AAOS Pathway to Residency - IDEA Grant 

Program Description

The American Association of Latino Orthopaedic Surgeons (AALOS) promotes diversity in orthopaedic surgery through mentorship and education. Our mission is to empower underrepresented students and young professionals to pursue successful careers in orthopaedic surgery. Despite being competitive applicants, underrepresented minority (URM) medical students enter orthopaedic surgery residency programs at lower rates than their peers (1).

Orthopaedic surgery remains one of the least diverse medical specialties, with significant discrepancies between the diversity of the U.S. population and the demographics of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Hispanic/Latino individuals comprise 18.7% of the U.S. population, but only 2.2% of orthopaedic surgeons. In contrast, White Americans comprise 76.3% of the U.S. population and 84.7% of the AAOS membership (2). Mentorship is crucial for guiding students toward orthopaedics (3), and students at “orphan” medical schools (those without affiliated residencies) match at lower rates than those from schools with established programs (4). Structured mentorship and residency-facing preparation are therefore essential.

Current Cohort (2025): With AAOS IDEA support, AALOS launched the Pathway to Residency Program. From 30+ applicants, eight scholars were selected. We have completed two webinars—(1) selecting away rotations & how to excel; (2) ERAS, LORs, and personal statements—and will deliver two additional webinars later this year (interviewing and final application readiness). In addition, scholars are receiving one-on-one guidance as needed on selecting aways, where to apply, and timing strategy. Reimbursements for travel (lodging/transportation) are in progress to ensure timely support. Scholars are currently undertaking away rotations across the country, and 100% report pursuing programs they would not have targeted without the stipend and advising. We will also provide individual interview preparation (mock interviews, feedback) and rank-list counseling, and will continue supporting scholars after they match to facilitate a strong transition into residency. Early feedback confirms that focused preparation and financial support address key barriers to matching.

To expand its impact, the 2026 AALOS Pathway to Residency Program aims to support 12 medical students with financial assistance, educational resources, structured education, and longitudinal mentorship, with the goal of increasing preparedness for away rotations and strengthening residency applications.

Financial Support:

·      $2,000 per scholar for away-rotation expenses (lodging and/or transportation).

·      Educational Resources:

·      Orthopaedic Rotations Survival Guide (AAOS, paper copy)

·      AALOS scrub cap

·      Virtual written lesson plan for away-rotation success and the match process.

·      Education and Guidance:

·      Four virtual quarterly meetings taught by AALOS members and residents with content expertise who will provide interactive dialogue on the following topics:

·      Webinar 1: How to effectively apply for rotations, including VSLO usage and selecting appropriate programs.

·      Webinar 2: How to excel as a student rotator by demonstrating work ethic, understanding clinical presentations, and learning the do's and don'ts of rotating.

·      Webinar 3: Tips for crafting a compelling ERAS application, including writing personal statements and securing effective letters of recommendation.

·      Webinar 4: Techniques for successful interviewing, focusing on in-person and virtual interviews, personalized feedback, and practice.
Mentorship:

·     
Each scholar will be connected with a mentor from AALOS (a resident, fellow, or attending) for ongoing support throughout their journey and continued support after they match


Objectives

 

·      Minimize financial barriers to away rotations.

 

·      Equip scholars with targeted educational materials to maximize their readiness for rotation.

 

·      Teach practical strategies to excel as rotators and improve ranking potential.

 

·      Demystify ERAS (including personal statements and LORs).

 

·      Prepare scholars for interviews through skills training and feedback.

 

·      Target Population: 12 medical students from LCME-accredited MD/DO programs in the U.S. and its territories.

 

·      Anticipated Impact: Enhanced rotation performance and stronger applications that increase match success.

 

·      Implementation Methods: Quarterly webinars, structured mentorship, curated educational resources.

 

·      Expected Results: Greater readiness for rotations/interviews and improved match outcomes.

 

·      Benefits to Orthopaedic Surgery: Increased diversity and a more representative workforce serving diverse patient populations.