The Class of 2026 includes five students who are considered medically underrepresented, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges, which defines racial and ethnic populations as underrepresented in the medical profession relative to the general population. Additionally, eight students came from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and one was a first-generation college student.
“We continue to be inspired by the number of applicants who contribute to the school’s mission,” said Melanie Prusakowski, admissions associate at VTCSOM. I am sure that all the exceptional individuals who have spoken or written about their passion for serving others will be further strengthened in this exciting learning environment.
Students in the class represent 16 states, one each from Washington, D.C., and Quebec. Ten are from Virginia and two live in their hometown of Roanoke. The students came from 37 undergraduate institutions, including three at Virginia Tech.
VTCSOM has a rigorous curriculum in which all students are required to complete an original, hypothesis-driven research project and a lengthy course in health systems science and professional enterprise practice. These requirements ensure that students develop the knowledge and skills to become scientist-physicians and system citizens who lead improvements in health and health care. The Class of 2026 was well prepared for these aspects of the VTCSOM, each conducting an average of 2,957 research hours with 2,903 clinical hours.
