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The Generalist Scholars Program at the University of Virginia
Training the Next Generation of Leaders in Primary CareThe Generalist Scholars Program (GSP) is a scholarship program designed to develop leaders in primary care fields such as family medicine, general internal medicine and general pediatrics. Established in 1994 with support from a Robert Wood Johnson Generalist Initiative Grant and the Commonwealth of Virginia General Assembly, this program trains student leaders who intend to pursue a career in a field of generalist medicine. The program was initially developed and funded as one attempt to address the dwindling supply of generalist physicians, particularly in the underserved areas of the Commonwealth. |
Guided by a personal mentor, students in the GSP complete a scholarly project in an area of their choosing as it relates to primary care medicine. Students participate in unique educational experiences and clinical opportunities.
During orientation students are introduced first hand to our local community and some of our unique patient populations. A longitudinal group community health project allows students to explore a common interest in a specific community partner and or population.
Individuals who receive an offer of admission to the University of Virginia School of Medicine who are interested in a career in general medicine, are encouraged to apply to the Generalist Scholars Program (GSP). Scholarship funds are awarded to participating students during each year of enrollment.
The GSP has been a wonderful and important part of
my medical education.
-Dr. Megan Dunay
"The GSP has been a wonderful and important part of my medical education. Without the GSP, I would never have seized the opportunity to complete a joint MD/MPH program at the UVa School of Medicine. I would never have had the time or funding to complete a research project that I dreamed up myself. I would never have understood the power of motivational interviewing in primary care, or the importance of mindfulness in the professional development of primary care physicians. I would never have forged the relationships I have with attending physicians in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. I would never have gotten to see the Graham Center in Washington DC, or meet with an intern for the Senate Finance Committee working on health care reform. The GSP has given me the confidence and tools to become the best Family Physician I can be."
- Dr. Megan Dunay, 2010 UVA SOM & GSP Graduate.
For more information contact our office at
(434) 982-6317
or email Ms. Dela Alexander.
