Message from the Executive Director

Moving Forward in Partnership

I wanted to take this time in our Fall 2023 newsletter to welcome everyone back to a new school year. I have always loved the promise and possibility of this season and Fall 2023 is especially meaningful as we embark on the second year of the California Medicine Scholars Program (CMSP).

Our September newsletter provides updates on Year One of CMSP, where our Regional Hubs reached over 1,000 students through recruitment efforts. We’re also proud to have enrolled a majority of underrepresented and first-generation students as the inaugural CMSP cohort. And, most exciting, we secured an ongoing annual funding appropriation from the California state budget that helps ensure long-term program sustainability for the four regional hubs. 

As we look forward to this upcoming academic year and Year Two of the program, we embrace new changes. The California Community Colleges recently welcomed a new Chancellor, Dr. Sonya Christian — the first woman and woman of color to hold this position. Chancellor Christian recently unveiled  Vision 2030, where she emphasizes equity and access, two core values of CMSP.  We are hopeful that we will grow as a program in our reach and impact in alignment with this vision and as we continue to operate as a program of the Foundation for California Community Colleges.

In my time with CMSP, I have been fortunate to connect with many students and have heard their stories first-hand. For many, seeing an individual who looks like them achieve an MD, PhD, or Master’s degree has made all the difference – they’re able to see themselves, their family members, and their experiences represented at our workshops and recruitment events. That’s a life-changing experience which signals that higher education and an advanced degree are possible.

In small ways and big ways, and by telling our stories, we make a significant impact on all the students we reach and I’m grateful for all who participate in and support this work.  I’m confident that the students, program staff, and faculty of the California Medicine Scholars Program will continue to be innovators and trailblazers. 

A Glimpse Inside Student-Centered Engagement

During the 2022-2023 academic year, scholars at each of the regional hubs engaged in a wide range of activities designed to help them navigate the pathway to medical school and introduce them to experiences related to a career in medicine. Similarly, as part of this academic year, scholars from both cohorts will take part in an array of activities and experiences intended to introduce them to the world of medicine.

Recruitment for the next cohort began in early July. Each of the hubs are providing various informational sessions, webinars, and tabling events at their community college partner sites. In addition, hubs are asking scholars to serve as ambassadors of the program to spread awareness and share information. With a new cohort of scholars who are just entering community college, along with scholars from the first cohort who are entering their second year of community college or beginning their journey at a four-year university, we are thrilled about the growing community that is being developed at the California Medicine Scholars Program.  

Below, we provide a recent highlight from each regional hub:

CMSP Mini-Conference

Thank you to all those who participated in our inaugural CMSP Mini-Conference on August 14 and 15. The event, coordinated by Jessica Garcia, CMSP Program Specialist, featured a diverse and esteemed lineup of guest speakers. A variety of topics related to the California Medicine Scholars Program were discussed, including outreach, recruitment, advising, and student support resources. 

Our gratitude is also extended to the guest speakers, Dr. John Matsui, Julieta Aramburo, Carla Velasquez, Lesley Bonds, Symone McDaniels, Cindy Sanchez, Alonso Garcia, Dr. Rene Lozano, and our CMSP colleague, Sos Nazaryan, for generously sharing their expertise.

physician was guided by Dr. Stockwell's support.

Under Dr. Stockwell’s guidance, Chinemerem discovered the transformative Future Physician Leaders Program at UC Riverside School of Medicine, which led him to CSMP. Her unwavering advocacy secured a compelling recommendation, aiding his acceptance into the program. Excited about CMSP's diverse opportunities, from research to mentorship, he's eager to connect with fellow scholars who share his medical passion. As a first-generation college student born abroad, Chinemerem's journey reflects resilience and a determination to inspire others. His story, a testament to mentorship's impact, positions him as a standout within the CMSP community, inspiring future medical scholars.
 

his ambitious past and a desire to empower scholars' growth.

Sedtavut's dedication is evident in his involvement with the California Medicine Scholars Program. He envisions scholars contributing to the community and has personally committed to mentorship and resource provision. Additionally, he is engaged in pulmonary and medical education research, initially starting as a volunteer and now working towards entering medical school.
 

CMSP Events and Workshops for Students

In this section, we provide a summary of recent and upcoming CMSP events and workshops.

Recent Events and Workshops

Scholarship Bootcamp Part 2 - July 10, 2023
CMSP scholars had the privilege of gaining insights from Marianne Ragins, a bestselling author and scholarship recipient of over $40,000, who guided them in creating standout essays. Ragins' expertise helped participants understand the qualities that impress competitive selection committees, identify their unique strengths from activities and jobs, and master the art of crafting personal statements.

CMSP Statewide Social - August 8, 2023
The CMSP Central Office provided CMSP scholars with a dynamic opportunity to connect with other scholars from across the state. Attendees had the chance to forge connections, exchange ideas, and establish enduring relationships. Through interactive activities and group discussions, participants gained insights into each other's interests and viewpoints, fostering a sense of camaraderie that will resonate well after the session's conclusion. Engaging with fellow California medical scholars enriched the experience with personal and professional benefits, enhancing their collective journey through medical school.

Campus Connection: Navigating College - September 5, 2023
CMPS scholars were able to gain insights, from academic expectations to student life, and explore valuable resources, both on and off-campus. They received practical success tips spanning time management, study skills, and student engagement. They also gained a comprehensive understanding of the college experience and access to the tools needed for a successful academic journey. 

View the full event recording > 

Upcoming Events and Workshops for Students

Please help us spread the word about upcoming events by sharing them with students. For more information and to stay updated, please follow the California Medicine Scholars Program on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. 

September 29, 2023, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
A Path to Practice: Medical Student Speaker Series featuring Mario Eusebio
Join us for an inspiring evening with our next featured speaker, Mario Eusebio. Born in the Philippines and now a dedicated medical student at UCLA DGSOM's PRIME program, Mario's journey exemplifies resilience and determination. From community college to university to medical school, Mario's story is a testament to his hard work. During his community college years, he embraced the challenges, working multiple jobs while excelling in rigorous science courses. His transfer to Cal introduced him to various opportunities, including internships, peer advising, and program coordination, leaving a mark on the Biology Scholars Program and TransferMD at UC Berkeley.

Register here > 

October 5, 2023, 1 - 2:00 p.m.
A Path to Practice: Medical Student Speaker Series featuring
Jonathan Ogbogu
Discover the incredible journey of Jonathan Ogbogu, a dedicated first-year medical student at UC Riverside School of Medicine. Having earned his bachelor's degree in Biology from UC Riverside (UCR), Jonathan's dedication extended beyond his own academic pursuits. He served as a peer mentor for ten undergraduate students in UCR's Medical Scholars Program, guiding and inspiring the next generation of aspiring medical professionals. Join us for this workshop, where Jonathan will share the lessons and experiences that have defined his journey to medical school, leaving you inspired and ready to embark on your path to success.

Register here >​​​​

October 11, 2023, 1 - 2:00 p.m.
Building a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
This workshop is designed for community college students seeking employment and/or internship opportunities. Participants will learn the essentials of resume and cover letter writing, including what employers look for, tailoring materials for specific job postings, and common mistakes to avoid. Participants will leave with the skills and knowledge to create compelling and effective job application materials. This workshop is a valuable opportunity for community college students to gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Register here > 

November 13, 2023, 1 - 2:00 p.m.
Navigating the Interview
"Navigating the Interview: A Community College Guide" is a workshop that teaches students how to prepare for job and internship interviews. Participants will learn about the interview process, making a strong first impression, answering common interview questions, and avoiding common mistakes. By the end of the workshop, students will have a clear understanding of what to expect in an interview, how to present themselves, and how to communicate their qualifications and experiences effectively. This workshop is a valuable opportunity for community college students to gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the job and internship search process.

Register here > 

Pictured: Scholars at the UCSF Fresno Orientation Day

Other Resources to Share with Students

CMSP has curated a collection of valuable resources that can support students on their journey to medical school. We encourage you to share these resources with students.  

First Gen Fellowship: National First Gen Alliance is seeking to provide assistance to first-generation college students who struggle with meeting basic needs and expenses while attending college that can potentially affect the college experience. They will be awarding ten (10) grants of $1000 to current first-gen college or university students, to be announced on National First Gen Day 2023 (Wednesday, November 8, 2023). These are unrestricted grants to be used at the discretion of each Fellow. The deadline for applications is October 6, 2023.

First Gen Fellowship Application and Criteria

California Virtual Campus (CVC): Provides a comprehensive online resource that assists community college students by offering access to a wide array of online courses and support services, enabling flexible learning and enhancing educational opportunities.

California Virtual Campus Link

Research and Data 

Research, data, and evaluation are important to the California Medicine Scholars Program to ensure that we are not only capturing the successes of this program but also continuing to improve based on current information. 

Research Spotlight 

Factors and Barriers That Influence the Matriculation of Underrepresented Students in Medicine
For this 2023 article, the authors conducted a literature review that covered three decades of research related to barriers and protective factors that underrepresented medical school applicants and matriculants experience. Along with thoroughly studied barriers such as financial considerations and lack of healthcare experience opportunities, the authors also discuss psychological and sociocultural factors that influence these students’ academic journeys. 

Improving College Access and Success through Dual Enrollment
Beyond providing a useful description of the current dual enrollment landscape in California, this recent report from the Public Policy Institute of California also examines how dual enrollment is impacting transferring and degree completion. While Latino and Black dual enrollment students do better on a range of outcomes than their Latino and Black counterparts who did not participate in any dual enrollment, gaps between students from different racial/ethnic groups require additional consideration. 

Making Allyship Visible: Evaluation of a Faculty Development DEI Curriculum
This 2023 article explores an intervention at a U.S. medical school designed to help faculty better support medical students from historically marginalized groups. Key lessons that the evaluation revealed included (1) the significance of centering the lived experiences and voices of historically marginalized students, (2) integrating practices into the curriculum that address concerns about the intervention being performative, and (3) beginning with a willing group of learners to catalyze community and culture change. Ninety-one percent of respondents reported that the Faculty Allyship Curriculum (FAC) impacted their teaching practice somewhat or to a great extent.

In the News

In case you missed them, the following links highlight our work: 

• UCSF Fresno News: California Invests in Medical Scholars Program including a Pathway at UCSF Fresno

• UC San Diego Today: California Medicine Scholars Program Encourages Community College Students to Pursue Medicine

To learn more about the California Medicine Scholars Program, please visit our website. For more information contact us at: info@california-medicine.org.