November 30, 2023
By Edeline Sanchez

As a lead coordinator for the Alliance of Minority Physicians' "Cracking the Clerkships" series, I've had the privilege of playing a pivotal role in forging connections between Drexel and UPenn students. This pioneering collaboration marks the first year Drexel students have participated in this enriching series. Creating this bridge between institutions has been incredibly rewarding, particularly for underrepresented minorities in medicine. The space we've crafted serves as a vital community hub, fostering unity and camaraderie, regardless of the school attended.

The series not only provides a safe platform for open discussions about clerkship experiences but also highlights the shared challenges among underrepresented individuals in medicine. As a lead coordinator, I spearhead planning and lead specialty sessions. Guiding sessions like Family Medicine and Internal Medicine, where we welcomed esteemed panelist Dr. Leon McCrea, was an honor. Over 50 students, including Drexel students both in person and via Zoom, engaged in this session. We discussed strategies for success in clerkships, shared insights about useful apps and study resources and, most significantly, navigated the nuanced “hidden curriculum.” This allowed us to guide students on how to present their best selves during rotations.

Witnessing the success of this initiative, I'm thrilled about its growth trajectory. I am excited about expanding collaboration between Drexel and UPenn and the potential inclusion of other institutions like Jefferson and PCOM in the future. This expansion promises to further enrich the student experience, nurturing a more inclusive and supportive environment for aspiring medical professionals across institutions. The journey so far has been rewarding, and I eagerly look forward to the collective impact and growth this collaboration will achieve in the years to come.

 
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