Are there special programs for underrepresented students?
Yes. One of the most widely studied problems in our health care system is the disproportion of minority practitioners as a relation to the overall demographic population. The low number of health care providers from ethnic minorities and lower incomes do not reflect our current population. This contributes to health care disparities as people are often more comfortable seeking care from someone from their own community.
Many schools have someone in their admissions office who works directly with underrepresented students, whether as undergraduates or graduates. In Connecticut, for example, a full-year minority program exists as part of the post-baccalaureate program at the UCONN School of Medicine. This program is designed to not only prepare those students for admission to medical school but to ensure they are prepared to become successful contributors to the medical community. For disadvantaged pre-med students, the great advantage of finding a solid program is the opportunity to be guided by a specialist in several critical areas. All students must be able to sustain the rigor of academic coursework that a medical degree requires; all students must have access to and exposure to a clinical environment, laboratory and financial resources to continue preparing for and pursuing a medical education.
There are also programs that were initially intended to recruit underrepresented students that you might consider. Many medical schools, colleges and hospitals have summer enrichment programs. These programs offer you the opportunity to spend time in a clinical setting, work on reviewing for the MCAT, participate in research, learn about professionalism, and enjoy some time with future colleagues.
If you have never considered gaining exposure to medicine then you should consider getting started - it is never too early or too late (besides, med school or otherwise, you are giving your time and talent to people that need your help). The important thing to remember is that there are resources available. Start with what you have to work with - your current college or academic institution, a local hospital, clinical or nurses association, community centers for seniors etc. Any organization that provides medical care or assisted living services will have information that will benefit you as you work toward gaining medical experience. You never know what you may learn or who you might meet when you begin to put yourself out there - so feel good about taking the plunge and keep working toward that medical degree.
Shane offers expert advice on a variety of topics that affect college students. He is a senior contributor to http://www.grademakers.com - a college-level academic editing, writing and tutoring service.
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