FAQ

Can only MS-Y1 students apply?

• Yes, the MedStAR program is for MS-Y1 students only. Students apply during their first autumn quarter of medical school. The MedStAR program provides additional support and resources for students to satisfy their III requirement alongside having guided research and clinical mentorship throughout the remainder of their medical school training.

Do I have to have past research experience to apply?

• The goal of the MedStAR program is to educate medical students on conducting clinical research within addiction medicine. Our program faculty, mentors, staff and guest lecturers realize that not many medical students have had such exposure and are ready and able to provide their guidance and expertise to help students learn.

After I present at the SOM III Fall Poster session following the completion of the summer block, am I required to continue to participate in the MedStAR program?

• Yes, presenting at your Foundation site’s poster session is just the start to sharing your research findings. The MedStAR program and your mentoring team are here to help you further disseminate your findings at regional or national addiction-related conferences. Additionally, we are prepared to help you publish your findings in a peer-reviewed Journal article.

Is the program and the summer block offered virtually/remotely?

• If students from non-Seattle Foundation sites wish to spend the summer in Seattle they may apply for travel stipends offered by UWSOM III.

What is Addiction Medicine?

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines Addiction Medicine (ADM) as “a recognized physician subspecialty of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Credentialed ADM subspecialists serve as clinical experts, faculty, teachers, researchers and change agents. They provide prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment services for patients with unhealthy substance use or substance-related health conditions. ADM physicians also help family members who are affected by a loved one’s substance use or addiction.” For further information please follow this link.

How many mentors will I have?

• The program will assign two mentors who share your clinical and research interests. Your clinical mentor will help provide clinical guidance and professional support throughout medical school training. Your research mentor will help you create and conduct a research project and then provide assistance and guidance to publish and present your research findings. In addition to your mentors you will receive the support of a research methods coach, a writing coach and a data analyst (should your project need).

Am I required to register for SOM III program in order to participate and receive credit?

• Student must register and enroll to receive summer credit and to satisfy UWSOM III program requirements. Students will enroll in the summer quarter by registering for the UWSOM course MEDSCI501 (6 credits). Students will also need to enroll in the MEDSCI503 course (1 credit) in their second year autumn quarter.