Later is too late: Exploring student experiences of diversity and inclusion in medical school orientation

While there is increasing effort among medical schools to recruit diverse students, there is a paucity of research into the unique experiences of these students during their transition to medicine. This study explored how experiences during medical school orientation influence students' transition into the medical profession.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted (April-August 2019) with 16 first-year Canadian medical students. We applied descriptive thematic analysis using a constant comparative approach. Verbatim transcripts were coded and analyzed to elucidate themes.

Participants highlighted the importance of social orientation during their transition into medical school and noted experiencing complex social pressures during this time. They shared how incoming students were introduced to the dominant medical professional identity during orientation. Participants noted tensions during this period, many of which revolved around the dominant identity and their past, present and future selves.

Longstanding issues of diversity and inclusion in medicine manifest from day one of medical school. While orientation may be intended as a transition period to welcome students into the profession, it is a crucial period for medical schools to intentionally establish a commitment to an inclusive culture. Waiting to do so after identity formation has already begun is a missed opportunity.