Engaging the Next Generation: Evaluating the Long-term Success of a Premedical Program in Cardiothoracic Surgery

Early exposure to surgical specialties positively influences students' perceptions of and interest in surgical careers, particularly at the preclinical and premedical stages. This study sought to evaluate the long-term academic and career impacts of a structured, short-term undergraduate elective in cardiothoracic (CT) surgery.

A retrospective study of participants who completed the Cardiothoracic Surgery Intersession (CTIS) program from 2003 to 2019 was conducted. Former participants were surveyed to assess perceptions of program impact on academic and career pursuits. Medical school matriculation and residency specialty data were obtained through the Association of American Medical Colleges database and an online search. Qualitative data were manually coded, and quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Sixty-eight undergraduates participated in the CTIS program; 66 (97%) subsequently matriculated to medical school. Of 61 participants who have entered residency, 24 (39%) pursued surgical specialties, and 5 (8%) pursued CT surgery specifically. Survey completion rate was 49% (33 of 68). Most respondents found operating room shadowing (97%), cardiac case conferences (73%), and suturing workshops (58%) particularly valuable program components. Additionally, 94% of respondents indicated the CTIS program was moderately, very, or extremely important in influencing their decision to pursue their long-term academic and career paths.

Structured, intensive early exposure programs in CT surgery meaningfully influence undergraduate students' long-term academic and career trajectories. Programs that integrate students into the day-to-day life of CT surgeons effectively attract talented students to CT surgery and medicine broadly, thereby addressing anticipated workforce challenges within the specialty.