Experiential Learning
Student Organizations
Joining a student organization is a great way to connect with peers who share your interests, as well as opportunities to engage more deeply with issues you are passionate about. UVM's Minority Association for Premedical Students is a student-run club that connects underrepresented students with networking, internship, entrance exam preparation, research/volunteering, and scholarship opportunities. Other identity-based and career-related clubs can provide additional connections, relationships, and skill-building opportunities. Check out UVM Clubs to learn more and get involved.
Internships, Research, and Enrichment Programs
Pursuing an internship or enrichment program can grant you access to professional networks, mentorship, and future opportunities. Several are focused on supporting students from marginalized backgrounds, though the definition of which identity groups are considered underrepresented is evolving and varies from program to program.
- Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)
- AAMC's Summer Enrichment & Pipeline Programs Database
There are three UVM-based programs whose mission is to increase the pipeline of underrepresented students in medicine. Email prehealth@uvm.edu to receive information about how to register:
- The UPP Project (The URiM Pathway to Pediatrics): a one-day, in-person, interactive event in late spring for first- and second-year college students from historically underrepresented and underserved backgrounds in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Upstate New York, to learn about what it means to be a pediatrician.
- Look at Larner: an overnight weekend program (generally in September) for upper level underrepresented students / young college alums who are upcoming (or current) medical school applicants
- PIPE (Pathways in Pediatric Education): a year-long, longitudinal program to expose underrepresented 3rd and 4th year premedical undergraduates to the field of pediatrics, through monthly clinical shadowing.
Mentorship
Finding professionals that you feel a meaningful connection with can be a great asset in the process of finding and applying to medical or dental school. It will likely be difficult to find a single mentor who shares all of your identities and experiences, but consider creating a "personal board of directors" who you can turn to for advice, reflective conversations, and personal connection throughout your journey to a career in medicine or dentistry. There are many different ways that you can find a mentor - from trusted faculty members or your academic advisor to a lab supervisor, internship host, or an alum that you meet through UVM Connect, LinkedIn, or a networking event.
Application Support
Fee Assistance Programs are designed to support those who need funding support to cover the costs of entrance exams and application fees. Requirements vary, and awards are often given on a first come-first serve basis.