Enhancing Nephrology Career Interest through the ASN Kidney TREKS Program

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Medical Education
• Physiology

Background:

• The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) Workforce Committee developed the Kidney Tutored Research and Education for Kidney Students (TREKS) Program.
• The program aims to engage medical and graduate students in the field of nephrology.
• There is a need to foster interest in nephrology careers among trainees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the TREKS Program in increasing student interest in nephrology.
• To assess student satisfaction with program components, including the educational course and mentorship.
• To establish a baseline for future long-term tracking of program impact.

Main Methods:

• The TREKS Program includes a weeklong introductory course on renal physiology.
• Participants are matched with nephrology mentors at their home institutions.
• Students are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities and attend ASN Kidney Week.

Main Results:

• After three years and 84 participants, survey data indicate positive program outcomes.
• A self-reported 40% increase in interest in nephrology fellowship and/or research careers was observed.
• Students provided high ratings for the course content and mentor pairings.

Conclusions:

• The TREKS Program demonstrates early success in stimulating student interest in nephrology.
• The program's structure, combining education and mentorship, appears effective.
• Long-term follow-up is recommended to confirm sustained impact on career choices.