, and fairs. Throughout the past 20 years, some festivals have made a big name for themselves, featuring world renowned acts and attracting large numbers of spectators.

The Byblos International Festival

Jbeil, or Byblos, is the world’s oldest continuously-inhabited city and famous UNESCO world heritage site. Every year, during the month of July, this historic city hosts its international festival that features both local and international stars. The concerts take place by the seaside in front of the 12th century Crusaders castle. Past years editions featured artists such as Lana Del Rey, OneRepublic, Scorpions, Slash, and Thirty Seconds to Mars.

Culinary Arts and Leisure

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This year’s program will be announced late May, so be sure to check online for updates (www.byblosfestival.org).

The Baalbeck International Festival

It is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in the Middle East. It takes place during the months of July and August and is hosted amid the magnificent ruins of the Temples of Bacchus and Jupiter in the ancient city. It features opera, pop, jazz, classical and contemporary performances by both international and local artists (www.baalbeck.org.lb).

Beiteddine Art Festival

It takes place during the months of July and August in the 200-year-old Beiteddine palace in the Chouf Mountains of Lebanon. It is unique in that it not only hosts music events, but also art exhibitions, dance performances of various genres, and acrobatic and circus groups. Beiteddine Art Festival

will surely meet your expectations and provide you with a wide variety of cultural and artistic events that suit any taste (www.beiteddine.org).

Zouk Mikael International Festival

Hosted in the charming village of Zouk Mikael during the month of July, the Zouk Mikael International Festival features artists both international and local that perform in its roman-styled amphitheatre. Concerts range from classical to jazz, opera, and blues, and the atmosphere is promised to be electric (www.zoukmikaelfestival.org).

One more festival to mention is rather a newcomer: The Jounieh International Festival, which takes place in July in the Fouad Chehab Stadium in the city, (www.jouniehinternationalfestival.com).

Culinary Arts and Leisure

© April 2014 - All Rights Reserved.Lebanese Medical Students’ International Committee (LeMSIC)

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