The Medical Library as a Component of a Medical School Outreach Experience

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• The United States experiences a deficit of physicians serving minority and disadvantaged populations.
• Medical schools implement pipeline programs to encourage minority student enrollment in medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment and activities of the Brody RISE program at the Brody School of Medicine.
• To highlight the program's efforts in engaging minority students in STEM and medical fields.

Main Methods:

• The Brody RISE program recruited students from schools in Pitt County, North Carolina.
• Participants engaged in interactive Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) activities and campus tours.
• Laupus Health Sciences Librarians developed critical thinking exercises focused on anatomy and medical history.

Main Results:

• The program successfully engaged students through interactive STEM activities and library-led educational components.
• The Brody RISE program demonstrates a commitment to continuous evaluation and expansion.
• Partnerships, such as with Laupus Library, are integral to the program's ongoing success.

Conclusions:

• The Brody RISE program is an effective pipeline initiative addressing the need for greater physician diversity.
• Targeted recruitment and engaging activities can foster interest in medical careers among minority students.
• Collaborative efforts between medical schools and libraries are crucial for successful outreach programs.