Program Overview
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is committed to fostering belonging and advancing social impact. The Underrepresented in Medicine Visiting Student Scholarship Program, sponsored by the UW Department of Ob-Gyn, supports qualified 4th-year medical students from underrepresented backgrounds in medicine in developing their clinical skills and career advancement through a visiting rotation, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Financial Award
Students who are chosen will be awarded a $5,000 stipend. These funds are intended to support costs associated with participation in our program: travel, lodging, food, and transportation.
Program Components
This rotation explores the fundamental clinical aspects of the practice of general gynecology. It offers in-depth exposure to ambulatory, inpatient, and operative gynecology, working under the direct supervision of UW Department of Ob-Gyn faculty, residents, fellows, certified midwives, and advanced practice practitioners. Clinical work runs simultaneously with exposure to didactic teaching in health equity in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. As part of this rotation, you will leave with an understanding of how race and theories of racial difference informed the development of the field and justified the treatment of Black, indigenous, and immigrant patients. You will learn the vital contributions of Black enslaved women, other women of color, and Irish immigrants to Obstetrics and Gynecology. You will make connections between racialized historical practices and contemporary norms in reproductive healthcare.
This rotation is four weeks in duration on our inpatient and outpatient gynecology service. This rotation will be offered in August.
In addition to providing recipients with a financial award to cover the cost of their visiting rotation, the program's components allow recipients to build meaningful relationships with faculty and residents in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn.
Program Eligibility
To be eligible for the UW Department of Ob-Gyn Underrepresented in Medicine Visiting Student Scholarship Program, prospective students must meet one or more of the criteria below:
- High level of financial need.
- First generation college student (neither parent received a baccalaureate degree).
- Students who contribute to the intellectual and cultural enrichment of the program because of their life experiences, including overcoming personal adversity or family hardship, records of extensive community service, or successful careers in other fields.
- Significant barriers to achieving higher education, such as experience in the foster care system, living in a single-parent household, having an incarcerated parent, or responsibilities for providing financial support or primary care for other household members.
- Prior work experience, area of study, community service, or other accomplishments is predictive of future service to populations that have health disparities.
In addition, all prospective students must also meet ALL criteria outlined below:
- Plan on applying to Obstetrics and Gynecology for residency.
- Enrolled in an LCME or AOA accredited medical school.
- U.S. Citizen, Canadian citizen, or permanent resident of the United States.
- In their final year of training at the time of rotation at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
Note: All applicants must complete a Visiting Student Learning Opportunities (VSLO) application and submit all items required by the UW School of Medicine and Public Health. For instructions on how to submit, visit MD Program Office of Visiting Students.
Selection Process
The UW Department of Ob-Gyn Underrepresented in Medicine Visiting Student Scholarship Application Committee reviews all applications. Selection is based on an individualized, holistic review of each application, including (but not limited to) the student's demonstrated personal integrity, commitment to service and civic/community engagement, persistence in and commitment to academic success, capacity to grow as a leader, and potential to excel in their field.
Timelines and Application
To be considered for the UW Department of Ob-Gyn Underrepresented in Medicine Visiting Student Scholarship, students should apply by 11:59 PM CST on May 4, 2026.
To ensure full consideration of your application, follow the steps below:
- Complete the Underrepresented in Medicine Visiting Student Scholarship Application in accordance with the application requirements below.
- Receive correspondence on the status of your application through the UW Department of Ob-Gyn Education Office.
- If selected, complete the Visiting Student Learning Opportunities application. Submit all required items for UW SMPH.
Application Requirements
- Current curriculum vitae.
- Personal Statement (500 words maximum).
- Supplemental essay:
- Why are you interested in a career in Obstetrics and Gynecology? How do you plan to promote health equity in Obstetrics and Gynecology? What are your career goals? (500 word maximum).
