Mizzou MedPrep: Diversifying the Playing Field University of Missouri School of Medicine (Mizzou Med) Andrea Simmons, MA; Robin Clay, M. Ed.; Rachel Brown, MD; Alison Martin, M. Ed.; Peter Wilden, PhD MedPrep I and II Over the past five years, the MedPrep I and II programs have served over 300 undergraduate juniors and seniors, medical school re-applicants, and our value-added groups. Data from 2011-2015 demonstrates that out of the 23 current medical school students who have participated in one or more MedPrep programs 18 are from value-added groups. 17 identified as non-traditional, 6 as SES disadvantaged, and 3 as rural. Some students identified in multiple value-added groups. Although, URM participation in MedPrep is steady from year to year with over 40 participants in 5 years, a goal for the program is to increase the number of highly competitive URM medical school applicants. Program Overview: The Mizzou MedPrep program, established in 2011, is designed to assist individuals in exploring health-care careers and assist those interested in applying to medical school with the application process. The workshops are developed for our value added groups which include: underrepresented in medicine (URM), socio-economically (SES) disadvantaged, those from rural areas, and non-traditional students. 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 SES Disadvantage Rural URM Non-Traditional Pre-Med Matriculates Value Added Groups SES Disadvantage Rural URM Non-Traditional Findings: • Program has assisted 23 students in obtaining admission to Mizzou Med. • Of the matriculates 83% were admitted within two years of participating in MedPrep. • Nine matriculates attended two or more of the MedPrep workshops. • URM MedPrep participants have not applied to Mizzou Med (only one applied and withdrew after acceptance). Diversified playing field: • Non-traditional students add value to the learning environment by previous careers, varying degrees, and life experiences. • Through surveys and interviews, participants improved and strengthen their application by additional experience, enhanced personal statement and interview practice. • Current matriculates have provided positive feedback related to their application. Future Plans: • Explore varying means to increase the rate of application and matriculation of URMs. • Medical Explorations – High school juniors and seniors explore various health-care professions. • MedPrep I – Participants gain insight into what makes a well-rounded and competitive applicant through various sessions. The workshop includes individualized one-on-one advising with a faculty/staff member. • MedPrep II – Participants gain insight into the AMCAS application process, personal statement review, explore the importance of strong letters of recommendation and participate in individual simulated interviews. • MedPrep III – Participants are newly admitted Mizzou medical students. The online workshop is composed of three primers designed to provide exposure and or review in the areas of biochemistry, cell physiology and pharmacology. “If I didn’t have Mizzou MedPrep, I would have given up on my dream to be a medical doctor.” J.P., M4 “MedPrep encouraged me to apply because I saw people in a similar situation, and I wasn’t the only non- traditional student.” S.L., M4