On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, UVM’s Student National Medical Association (SNMA) chapter sent six members off to New Orleans, Louisiana for the Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC). The SNMA, which supports underrepresented minorities in medicine, holds its national conference to bring in thousands of pre-medical and medical students, residents, attendings, as well as other medical professionals to cultivate professional development and personal growth through a series of workshops, programs, and regional meetings. The theme of this year’s AMEC, “From Pressure to Purpose: Illuminating the Path to Excellence” rang true for all the UVM students who attended AMEC. Here’s what they had to say about their experiences:
“My first AMEC experience was more than just a conference; it was a testament to the transformative power of shared experiences and genuine connections.” — Eunice Suberu, Class of 2027
Evelyn Thomas M1
Attending AMEC was truly transformative for me. Witnessing such a concentrated gathering of Black student doctors and physicians was incredibly powerful. I had the opportunity to network and connect with numerous inspiring individuals who are certain to influence my medical school journey. For instance, engaging with a resident in my desired specialty and hearing her unfiltered experiences reassured me that pursuing this path is both feasible and meaningful. Similarly, discussing the challenges and insights of navigating the surgical field with another Black woman was immensely informative.
AMEC reaffirmed for me that no aspect of medicine is beyond my reach. Attending lectures on LGBTQ+ Health and health equity further solidified my commitment to these areas in my future career. Witnessing professionals like the ENT surgeon deeply involved in health policy and equity was particularly reassuring; it showed me that one’s career in medicine can be multifaceted and impactful.
Moreover, forming connections with Black LGBTQ+ medical students was a highlight. We have established a group chat and are planning monthly check-ins. This deep sense of belonging and shared purpose is something I would not have discovered without the experience of AMEC.
Eunice Suberu, M1
My first AMEC experience was more than just a conference; it was a testament to the transformative power of shared experiences and genuine connections. Among the myriad of physician trainees that I met was Osose Oboh, who publicly shares her journey to
medical school on social media. I was especially inspired by her story when I was an undergraduate student grappling with my own aspirations and was reminded of my determination to pursue my dreams relentlessly following this conference.
Sulekha Kilas, M1
The sense of community at the SNMA Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC) was truly remarkable. All attendees were excited to connect, share insights, and support each other, whether it was in an educational session, networking event, or casual conversation in the hallways. Everywhere I turned, people were not just supportive, but genuinely proud of our collective achievements. It was a reminder of the journey and progress we’ve all made, instilling in me a renewed sense of motivation for the challenges ahead.
Claire Baptiste, M1
Since joining UVM, I’ve been exploring different specialties with an open mind and searching for mentorship at different levels. I’ve taken on different SIG roles focused on social justice, dermatology, and pipeline programming for URiM pre-medical students at UVM. Seeing experts with similar backgrounds at this conference was not only the motivation I needed at this point in my medical journey, but it also initiated partnerships and new mentorships that can help me reach my goals in medicine. Especially seeing people in the field of dermatology who resemble me was inspiring. I didn’t expect the AMEC experience to exceed my expectations and to have the chance to meet impressive leaders who share the same interests as me. I’m very grateful to have had the support from LCOM to attend.
Jake Ayisi, M1
During my time at AMEC, I gained invaluable insights into the organization’s national operations. This allowed me the opportunity to engage with leaders from various chapters and to explore diverse approaches to community impact. Conversations with these passionate individuals informed me of innovative methods and best practices, inspiring our chapter to address the needs of underserved communities more effectively. AMEC’s national platform facilitated a dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering collaboration and amplifying the collective impact of dedicated members nationwide.
