• Obtain a faculty sponsor.
  
  
• Prepare a brief statement including the following information:
  The goals and objectives of the proposed group.
  The proposed groups expected target audience.
  The approximate number of students in the proposed group.
  The name of the faculty sponsor.
  Indicate type of funding. (i.e.: outside funding vs. requesting funding through the SBC for groups activities.
  
  
• Forward this statement to the SBC co-presidents and the office of Student Affairs (Judy Holewa and Lynn Desforges).
  
  
• The SBC co-presidents will review each request and respond accordingly.
  
  

As the administrative arm of the student government, we are a liaison between the students, faculty, and administration.  We are responsible for allocating the student activities fund that is collected as part of our tuition, for selecting students to represent our school on various school and hospital committees, as well as promoting a sense of unity between all schools here at UMass.  We collaborate with many student groups and work with the administration throughout the year on many issues from academic to fund raising.  We also plan events to enrich the medical school experience, such as a bowling night or a charity auction.  We are looking for five first-year students to be elected to this year’s committee.  The first year students will join the elected students from 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years, along with other representatives from the Graduate School of Nursing and from the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.  Please contact any second-year SBC member with questions you might have.  (Ali Irshad, Noah Rosenberg, Seth Curtis, Karen Bilmers or Annie Granfield).

 LIST OF STUDENT GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS:

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J K  M  O  P  Q  S  U W    top

 
A
Access to Essential Medicine Group
We are a student-led group dedicated to shaping university policy that will both improve access to essential medicines in the developing world and increase research into the diseases that predominantly affect people in poor countries.  Currently, we are working with UMass to encourage the university to make the discoveries of UMass researchers available in generic form in developing countries and to increase research on neglected disease.  We also aim to raise awareness of these issues among the students, faculty, and administrators of our community.  Our group represents the UMass chapter of a nation-wide movement, Universities Allied for Essential Medicines, which has the following mission: (1) to determine how universities can help ensure that biomedical end products, such as drugs, are made more accessible in poor countries and (2) to increase the amount of research conducted on neglected diseases, or those diseases predominantly affecting people who are too poor to constitute a market attractive to private-sector R&D investment. Student Contacts: Lara Jirmanus (lara.jirmanus@umassmed.edu) or - Julia Nelligan (julia.nelligan@umassmed.edu)    Faculty Advior: Mario Stevenson, PhD

Adolescent Medicine Interest Group (AMIG)
The Adolescent Medicine Interest Group (AMIG) allows interested students to learn skills to better serve the needs of adolescents.  Our goal is to introduce the field of adolescent medicine as a career option, as well as to supplement our medical knowledge in areas that are more focused toward teen patients. In particular, we aim to educate more about the medical needs of underserved adolescents, including how to adopt an interviewing style conducive to making connections with this group of patients.  We offer lunch talks about career options and issues in adolescent medicine, including eating disorders, teenage pregnancy, and adolescent sexuality.  In addition, students may sign up to shadow a physician that specializes in Adolescent Medicine to see first-hand the enjoyment and challenges that one may encounter in working with this patient population. In the past, AMIG has organized a weekly tutoring program for teen moms who are working towards their GED at the YWCA. Students are invited to come to as many or as few activities as they desire.  Student Contacts: Parag Goyal, Tim Lin Jen MacDonald, Sarah Jo Stimpson, Rob Surawski. Faculty Advisor: Diane Blake, MD

Akwaaba Health Initiative
The overriding goal of the Akwaaba Health Initiative is to enhance access to health care and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations in the city of Worcester, with a major emphasis on African immigrants and residents of the Vernon Hill neighborhood.  A major component of this effort will be the once-weekly Akwaaba free care clinic to be housed at the International Central Gospel Church on Harlem Street in Vernon Hill.  Student Contacts: Stefan Vanderweil, Brian Ferrara,  Jennifer MacDonald.  Faculty Advisor: Michael Ennis, MD
The specific objectives of the clinic include:

• To provide medical care and assessment for populations that are not presently receiving health care due to insurance and income problems, immigration status or actual and perceived cultural barriers.
• To connect these patients – and particularly those with chronic conditions - to continuous means of care outside of the clinic as soon as reasonably possible, in part by addressing concerns over the feasibility of accessing community health centers and primary care physicians.
• To emphasize the role of preventive care within these communities.
• To connect patients with already available social services that may be underutilized, including MassHealth.
• To involve members of the targeted population in the operation of the clinic as much as possible.
• To provide culturally competent care.
  

American Medical Student Association (AMSA)
AMSA is the American Medical Student Association, the largest independent association for physicians-in-training in the United States. AMSA’s philosophy is that it takes more than medical school to make a physician. Activities focus on Advocacy, Community and Public Health, Global Health, Humanistic Medicine, Health Policy, and Medical Education. AMSA offers students the opportunity to see medicine within the broader context of health care, and it gives students a forum to act on their interests in health care. AMSA has events on a monthly basis, and several opportunities exist for committee and project leadership. Student contacts: Matthew Germak (President), Caitlin Bonney  (Vice Presiden), Ryan Hirschfeld (Treasurer)  Faculty Advisor: Michele Pugnaire, MD

American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA)
Women in Medicine is the UMass chapter of the AMWA (American Medical Women’s Association). This is an organization which focuses on ways to advance women in medicine and improve women’s health. Its vision is to empower women to lead in improving health for all within a model that reflects the unique perspective of women. Official website: http://www.amwa-doc.org. Student Contacts: Student Contacts: Sandy Beverly, Jennifer Aborn. Faculty Advisors: Julie Pilitsis, MD

American Physican Scientists Association (APSA)
Core Purpose:  The American Physician Scientists Association is dedicated to career development and community building among
physician-scientists in training.  Mission:  The APSA strives to be the student physician-scientists' leading voice for improving educational opportunities,  advancing patient-oriented research, and advocating for the future of translational medicine.  Objectives:  Focusing on the needs of students and housestaff, including but not limited to MD/PhD trainees, APSA will pursue  being:

• The leading student organization for advancing opportunities for mentorship, community building, and mutual support of physician-scientists;
• The principal source for obtaining and disseminating career development information for student physician-scientists regarding education, residency training, and beyond;
• The most representative voice and influential advocate to policymakers and the American people regarding the need for supporting physician-scientist training;
• A dynamic organization that provides value to its members.
  

Members – open to all medical students at UMass.  Student Contact: Timothy Rooney. Facutly Advisor:  Gyongyi Szabo, MD

American Sign Language Group
The American Sign Language Group offers two levels of sign language classes each year. No experience is necessary to join. Classes meet once a week for an hour and all class materials are provided. This year, we have incorporated a couple of lunches discussing deaf culture with members of the Deaf community. Student Contacts: Caitlin Fogarty, Ciaran DellaFera.

Anesthesiology Interest Group
The Anesthesia Interest Group will serve to expose students earlier in their medical education to the field of anesthesia, which is underrepresented in the preclinical and clinical years.  This group will introduce this career option by holding a general interest meeting, arranging shadowing opportunities, teaching skills important to anesthesia such as intubation and IV placement, and informing students of meetings and other educational experiences.  Students of all years are encouraged to participate. Student Contacts: Rachel Androphy, Brent Borodic. Faculty Advisor: Robert Lee, MD

Asian Community Outreach Organization (ACOO)
Mission Statement: To serve the Asian communities in the greater Worcester area through health advocacy, community outreach and education. Description: We are a group of UMass medical students devoted to addressing the health care concerns of the local Asian population. We aim to educate ourselves and other health care providers/students about Asian cultural norms, social conditions, and racial differences that influence their experience with medicine. In addition we also aim to educate the local community and help address the health care concerns specific to this minority population by creating and implementing culturally and socially sensitive service projects for the Worcester Asian community. Student Contacts: David Wang and Ali Irshad.  Faculty Advisor: Danna Peterson, MD.

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B
Big Brothers, Big Sisters
Through a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters, mentors from UMass Medical School are now able to participate in one of two programs. Most students involved elect to participate in Big Brothers Big Sisters in Schools at the Belmont Community School, where they visit with their little sibling for 1-2 hours each week. Some students volunteer as Community-based Big Siblings, spending 4-6 hours each week with their little sibling. The goal of these visits is to establish a meaningful relationship with goals specific to that child’s needs. During a weekly visit, a child and a "Big" may play educational games, engage in recreational activities, or read a book together. You can begin the matching process at any time throughout the year - there are always students in need of a Big Sibling! If you are interested in this great opportunity and would like more information, contact Matt Ingham or Bonnie Vallie.

C
Center for Healthy Kids
The Center for Healthy Kids is a great opportunity to get involved with local school children and teach them about nutrition and fitness. Through a partnership with the Great Brook Valley housing project, UMass students have created the Center — a place for the kids to go after school, have a healthy snack, and learn about nutrition in their daily lives. We teach the kids about a variety of topics, including the food pyramid, serving sizes, healthy choices and fitness. This is also a good way to get a first hand understanding of the nutrition and activities challenges that may face your patients. This project is a perfect and easy way to balance out schoolwork by having fun with some great kids, and also provide a very valuable service to this community. There are also opportunities to get involved with tutoring, book reading and teaching yoga at the Center for Healthy Kids. Student contacts Noah Rosenberg, Kristy Webster,
Michelle St. Fleur.  Faculty advisor: Anthony Deross, MD.

Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA) 
Tying our religious faiths with the practice of medicine enhances the personal meaningfulness of our future profession. The UMMS chapter of the Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA) is an organization that explores the Christian faith and what it means to be a Christian doctor in contemporary society. We strive to become more educated and aware of the spiritual needs of all patients. In partnership with CMDA Boston, we hold events to discuss current ethical dilemmas, the role of faith and spirituality in medicine, and provide a community for those interested in exploring these issues. Weekly Bible Study, bimonthly fellowship outings, community service, guest speakers, the Winter Retreat, and more will be a part of this year’s CMDA activities. Our future plans include the August BBQ, July planning meetings/outings with CMDA Boston, and encouraging one another in faith. If you are interested in becoming involved or just learning more about us please contact Student Contacts: Rebecca Ackroyd or Anna Bingham.

Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Interest Group
The Complementary and Alternative Medicine Group brings together students who are interested in learning more about the diverse variety of modalities that are not currently pervasive within the realm of conventional medicine. Specifically, we aim to promote education and awareness on the major types of CAM, including whole medical systems, mind-body medicine, biologically based practices, manipulative and body-based practices and energy medicine. We offer presentations featuring local CAM practitioners, hands-on workshops to experience CAM practices, yoga classes and a CAM elective course open to both medical and nursing students in the fall semester. The student contact: Megan Furnari. Faculty advisors: Emily Ferrara and Anne Gilroy, MA

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D
Death and Dying Interest Group
The ‘Death and Dying Group’ was created to support students through what is often their first experiences with this difficult topic.  This is an open, student-led  group where they can share thoughts in a safe environment and can learn from each other.  Clinical years students are encouraged to share difficult experiences with their patients and “debrief” with other students who have had similar experiences.  Preclinical students are encouraged to come and benefit from learning what to expect and have an opportunity to ask questions and express fears prior to direct patient contact.   Resource lists will also be available through this group and student leaders will be available to help struggling students contact appropriate additional supports. Student Contact: Rachel Androphy. Faculty Advisor: Suzana Malowski, MD

Dermatology Interest Group (DIG)
Goals/Objectives: To provide an overview of the field of dermatology, the diseases dermatologists treat and to teach the basics of dermatologic exams, pertinent to all specialties of medicine. We are also starting many community service projects related to skin care, cancer prevention, and increasing access to dermatologists for the uninsured. Lastly, the DIG would serve as a reference for those interested in pursuing dermatology as a career, and would also function as a focal point for those not interested in dermatology as a career but in the field itself for both clinical and basic science research. Student Contacts: Micaela Bayard, Erik Domingues, Anita Tseng and Stefan Vanderweil. Faculty Advisor: Dori Goldberg, MD.

Disability Interest Group 
The disability interest group was formed with the primary goal of educating fellow medical students about disability-related issues that will be important in providing the best care possible to their future patients. Some of the areas that the group will focus on include the primary disability, secondary medical conditions relating to disability, access to health care and the socioeconomic impact of living with a disability. Through group discussions with members of the community of individuals living with disabili1ties as well as health care providers from relevant fields of medicine, the group aims to help students become more prepared for working with patients with disabilities, to provide students with information about resources available to individuals with disabilities, and to raise awareness and sensitivity to disability issues. Student Contacts: Jesse Foote, Michael Sirota, Anne Garrison.


Emergency Medicine Interest Group (EMIG)
The goal of EMIG is to introduce the student to the diversity of medical practices/concerns that exists within the realm of Emergency Medicine. This goal is achieved through a series of planned events and social gatherings for the medical student throughout the year; e.g. "Guest Speaker" presentation, hands on training etc. In addition to this, EMIG has a close relationship with the staff and residents of the Emergency Department (ED) at UMass. Through this relationship, an open invitation is extended for students who wish to attend "problem-based" lecture series generally scheduled for EM Residents. This invitation also includes a monthly Journal Club discussion where students can have dinner and interact with Residents to discuss a pre-selected journal article and the impact on medicine. In general, EMIG is dedicated to educate the students on the benefits and diversity of Emergency Medicine.  Student Contacts: Anne Granfield, Tim Porter, Anthony Regis, Brian Freniere.

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Epworth/St. Anne’s Free Clinics 
Ever wondered how long it will be between the time you enter medical school and the time you can actually make an impact on someone’s health? Come be a volunteer at one of the free care clinics and you’ll find out the answer: not very long! The Epworth and St. Anne’s Free Clinics offer medical services to the underserved and uninsured of the greater Worcester area. Founded by UMMS professor and family practitioner Paul Hart in 1994, the Epworth clinic is open to the public every Monday night from 6 to 8p.m. at the Epworth church on Lancaster Street in downtown Worcester. St. Anne’s is a free clinic that operates at St. Anne’s church just across Lake Quinsigamond in Shrewsbury every Tuesday night from 6-8pm under the direction of founder Dr. Clermont. While both clinics are staffed by volunteer physicians, physician’s assistants, nurses, and social workers, they rely mainly on the participation of medical students to help meet the enormous need for their services. Every student in the preclinical years has the opportunity to volunteer their time at one or both of these clinics. Aside from an opportunity to practice taking a patient history, performing portions of the physical exam, and doing phlebotomy, what keeps volunteers coming back is the experience of making an immediate difference in the lives of patients. In one evening you may see a variety of patient complaints ranging from headaches to minor muscle trauma to systemic or local infections, or patients trying to manage a variety of chronic diseases. You are guaranteed to learn something about the reality of our health care system! Come to our informational meetings in the fall or contact: St. Anne’s clinic: Tara Slavinski, Brett Carroll, Matt Tyler  or Epworth clinic:
Eben Lichtman, Ali Irshad ali.irshad@umassmed.edu.


F
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG)
The Family Medicine Interest Group (a.k.a. F-MIG) is dedicated to creating fun and informative activities centered around family medicine for all medical students. You may be certain that family practice is for you. You may want to be a specialist, or you may just be thankful you got into medical school! Nevertheless, you can benefit from attending the family medicine lunches and workshops. We give presentations on issues that every doctor should know something about—domestic violence, advocating for yourself and your patients, how to have a family and be a doctor. We wrap up each year with "Hands-On Night," where you will learn to draw blood, cast a leg, and suture a wound. Student Contacts: Callie Comtois, John (Matt) Ducey, Ciaran DellaFera, Jennifer Aborn.

Flu Shots
Under the supervision of nurses from the UMass Graduate School of Nursing, medical students provide free influenza vaccinations at local homeless shelters, neighborhood centers, free clinics, churches and low income housing developments. Student Contacts: Jeremy Robbins

G
Generalist Physician Program (GPP)
TThe  Medical School supports two second year students who provide leadership in the  promotion of generalism in medical education. During academic year 2008, the group will organize a variety of events that  further enhance students’ interest and appreciation for the complexity of  practicing medicine as generalists.  Many of these events will be co-sponsored  with other medical school student interest groups whenever the topics are of  mutual interest to both groups.  Monthly luncheon guest speakers, the annual Primary Care Dinner and special promotional events are examples of past planned activities.  The Generalist student leaders are also editors of the student newsletter which highlights notable medical student activities as  well as reflections on many facets of a UMMS student life.  Student Contacts: John (Matt) Ducey, Liz Herrup, or Jonathan Klaucke.

Geriatric Interest Group (GIG) 
One of the earliest missions of GIG was to expose students to active, healthy older adults before they begin their clinical years. That interaction is still considered invaluable because virtually all physicians, regardless of specialty, treat and care for older adults. Aging is a natural process, but modern medicine still has difficultly differentiating between those biological changes and pathological processes. GIG works to educate both nursing and medical students about healthy older adults, as well as the special needs of the elder population through a variety of activities including meetings, guest lecturers, student and faculty dinners, and shadowing programs. GIG is also very active in the community, providing hands-on opportunities for students to interact with older adults. Last year we organized blood pressure, memory, ear wax, and osteoporosis screenings at the Greendale YMCA, which sponsors an Active Older Adults program. Student Contacts: Romulo Celli, Alexandra Marchetta. Faculty advisor: Sarah McGee, MD.

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H
Health Professionals for Human Rights
The Health Professionals for Human Rights Group brings together first-and-second year medical students who share an interest in learning about and discussing human rights abuses occurring both in the US and throughout the world.  We work in close conjunction with the international advocacy organization, Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), which focuses on medicine-related issues (including quality and access) as they pertain to present-day human rights infringements.  We welcome new members who will join us in our bi-weekly meetings where we write letters on behalf of victims of human rights abuse and discuss pertinent issues of interest to group members.   Student Contacts: Caitlin Bonney, Erica Weston, Miaela Bayard, Rebecca Ackroyd.  Faculty Advisor: Mary Ellen Keough, MPH.


Health Policy and Advocacy Interest Group (HPAIG)
This group is dedicated to educating fellow medical students concerning recent issues regarding health care policy. Issues include but are not limited to access to health care, HMO’s, health care finance, the uninsured and quality of care. The group places a special emphasis on the needs of the underserved and advocating for these needs. By educating fellow medical students, this group hopes to broaden their knowledge regarding health care policy so that students can become physician-leaders, advocating for the needs of their community.

Hudson Free Clinic 
The Open Door Free Medical program in Hudson is a free clinic started by medical students who had participated in Portuguese language training through the International Education Program.  The clinic provides care to an area with a large Portuguese and Brazilian population and provides an opportunity for continued learning of Portuguese, including medical terms.  Fluency in Portuguese is not required as medical interpreters are available.  Clinic hours are 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Mondayshe Open Door Free Medical program in Hudson is a free clinic started by medical students who had participated in Portuguese language training through the International Education Program. The clinic provides care to an area with a large Portuguese and Brazilian population and provides an opportunity for continued learning of Portuguese, including medical terms. Fluency in Portuguese is not required as medical interpreters are available. Clinic hours are 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Mondays. Student Contact: Christian Klaucke.   Faculty Advisor: Mick Godkin, PhD (michael.godkin@umassmed.edu)

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I
IHI Open School for Health Professionals
The IHI Open School for Health Professions is an interprofessional educational community that gives students the skills to become change agents in health care improvement. The IHI Open School offers online courses written by world-renowned faculty; case studies, podcasts, videos, featured articles; a network of students; and, coming soon, certification to recognize student participation in online courses.(http://ihi.org/OpenSchool)   We aim to bring the resources of IHI to UMass to train students in quality improvement and to implement projects involving students to improve processes and outcomes here. Student Contact: Shira Fisch (Shira.Fischer@umassmed.edu). Faculty Advisor: Eric Dickson, MD

Internal Medicine Interest Group/American College of Physicians 
Ever wonder what internal medicine is really all about?  IMIG (or internal medicine interest group) offers an informal and collegial opportunity to learn about and discuss topics in the field of internal medicine.  Our aim is to promote internal medicine as a career by encouraging strong relationships with internal medicine practitioners, academic leaders, and fellow student organizations.  Explore the numerous subspecialties of internal medicine, listen to practitioners discuss interesting case studies, or learn how physicians face the dilemmas of practice while enjoying a relaxing guest-speaker lunch.  Partake in our casual panel discussions as different internists reveal the pros and cons of internal medicine, debate current socioeconomic problems in medicine, or give tips on applying for a residency in internal medicine.  In addition, we offer a chance to observe procedures in both the cardiac-catheterization lab or endoscopy unit.  UMass division of IMIG is part of the regional and national level of American College of Physicians (ACP).  Attend monthly meetings with fellow colleagues from across New England’s top medical schools and become involved with the current organizational issues of the American College of Physicians (ACP) Student Contacts:Jacob Kleinman, Angela Gordon, Sandy Beverly, Anna Plourde, and Laura Welsh.  Faculty Advisor, Mary Hawthorne, MD.

International Federation of Medical Student Association (IFMSA)
IFMSA is an international organization of medical students from around the world run entirely by students. IFMSA offers international opportunities for medical students including public health projects in developing countries, research opportunities abroad, and rotations abroad in a medical exchange program between medical schools. IFMSA hosts visiting students from other countries, raises funds for international emergencies and development projects, and conducts book drives for medical schools in developing or war-torn countries. The IFMSA National Conference offers an excellent opportunity to learn about current issues in International Health and meet other students from the U.S. and abroad interested in similar issues.

International Health Interest Group
The International Health Interest Group is for students who are interested in incorporating international health service into their career, or for those interested in global health issues and/or ethnic differences and beliefs of our future patients.  These issues include access to health care in developing nations, infectious diseases, malnutrition, political and environmental concerns, ethnic/cultural/religious beliefs around the world and ethical issues in medical practices abroad.  By sponsoring speakers, supporting experiences abroad, and organizing hands-on activities, students increase their awareness of current global issues, as well as health issues prevalent in the diverse communities of Worcester.  Some activities that we have done in the past include: Co-sponsoring AIDS Awareness in Africa week, during which we collected petitions for the Global AIDS Fund, collected toiletries for a local AIDS shelter, and made baby quilts for children who are born with HIV; Sponsoring lunch seminars on “Health Care Systems in Cuba” and “Introducing Multi-drug-resistant Tuberculosis Programs in Peru;” Organizing dinners to hear presentations from UMass physicians who have practiced abroad;  Sending students to International Health Medical Education Consortium (IHMEC) conferences.Student Contacts:  Jennifer Crombie, Seth Curtis, Anna Buabbud.

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J
Jewish Medical Student Association (Jewmass)
JewMass (also known as the Jewish Medical Student Association) serves primarily as a resource for UMass students to discuss and understand the difficult ethical issues confronting today’s physicians. JewMass-sponsored medical ethics lunches, open to all students, serve to further this end. Topics of discussion may include the Jewish perspective on death, abortion, stem cell research, organ transplantation, allocation of resources, euthanasia, and the right to refuse treatment. Additionally, JewMass seeks to develop a sense of Jewish communal, cultural, and religious identity thereby linking Jewish students at UMass to their heritage. In its efforts, JewMass will draw on Jewish communal resources in Worcester and in the greater Boston area. Student Contacts:  Sarah Gross (sarah.gross@umassmed.edu), Maurice Joyce (maurice.joyce@umassmed.edu), Daniel Schmolze (daniel.schmolze@umassmed.edu).  Faculty Advisor: Mitchell Cahan, MD.

Juvenile Health (JH)
The Juvenile Health Program is an opportunity for medical students to share their knowledge about health issues with teens at the nearby juvenile detention center. We have developed lesson plans covering topics such as STDs, HIV, condoms, and birth control. Education is essential for the health of our community and these teenagers really appreciate the opportunity to discuss issues and ask questions. Student Contacts: Stephanie Galica (Stephanie.galica@umassmed.edu) Nana Hagan (nana.hagan@umassmed.edu. Faculty Advisor: Michele Pugnaire MD.

K
Know Your Status-Worcester
This student-run program aims to enhance access to free, anonymous HIV testing, counseling and education in and around Worcester. Each semester, interested students are trained in testing and counseling at our community partner, AIDS Project Worcester (APW). After certification by APW, they provide this service at selected community sites, including free clinics, soup kitchens, shelters and substance abuse facilities. The project aims to reach populations identified as especially high-risk in the Worcester area, particularly IV-drug users and certain immigrant populations. In addition to test­ing and counseling, there are fundraising and epidemiological tasks to pursue. Student Contact: Bram Geller.   Faculty Advisor: Eric Garcia, MD.

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M
Malaika Project, IFMSA
The Malaika Project is a Village Project of the International Federation of Medical Students’ Association (IFMSA), an international medical student organization that promotes international health awareness among medical students through education, exchange, and activism, while fostering a spirit of international cooperation among medical students worldwide. Malaika Project is a multidisciplinary, student-run development project in rural Tanzania. At UMass, we assist through fundraising and supply drives, and by offering volunteer opportunities in Tanzania.

Marrow for Tomorrow
Marrow for Tomorrow is a student group committed to recruiting more donors, especially those of underrepresented populations, into national bone marrow registries. Our singular goal is to ensure that as many patients as possible receive the lifesaving bone marrow transplant they need. Among the group’s projects are an educational program at North High School and multiple bone marrow drives within the community. In addition, Marrow for Tomorrow has a grant to produce informational videos aimed at educating and recruiting bone marrow donors from Asian communities in Worcester and beyond. For more information about Marrow for Tomorrow. Faculty Advisor: Emily Ferrara.

Massachusetts Medical Society (MMS)
UMass provides strong representation in the Medical Student Section of the Massachusetts Medical Society (MassMed). MassMed is an organization for physicians, residents, and medical students in Massachusetts, and has ties to the American Medical Association (AMA), a national organization for political and lawmaking efforts. As the UMass chapter in the Medical Student Sections of these organizations, students have the opportunity to be involved at any or all levels - chapter, state, national. The purposes of this organization include education of students about health policy, informing students and the community about relevant changes to the health care system and its current state, implementing community health projects, and encouraging active participation in health policy. Examples of some events we have arranged at UMass include letter writing campaigns to state legislators and a presentation by a state senator on the state’s new healthcare reform. At the state level, students from all four Massachusetts medical schools meet monthly to discuss state and national health-related policy and legislative actions, as well as upcoming local, regional and national events. Students also have the opportunity to attend biannual AMA meetings to discuss national policy with medical students from across the country. For additional information contact Aaron Harman or Kevin Baratta. Faculty Advisor: Michele Pugnaire, MD.

Medical Interviewing in Spanish
Medical Interviewing in Spanish is an Optional Enrichment Program that gives students the opportunity to learn and practice medical Spanish.  The program was initiated by students, is currently run by students and administered through the Office of Medical Education.  Participants do not need to be fluent in Spanish.  There is no charge to individual participants, but attendance is required for students wishing to receive credit.  The course offers four structured learning activities for students: interviewing sessions with a standardized Spanish-speaking patient and medical interpreter, cultural awareness sessions, grammar reviews and shadowing members of the UMass Memorial Medical Center’s Office of Interpreter Services . Student Contact:  Shadi Miri or Ellie Butler.

Medical Mission to the Dominican Republic
This trip is part of the International Health Interest Group and the Rotoract Club.  It is an opportunity for students to provide medical services to Haitian immigrant workers in the Dominican Republic.  Students prepare for the trip during at the beginning of the school year by researching, fundraising, and collecting medications.  Students then spend Spring break in the Dominican Republic providing care through traveling clinics in the sugar cane plantations. For more information check out: <www.laromana.org>    Student COntacts: Vincent Miccio, Mary Lavoie, Brian Ferrera, Ciaran Della Ferra.  Faculty advisor: Michele Pugnaire,MD.

Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) - www.ms4c.org 
Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) is dedicated to ensuring that all women have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare.  MSFC recognizes that one of the greatest obstacles to safe and legal abortion is the absence of trained providers.  On a national level, we work to make reproductive health care, including abortion, a part of standard medical education and residency training.  Here at UMass, we seek to educate our student body about reproductive healthcare options, existing barriers to acquiring reproductive healthcare, and advocate for the right to reproductive healthcare here in Massachusetts.  Past MSFC activities have included shadowing at Planned Parenthood centers, visits from educational speakers, participative simulations of reproductive healthcare, and lunchtime discussion groups.    Student Contacts: Caitlin Bonney, Shannon Demas, Erica Holland, or Erica Weston.

Mentoring Program at Lakeview Elementary School 
The Mentoring Program is a collaborative with the Worcester Pipeline Initiative. We mentor sixth grade students for one hour every other week. Our meetings consist of all kinds of exciting science experiments, ranging from learning about composting to building flashlights to making earthquake proof towers out of toothpicks, marshmallows and straws. For additional information please visit; http://www.umassmed.edu/wpc/index.aspx

MOE (Mass Outdoor Experience)
MOE (UMass Outdoor Experience) starts the year with a wicked successful rafting /camping trip to Maine.  Each year, MOE  plans some day trips as well as overnight trips, and possibly a wilderness first aid course.  MOE is trying to negotiate reduced rates for group lift tickets to Wachusett Mountain and elsewhere.  Check out the Outing Club board near the OME for more details.    Student Contacts: Megan Weeks or Yaphet Tilahun. 

Mustard Seed 
Mustard Seed is a local soup kitchen that feeds dinner to 150-200 people.  Five times a semester, volunteers from UMass prepare and serve dinner.  Not only is cooking at Mustard Seed fun and rewarding, but it gives students an opportunity to become involved in the community in which we will soon be providing medical care. Students can volunteer to help with any number of dinners throughout the year.  The experience is greatly appreciated and also very rewarding.    Student Contacts: Asa Clememzi-Allen or Tim Porter.

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O

OB/GYN Interest Group
Goal: To encourage interest in OB/GYN and to provide opportunities for students to learn about women’s health issues.  The OB/GYN Interest Group is a new group with many plans for the future, including: OB Observation Program for first-and second-year students; Dinner and discussion about “Pursuing a Career in OB/GYN;” Workshop on “Applying for OB/GYN Residency Programs;” and Lunch seminars on a variety of women’s health issues.    Student Contacts: Mary Lavoie, Erin Habecker, Jen Crombie, or Elise LaFlamme. Faculty Advisor: Dawn Tasillo, MD 

P
Patches of Love
Patches of Love is a UMass student group, as well as a non-profit organization that collects handmade patches and puts them together into personalized quilts for international orphans. Students involved in the organization help in numerous ways including communicating with volunteers, fundraising, and trip planning - no quilting experience needed! Students will have an opportunity to travel to an orphanage abroad to deliver the quilts, medical supplies and provide medical care to members of the communitry, with supervision by an accompanying doctor. In the past, Patches of Love has traveled to South Korea, India, Guatemala, and Nicaragua and we are currently planning our 5th trip for spring break 2008. Please contact Julie Lee at julielee@umassmed.edu for more information or visit: www.patchesoflove.org.

Pathology Interest Group
Goals/Objectives: The UMass Pathology Interest Group would seek to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation for the field of Pathology through informational sessions and opportunities for direct exposure to the field.  Specifically, the group would accomplish these goals by offering shadowing opportunities, autopsy conference attendance opportunities, informal luncheons with faculty panels, and other yet-to-be-determined experiences to any interested medical student.  We feel these experiences would not only serve to help expose students to the field of Pathology but also serve as valuable clinical correlations to topics presented in class.  Our target audience would be primarily pre-clinical students (MSI and MSII) but clinical students (MSIII and MS IV) would be very welcome to participate in any activity the group offers.  We expect approximately fifty students to participate in any given Pathology Interest Group activity. Student Leaders: Anna Plourde and Rebecca Dedrick.  Faculty Advisor: Dr. Kenneth Rock, Chairman of the UMass Department of Pathology, would serve as the group’s faculty advisor.

Pediatric Book Buddies
The Pediatric Book Buddies Program for UMass medical students was started by Kristin Lynch ‘97.  The 1994-95 academic year was the first year of medical student participation in the “Book Buddies” program.  Students read to pediatric inpatients during either lunch time or evening hours.  Two short orientation sessions are held in the fall, attendance at both sessions is required for participation.  Following the second session students will sign up for hourly blocks according to their own schedules.  Participating students are encouraged to commit a minimum of one hour per month to the program, a greater commitment of time is up to the individual student.  Students interested in the program should attend an initial organizational meeting in the fall.  The two orientation sessions will be scheduled at that time.   Student Contact:  Linda Sinclair or Jeremy Robbins.

Pediatric Interest Group
The Pediatric Interest Group brings together students who are interested in learning more about the pediatric medical field.  We aim to have several informational lunches and dinners throughout the school year.  One of our main events in the fall is the pediatrics diabetic Halloween party.  We also currently offer a chance to participate in pediatrics “mini-rounds” with Dr. Gibson--students shadow Dr. Gibson as he introduces you to his patients and their medical conditions on the inpatient floor.    Jennifer Crombie, Elizabeth Herrup, Sarah Jackson, Callie Comtois or Caitlin Fogarty.

Physicians for Human Rights
Physicians for Human Rights is a group of students that works to promote awareness and activism for the protection of human rights.  Our motivations are rooted in learning about the health inequalities that develop from social, economic, and political injustices. Malnutrition, poverty, preventable death and suffering are all violations of basic human rights, and as a group we aim to discuss and advocate ways to eliminate these injustices through both action here at UMass and as physicians in the future.  We intend to attain the above objectives by inviting local physicians and human rights workers to the campus to participate in an ongoing lecture series enabling us to engage the UMMS and Worcester community in issues of health and human rights.  We will inform and involve the community on issues surrounding the HIV/AIDS epidemic through a day-long event in the fall and week-long event in the spring.  These events include speakers, films, information provided for patients, small group discussions and a lobby display.   We will help individuals get involved politically by running voter registration tables and educating voters on the issues that affect health and human rights.  We will also engage the students and faculty in a weekly conversation on health and human rights in order to encourage independent awareness and action surrounding these important issues.    Student Contact: Ryan Dono (ryan.dono@umassmed.edu),

Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR)
Physicians for Social Responsibility has three basic program areas: Environment and Health, Nuclear/Security, and Violence Prevention.  PSR shared the 1985 Nobel Peace Prize for its Nuclear/Security work.  PSR is a non-profit organization whose membership is made up of 20,000 doctors, nurses and other health professionals who care about making a difference in these areas, with a wide variety of personal involvement.  The UMass Student Chapter of PSR sponsors various educational luncheons and events taking advantage of the abundance of local physicians in Massachusetts who are intimately involved in both local and national PSR projects.  The focus of the UMass chapter is specifically tailored towards helping our students learn about both community and global health issues that affect their patients, and helping them to get involved, either through personal education or more active outreach.    Student Contact: Nick Miller  (nick.miller@umassmed.edu)

Psychiatry Interest Group
The Psychiatry Interest Group began two years ago as a way for students who are interested in potentially entering the field of psychiatry as well as those who are interested in exploring current topics in world of psychiatry to come together.  We have hosted faculty panels and lunches and will continue to do so as well as provide for faculty shadowing, group discussions, and speakers.    Student Contact: Jason Schweitzer and Rashad Hardaway.  Faculty Advisor: Devorah Field, MD.

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QMASS
An organization for straight supportive, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people at UMass.  We are student-driven with extensive collaboration with UMass staff and faculty. QMASS is the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) advocacy group at UMass.  The group strives to ensure that GLBT health is covered adequately and appropriately in the medical school curriculum and that UMass creates an open and accepting environment for GLBT healthcare professionals, researchers, staff, students, and patients.  We also seek to provide a supportive social network for GLBT people at UMass by publicizing local resources for GLBT people.  Our activities include collaborating with professors to integrate GLBT health issues into the medical school curriculum, and organizing events designed to educate and to raise awareness about healthcare issues specific to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) patients.  We are involved in community outreach, which includes speaking for PFLAG (Parents, Family, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).  We are part of their Safe Schools Program that is run through the Department of Education.  We are also involved with Safe Homes (an organization for troubled GLBT youth) and gay-straight alliances in the local high schools. Student Contacts: Ciaran DellaFera, Erin Habacker. Faculty Advisor: Emily Ferrara, MA.

Radiology Interest Group
The mission of the Radiology Interest Group is to foster the interest of pre-clinical medical students in the field of radiology.  It is our hope to educate participants about differences and similarities between various specialties in the field, as well as to provide members with a basis of knowledge in regards to issues facing the radiology community now and in the future.  We will also provide students with an understanding of the academic expectations and extracurricular achievements which should be pursued in order to obtain a residency position in the competitive field of radiology.  We hope to accomplish our mission through providing students with various opportunities such as seminars, workshops, and other experiential activities. Student Contact:    Kristopher Daley.  Faculty advisor: Joseph Makris, MD.

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Serving the Underserved
The objectives of Serving the Underserved are community outreach, service and education for traditionally underserved populations.  Our goal is to provide useful and meaningful services in the local community while supplementing our own medical and ethical goals. Through these proposed programs, we endeavor to form a liaison between the students and the community. Our hope is that this exposure will guide a significant number of students toward active roles in the community, both now and in the future as physicians. The following groups come under the umbrella of Serving the Underserved: Mustard Seed, Flu Shots, Free Clinics, Food/Clothing/Gift Drives. For additional information please contact Matthew Ingham.

Seven Hills Symphony
The mission of the Seven Hills Symphony at UMass Medical School is to offer a creative outlet for health professionals and students, to contribute culturally to the community by providing classical music performances for medical center patients and staff, and to help raise funds for medical center patients and staff.  The orchestra performs a varied repertoire under the leadership of a professional conductor.  Multiple performance opportunities are available yearly in orchestral and chamber music settings.  We will strive to create a non-competitive, non-threatening musical environment that is welcoming to musicians with a wide range of skill levels.  Website: www.shsymphony.org.  Student Contacts:   Joanna Chaurette, President,  Elizabeth Portnoy, Vice President , Walter Kim/Adonia Lee,  Secretary.  Faculty Advisor: Stephen Heard, MD. Website: www.shsymphony.org.

SideKicks, Umass Medical School Student Sidecicks
SIDEKICKS seeks to establish formal, longitudinal connections between medical students and pediatric hematology and oncology patients, encouraging relationships between people facing -  either directly or indirectly - the moving trials of serious illness by offering support, perspective and mentorship in and outside the context of formal medical treatment.  While the program is intended primarily to provide support and companionship for families burdened with illness, it is also meant as an avenue for exposing medical students to the complex issues of illness and care giving.  The questions and ideas that emerge from this service in the community will be used to inspire rigorous discussion within the group, and illuminate important issues surrounding care for the ill, both through primary experience, and exposure to related literature in the sciences and humanities    Student Contacts: Joel Bradley and Shaun Dean. Faculty Advisor: Naheed Usmani, MD. 

Student Interest Group in Neurology   (SIGN)
Goals and objectives: To provide a forum for medical students to learn more about careers in neurology and subspecialties of neurology through a series of lunchtime lectures. To foster medical student interest in neurology by providing students with opportunities to interact with faculty and other students considering a career in neurology. To provide medical students the opportunity to develop experience, leadership and valuable contacts. William Tosches, MD and Ann Mitchell, MD.

Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
SNMA Mission Statement: “Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent and socially conscious physicians.”  At UMass, SNMA coordinates refugee tutoring, in which UMass students tutor middle and high school students in Worcester; science hands-on night, which gives local students a chance to experience medical school for a night; a pediatric halloween party, thrown for children with diabetes; MAPS, the Minority Association of Premedical Students; as well as other activities.    Student Contacts: Micaela Bayaard or Rashad Hardaway. Faculty Advisor: Danna Peterson, MD.

Surgery Interest Group 
The Surgery Interest Group was founded in 2001 to familiarize UMass medical students with the exciting field of surgery.  Working  closely with the Dept. of Surgery, SIG enables medical students to gain a greater understanding of surgery through a broad variety of  programs, from interactive workshops to shadowing in the OR.  Events sponsored by SIG in the past included lunch seminars with UMass Memorial surgeons; discussion topics such as the training and lifestyle of a surgeon and exciting new technologies in surgery; laparoscopic workshop; workshop on applying for a surgery residency; shadowing in the OR; and Surgical Advisor program.   Student Contacts:  Jason Wiseman or Anthony Burrows.

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Well Being Newspaper, The
The Well Being is a student-run newspaper that brings preventive medical information to underserved patients in the Worcester area. The newspaper is published in English, Spanish and Portuguese and is free of charge. There are a number of ways to contribute to the paper including several leadership positions, such as Distribution Manager, Community Resource Coordinator, and specialized Editor and Correspondent positions (e.g. Physical Activity & Obesity Editor). The newspaper is a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort by medical students, physicians, UMMS faculty, allied health professions students and providers, health and social service agencies, and community members. It’s a great opportunity to get to know the public health landscape in Worcester and to work with a diverse team of people in addressing the needs of Worcester’s underserved patients. All are welcome.

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Rev 9/17/09