1. Program History
In 2006, the need for an improved applicant interview
experience was noted by fourth year medical students
who were serving on the Admissions Committee. Two of
the students served as student ambassadors at their
undergraduate institution and believed an ambassador
program would have positive impact on applicants at the
University of Missouri School of Medicine. At the
inception, the organization lacked a budget. Ambassadors
purchased their own polo shirts with the Student
Ambassador logo, as well as snacks and soda for the
organizational meetings. Initially, all students could join at
no cost; however, it was discovered that many who signed
up did not participate in tours or meetings. To improve
active participation a membership fee was introduced
which included the cost of the polo and allowed a small
budget to be allotted for meeting expenditures. Current
membership for this program is 163 students, making it
one of the most popular student organizations in the
School of Medicine.
Mizzou Med Student Ambassadors
University of Missouri School of Medicine
Lindsey Gentry, Cheri Marks, Gina Graves, Suzanne Neff, Alison Martin, Rachel Brown MD, Jason Warncke
Ambassador Activities
•Participate in panels and answer questions for groups
interested in medicine
•Give tours for applicants who come to Mizzou for
interviews and Pre-Med Day
•Host applicants at their homes during interviews so
they are spared hotel expenses (established in 2010)
•Send personalized emails to all accepted applicants
•Arrange video conference with a Colorado middle
school to answer questions about diseases for class
project
•Host accepted applicants during second look visit
before deciding on which school they choose to
attend
•Participate in special School of Medicine events
“When applicants have a chance to meet current
students they get a more
personalized, complete & favorable
picture of the school.”
Meryl Sundy, M1 Student
“The host program
provides
a sense of sincere
welcome & hospitality
on behalf of the school.”
R. Spencer Kirkland,
M1 Student
“I want to spread the
same kind of
enthusiasm & helpfulness
to other
potential students
like I received on my
interview day.”
Luke Small, M1 Student
“I love the opportunity to give incoming students a chance to relax & take their minds off
the stress of interview day.” Chase Ellingsworth, M1 Student
“You did an
awesome job
of putting
my fears to rest!”
Kathryn Mohr, Applicant
“Choosing a medical school
involves looking into much more
than the curriculum & lecture halls.
It’s about getting a glimpse of an
average day as an MU medical student.
Staying with a current medical student definitely
provided me with this opportunity.”
Kimberly Bartosiak, Applicant