Michigan Urology Academy (MUA)

While the field of Urology has made tremendous strides over the past two decades, increasing diversity among medical students entering Urology, particularly among underrepresented minorities and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, continues to be a challenge. In an effort to avail all medical students, of any race or background, of the field of Urology, potential professional trajectories and the logistics of application, we are introducing the Michigan Urology Academy.

Program Overview

The Michigan Urology Academy provides an opportunity for all medical students who are interested in Urology to gain additional exposure to the field and increase preparedness for applying to Urology residency.  Students will be introduced to residency application strategies and logistics, interview tips and tricks, career trajectory options and ways to control application costs. In addition, current Urology trainees and faculty, including those who are from groups currently underrepresented in the field, will share their experiences about working in Urology and medicine. Michigan Urology Academy faculty will include participants from the University of Michigan as well as other institutions. 

All interested applicants, including underrepresented minorities and/or those from medical schools without a formal Urology training program, are strongly encouraged to apply. All travel/lodging/meal expenses will be covered. 

Program Agenda

Held on June 13, 2020, the Department of Urology held the 1st Annual Michigan Urology Academy (MUA) for over 60 medical students from 49 different medical schools. The goal of the MUA is to increase diversity of the urologic workforce through improved opportunity and access for all. Many shared their personal stories and reflections on their journey in medicine including Drs. Gifty Kwakye, Assistant Professor of Surgery, University of Michigan; David Brown, Associate Vice President and Associate Dean for Health Equity and Inclusion; Marcia Perry, Assistant Professor, Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan; Valerie Valbuena, General Surgery Resident, University of Michigan; Randy Vince, Clinical Lecturer, Department of Urology, University of Michigan; Carol Bradford, Executive Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Medical School, University of Michigan and Cheryl Lee, Chair, Department of Urology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Discussions during the breakout sessions covered how to apply/interview in urology and how to deal with micro-aggressions in the workplace, among other topics.

To view the videos for the meeting click below:

Michigan Urology Academy - June 13, 2020

Michigan Urology Academy - M1/M2 Breakout Session

 

Application Process

Eligibility

  • US Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Current student in an accredited medical school in the US, Canada or Caribbean
  • Curiosity/Interest in Urology

Application Instructions

  • Complete the Program Application
  • Submit your CV
  • Submit your unofficial transcript
  • Submit a personal statement reflecting your training trajectory to date. Include any information regarding previous experience working in organizations that address health inequalities, living in a community or area adversely affected by health inequalities, or personal experience with health inequalities. (300 word limit)
  • Submit your thoughts on the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in urology and how you hope to contribute to this area. (300 word limit)

 

If you have any questions about eligibility or wish to apply, please contact Aprill White at 734-936-5801 or aprillbw@med.umich.edu. 

 

Deadline for submission of the application will be April 1, 2020.