The Heersink School of Medicine is excited to celebrate the beginning of the new academic year with a Student Welcome Reception.
This year’s event will be held on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB. Students, trainees, and faculty will have the opportunity to connect while enjoying a selection of delicious food and music.
Attending this reception is more than just a chance to enjoy great food and music—it’s an opportunity to build relationships and foster a sense of belonging within the academic community. By establishing relationships with peers, mentors, and colleagues early in the year, students can significantly enhance their experience at the Heersink and set a positive tone for their academic journey.
Leisha Hultgren, Ph.D., program director, defines belonging as “the feeling of security and support—a sense of acceptance and respect for everyone.”
As Hultgren notes, “A sense of belonging helps students feel comfortable showing up as their authentic self, which leads to greater success through increased engagement, collaboration, and problem solving.”
To emphasize this theme, special guest speakers Mona Fouad, M.D., MPH, senior associate dean for Diversity and Inclusion, and Craig Hoseley, M.D., senior associate dean for Medical Education and chair of the Department of Medical Education, will discuss the importance of belonging and how the school is committed to fostering this environment. Following their remarks, medical student Alexis Rutland and resident Justin Bailey will share their personal experiences of belonging and provide insights on navigating the transition into medical education.
Register for the Student Welcome Reception and join peers, colleagues, and school leaders as we kick off the academic school year together.