The UAB Department of Surgery Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee was pleased to host a screening of Debbie Lum’s film “Try Harder!,” a movie that documents the mounting pressure of high school students–particularly from the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders community–aiming to get into a prestigious college.

The film uniquely demonstrates the pressures that high-achieving students face in order to succeed. As educators and trainers of future surgeon scientists, it is important to see and understand these pressures, specifically on behalf of minoritized students.

The DEI committee hosted the screening at Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema, which had a dedicated theater just for attendees. The center also had concessions and drinks available for purchase before the screening.

Following the film, filmmaker Debbie Lum joined the theater for a virtual question and answer session. Audience members were able to ask her their pressing questions and hear from her perspective on the filmmaking aspects as well as the challenging diversity aspects as well.

Vice Chair of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Colin Martin, M.D., FACS, believes that the film impacted all in attendance.

“This was such a wonderful film for attendees to watch, consider, and digest when considering the specific experiences of the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders community,” said Martin. “We had a great turn out, and all of our audience members were thoroughly engaged in this learning opportunity. Thank you to Dr. Chen for inviting Debbie.”

In fact, there was such an overwhelming response from the first screening of "Try Harder!" that the department has decided to host a second screening of the film. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP here.