AAPI’s MSRF & PreMed Summit: Shaping Future Medical Leaders

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) recently held its annual Medical Students, Residents, and Fellows (MSRF) & PreMed Medical Scholars Summit at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, from January 25 to 26, 2025. This event brought together over 100 participants, including high school students, pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and residents, all eager to advance their medical careers.

Leadership and Organization

The summit was meticulously organized by the MSRF Executive Board, led by President Priya Uppal, President-Elect Priyanka Kolli, Vice President Sohi Mistry, Treasurer Priyal Shah, and Secretary Drishti Patel. Their collaborative efforts ensured a comprehensive and enriching experience for all attendees.

Diverse and Insightful Sessions

The two-day summit featured a variety of interactive academic sessions designed to provide participants with valuable insights into the medical field. Highlights included:

• Residency and Fellowship Panels: Attendees engaged directly with program directors from various surgical and non-surgical specialties, gaining firsthand knowledge about different medical paths.
• Medical School Admissions Q&A: The Dean of Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University addressed questions, offering guidance on the admissions process and what medical schools seek in applicants.
• MCAT Success Strategies: A high scorer shared effective study techniques and strategies to excel in the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), providing attendees with tools to enhance their preparation.

These sessions were designed to be interactive, allowing participants to actively engage in discussions and deepen their understanding of various medical career paths.

Encouraging Early Engagement

Notably, the summit welcomed high school students, encouraging them to embark on their pre-medical journeys early. This inclusion aimed to inspire young scholars to consider careers in medicine and provided them with early exposure to the field.

Research Symposium

A significant component of the summit was the research symposium, which featured oral and poster presentations across various medical topics. Participants showcased cutting-edge research, receiving constructive feedback from AAPI judges. This platform not only highlighted innovative work but also emphasized the importance of research in medical education and practice.

Expert-Led Workshops

The summit offered a range of workshops led by experts in various medical fields:

• Leadership in Medicine: Dr. Mihir Gupta discussed the qualities and skills necessary for effective leadership within the medical community.
• Public Health Practice: Dr. Jaya Satagopan explored the role of public health in medicine, emphasizing preventive care and community health initiatives.
• Novel Technologies in Orthopedic Surgery: Dr. Selene Parekh provided insights into the latest advancements in orthopedic surgical techniques and technologies.
• Functional Medicine: Drs. Subbarao Bollepalli and Chanakya Bavishi highlighted holistic approaches to patient care, focusing on the root causes of diseases.
• Financial Wellness: Deepen Modi offered guidance on managing finances effectively throughout a medical career.
• Service Projects and Global Medicine: Drs. Samir Pancholy and Kumar Belani discussed the importance of service in medicine and the opportunities and challenges of global medical practice.

These workshops provided attendees with a well-rounded perspective on various aspects of the medical profession.

Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

The summit emphasized the importance of mentorship and networking in medical careers. A mentorship and networking lunch allowed participants to connect with experienced professionals, fostering relationships that could guide their future endeavors.

Organizational Support

AAPI’s MSRF serves as a national organization representing medical, dental, and podiatry students and resident physicians of Indian origin in North America. It aims to provide a channel for networking, support, and open communication among its members. The success of this summit underscores AAPI’s commitment to supporting the next generation of medical professionals.