Academic Affairs

Statistics show that although underrepresented minorities constitute roughly 11 percent of individuals enrolled in U.S. medical schools, they represent less than five percent of medical school faculty.

This year, SNMA is not only working toward increasing the numbers of minorities entering the medical professions, we are also aiming to increase SNMA members' awareness of careers in academic medicine.

While academic excellence is a hallmark of any individual seeking a career in health care, it does not merely translate into impeccable grades and outstanding standardized test scores. Rather, it also entails a commitment to scholarly pursuits, leadership, and professionalism. Particularly for aspiring physicians, it is not enough for one to be able to regurgitate scientific facts and adhere to standard medical procedures; but, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard and be leaders and not simply followers.

MedConnect / E-mentoring

MedConnect will serve as an on-line forum for SNMA members to communicate with other SNMA members, SNMA alumni, and physicians. The establishment of MedConnect will afford SNMA members opportunities to learn more about specialties they are considering, receive guidance in matching in a particular residency, network with physicians and students across the country, and interact with individuals having similar interests. In addition, health care entities such as medical institutions, health management organizations, and hospitals can also become involved to essentially create an on-line community for minority medical students.

Academic and Clinical Excellence in Training (ACE-IT)

The Academic and Clinical Excellence in Training (ACE-IT) protocol was developed to facilitate academic success during medical school. Specifically, the ACE-IT protocol will provide guidance and instruction in the areas of leadership, test-taking strategies and skills, communication skills, and information and time management. With the ACE-IT protocol, we plan to improve the retention of minority medical students in medical school and foster their career advancement.

Workshops and Forums

The 2007 Annual Medical Education Conference and ten regional conferences will feature workshops and forums geared toward different aspects of academic medicine. Potential topics include the importance of research in the medical school and residency application processes, opportunities for medical students to perform research, the significance of research in career advancement, a comparison of private practice and academic medicine, and the impact of research on the future of medical practice. These workshops and forums are designed to encourage SNMA members to strongly consider pursuing a career in academic medicine with the end result of increasing the number of minority faculty at medical institutions across the country.