News

Graduating during a year rocked by a pandemic and social inequity, UCSF School of Medicine’s class of 2021 is ready to make a difference in their communities and advocate for equality and justice in the health care system. More than one-third of the class of 2021 are from groups that are underrepresented in medicine, 27 percent are the first in their families to earn a college diploma, and they speak more than a dozen languages.

The 2021 Inquiry Symposium, which was held virtually on May 5, highlighted medical students’ culminating research projects. 

“The events of 2021 underscore the critical role of research and scholarship and how it contributes to advancing health worldwide,” said Director of the Inquiry Curriculum Rita Redberg, MD. “From addressing systemic racism in medicine to pushing forward biomedical vaccine discoveries, we are so pleased to congratulate each student and mentor today on their special contributions.” 

With the academic year 2020-21 almost behind us, what was a year of challenges, also afforded the GME Pathways program unique opportunities to grow and adapt. GME Pathways is a multi-disciplinary, inter-professional program open to UCSF learners at all training levels.

Critical reflection and compassion are driving forces in learner development and patient care. Academy member Mike Rabow, MD, posed two key questions to Stella Ng, PhD, a recognized scholar in this area whose keynote address, Critically Reflective Practice for a Compassionate Healthcare System, will delve deeper into these areas and the healthcare system. Her keynote kicks off UCSF's Education Showcase Plenary 1 session on Monday, May 24, from 12:30 to 4:30 pm.