University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Launches New Programs to Diversify Medical Careers

Adolescents from historically excluded communities in Miami-Dade County are gaining access to STEM courses and medical experiences through new programs launched by the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. The Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement has partnered with Miami-Dade County Public Schools to create the Future Docs and Health Careers Collaborative Program, providing 75 students with the tools and experience needed to pursue careers in medicine. The programs aim to increase interest in medical careers among underrepresented groups and provide a pathway to success.

Key Takeaways:

• The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine has launched two new programs, Future Docs and the Health Careers Collaborative Program, to provide adolescents from historically excluded communities with STEM education and medical experiences.
• The programs are designed to increase interest in medical careers among underrepresented groups and provide a pathway to success.
• 50 students from Madison Middle School participated in the Future Docs program, led by medical students Greeshma Venigalla and Mayada Elshiek.
• Students in the Health Careers Collaborative Program participated in interactive activities, case studies, and college preparedness sessions, with mentorship and academic support services offered to 25 students.
• The courses are offered through a $25,000 award from the Miami Foundation, supporting high school students in grades 10-11.
• The diversity office plans to host 75 students on the medical campus for a day of immersion and is considering expanding the programs to the elementary level through the Doctors of Tomorrow program.
• The programs are part of the Miller School of Medicine Task Force on Racial Justice recommendation to increase the number of physicians in the workforce from diverse communities.

Statistics:

• 75 students from Madison Middle School and Booker T. Washington Senior High School participated in the medical programs.
• 50 students from Madison Middle School participated in the Future Docs program.
• 25 students from Booker T. Washington Senior High School participated in the Health Careers Collaborative Program.
• $25,000 was awarded by the Miami Foundation to support the Health Careers Collaborative Program.

Sources:

• University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (2023)
• Joey Garcia, "Making a Difference in the Lives of Future Docs," University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (2023)
• Joey Garcia, "Health Careers Collaborative Program," University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (2023)