First in Family
University of Michigan Medical School
First in Family at the University of Michigan Medical School provides medical students who are first-generation college and/or low-income (FGLI) with the academic, professional, financial, and community resources necessary to succeed in medical school and the medical profession.
Our Mission
First in Family at the University of Michigan medical school was founded as a response to the unique challenges inherent in the medical school experience of first-generation and low-income medical students such as navigating specialty paths. FGLI students lack the social capital, financial resources, and the knowledge of the hidden curriculum of the field of medicine possessed by non-FGLI peers. The intersectionality of socioeconomic status, race, and gender, with FGLI status compounds the challenges that the FGLI community face and contributes to the student experience. Our organization aims to provide FGLI medical students at Michigan with ample resources to individually navigate professional development, support the emergent and long-term financial needs of students, and build a community that supports student well being. sat sri akaal
Our Accomplishments
Launching the Food Packaging and MCard Supplemental Food Assistance Programs to provide groceries and meals to FGLI students facing food insecurity
Recruiting FGLI faculty and FGLI alumni for mentorship
Speaking with potential applicants prior to their UMMS interview
Building an FGLI advice book
Sharing financial loan and scholarship opportunities
Organizing a food drive to alleviate the financial concerns of FGLI students
Sharing pipeline programs: UroVersity, Anastomosis, Michigan Dermatology and Ophthalmology Pathway Programs
Organizing panels with students and faculty on clerkships, the Match, and professional advice
Expanding mentorship families beyond near-peer to include residents and faculty
FGLI class cohorts to enhance social connection and expand social networks
Advocacy with the medical school administration
Initiated scholarly projects and research efforts focused on the FGLI experience
