Conducting and Publishing Research in UMPS
- Tess Sellers
- Aug 10, 2025
- 1 min read
Updated: Sep 5, 2025
Although UMPS has a research branch dedicated to helping students find research opportunities on campus, Aran and various members of UMPS saw another opportunity for research: gathering data from UMPS events, workshops, and clinics.
After gathering months of data from UMPS "Happy Weekends," a student-led clinical training initiative, Aran and other members assessed the preparedness and perceptions of pre-medical students engaged in the program.
The study investigates how barriers such as limited access to early clinical exposure, financial constraints, and lack of knowledge on pathways to medical preparation affect the confidence levels of underrepresented students in medicine when meeting the clinical and community service expectations of medical school admissions.
A qualitative and quantitative analysis was conducted on data gathered through pre- and post-intervention confidence scores and student interviews. There was no significant difference in confidence scores. However, students collectively expressed frustration with the inaccessible clinical experiences, lack of guidance and mentorship, and financial burdens. Despite these challenges, students also expressed how UMPS helped them gain a sense of community, guidance, and support.
The findings of the study suggest that while community-based interventions may not immediately alter self-assessed preparedness, they play a vital role in countering the exclusionary dynamics faced by underrepresented students.
Download and read the full study below:
Comments