Partnership with WSU School of Medicine gives GVSU students enhanced admission opportunities

Leaders from two public universities today signed a partnership agreement that provides Grand Valley premedical students enhanced opportunities for admission to Wayne State University School of Medicine.

The Early Assurance Program was introduced by leaders from Grand Valley and Wayne State's School of Medicine at the GVSU Detroit Center during a Grand Valley Board of Trustees meeting.

Jean Nagelkerk, vice provost for health at GVSU, said the program reserves up to five medical school spots for qualified Grand Valley students who are interested in practicing medicine. Recruitment will begin this spring for students who would be admitted to medical school in 2018. 

Richard S. Baker, M.D., vice dean for medical education and professor of ophthalmology at WSU, said the program also acts as a recruitment initiative that supports groups that are underrepresented in medicine, including students from underserved high schools or those who are first-generation college students.

“Our partnership with Grand Valley is an important step toward our commitment to recruiting the best and brightest students from throughout the state of Michigan whose career goals align with our mission as a nationally recognized top-tier medical school known for urban clinical excellence," Baker said.

Nagelkerk said the program will provide enhanced opportunities for students who are interested in practicing in underserved areas or who are dedicated to careers in medicine.

An added benefit of the program, Nagelkerk added, is students will not have to submit multiple applications to medical schools, which affords them an opportunity to concentrate on broadening their knowledge base and skill set while engaging in high-impact learning experiences.