The State of Pathology Student Interest Groups in Allopathic and Osteopathic Medical Schools in the United States: Current Practices and Opportunities for Improvement.

Abstract

Context.—: With the gradual decline in pathology residency applicants during the past few decades, the successful recruitment of quality medical students into the field will rely on a multidimensional approach. One of the means by which medical students are exposed to and recruited into the field of pathology is through student interest groups (SIGs). Though SIGs have been cited as a successful method for recruitment, the strategies for running a successful SIG have not been fully explored.

Objective.—: To assess the functioning of pathology SIGs and provide a cross-sectional analysis of the challenges pathology SIGs face, what resources are needed, and how national organizations can most effectively support their functioning.

Design.—: A multi-institutional survey was developed and deployed in December 2023 via email to College of American Pathologists medical student members and Future Pathologist Champions.

Results.—: Of the 125 responses elicited from medical student members and Future Pathologist Champions, 78% (n = 97) indicated their institution had a pathology SIG. Faculty members were noted to be an important aspect to the SIG's success, especially by providing guidance and mentorship. Respondents also touted the regular hosting of events as another key component to success. Importantly, when asked about funding, most of the 78 respondents reported that their pathology SIGs relied on funding from their institution (58%; n = 45), but a large minority also received funding through grants/scholarships (36%; n = 28) or sponsorships from external organizations (28%; n = 22).

Conclusions.—: This study provides a first-of-its-kind quantitative and qualitative account of the establishment and maintenance of pathology SIGs from the personnel participating in their daily functioning.