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 had graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and served as Dr. Joseph K. Swift's mentor, identified that Gross needed more training before becoming a doctor. As a consequence, Gross resumed his education at preparatory school, beginning with Wilkes-Barre Academy.