University Times

Pitt is one of four universities participating in the AspiringDocs.org campaign, a pilot program of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) designed to attract more diverse physicians who can serve the growing health needs of culturally diverse communities.

The pilot program is being conducted at Pitt, Rutgers University, California State University-Fresno and the University of Arizona. Each school has a large percentage of underrepresented undergraduate biology majors with fewer students than expected applying for and attending medical school.

At the end of two years, the AAMC will assess how the campaigns have helped increase the number of minority students who apply to and enroll in medical school.

The campaign’s centerpiece is its web site, containing comprehensive information about key topics that students in focus groups deemed important. The site will feature an online community for aspiring doctors where they can ask questions and receive advice from the AAMC and other experts.

The campaign also is designed to inspire students with real-life stories of practicing minority physicians and medical students.

March 25 will be “Aspiring Docs Day” at Pitt. From 4 to 6 p.m. in the William Pitt Union Assembly Room, School of Medicine staff, faculty and students will discuss their experiences.

For additional information about the campaign, visit www.aspiringdocs.org.