RUSH Medical College offers several mentorship opportunities for current and future medical professionals at all stages of their educational journeys.
For Students
Student to Resident Institutional Vehicle for Excellence (STRIVE)
The Student to Resident Institutional Vehicle for Excellence (STRIVE) was established to support underrepresented minority (URM) medical students. RUSH recognizes support for URM trainees can make a huge difference and come in many different forms. The STRIVE program provides a safe space for learning in collaboration with residents and fellows at RUSH. STRIVE offers academic, social, and professional support while equipping students with examples of resilience, a community to discuss implicit bias and strategies to address the burdens of medical training.
Together We Thrive
Founded in 2020, Together We Thrive is a program that aims to address the unique concerns and needs of first-generation medical students. This group is unique in that while it is an affinity group, the constituents of this group come from all backgrounds and identities. This initiative promises to appreciate you as a holistic individual and recognizes the potential of what you have to offer in the medical setting.
Hear from medical student Jordan Cisneros about his experience finding community with other first-generation medical students, which inspired the Together We Thrive program.
Building Blocks
Building Blocks is a mentorship program in partnership with Richard T. Crane Medical Preparatory High School located on the Near West Side of Chicago. Building Blocks teaches high school students about careers in medicine and allows them to shadow physicians in the Department of Pediatrics at RUSH University Medical Center. The program is a unique blend of community service activities, monthly didactics, clinical immersion and mentorship from medical students and physicians. Learn more.
Mini Medical School
Focused on hands-on learning experiences, the RUSH Mini Medical School helps fourth- and fifth-grade students develop critical-thinking skills while making connections with mentors and role models. The program is a great way for students to learn what it means to be a health care provider. RUSH University offers this Saturday enrichment program each academic year to students from the neighborhoods around RUSH at no cost. Learn more.
House Staff Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee
The House Staff Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is a resident-run group whose purpose is to enhance the ability of RUSH University Medical Center house staff to address Chicago’s diverse patient population.
For Faculty
Faculty Development and Mentorship Program
The URM Faculty Development Program is an individualized longitudinal program delivered through a series of short online modules and one-on-one mentoring from senior faculty. It is designed to serve the career needs of RUSH Medical College underrepresented minority faculty at the early and mid-career levels. Learn more