He then started to work under the tutelage of Dr. Joseph K. Swift, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. Swift realized quickly that Gross' rudimentary education was insufficient training for work as a doctor. Gross then returned to preparatory school, first attending Wilkes-Barre Academy.
Swift, who was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Dr. Joseph K. Swift's mentor, soon recognized that Gross lacked sufficient medical training. As a result, Gross went back to preparatory school, first enrolling at Wilkes-Barre Academy.