The Trauma Research Associates Program (T-RAP) for undergraduate students: shaping future academic surgeons

Abstract

Objective: Offering undergraduate students research opportunities may enhance their interest in pursuing a surgical career and lead to increased academic productivity. We characterize the benefits of participating in the Trauma Research Associates Program.

Design: A 19-point Web-based survey.

Setting: Academic Level I Trauma Center.

Participants: A total of 29 active and former members of the Trauma Research Associates Program.

Main outcome measure(s): Academic activities and predictors associated with interest in a surgical career and research productivity.

Results: Surveys were completed on 26 of 29 (90%) participants. Clinical experience was the most highly ranked motivation to join the program (65%), followed by pursuing a research experience (46%). During their involvement, 73% of participants observed surgical intensive care unit rounds, 65% observed acute care surgery rounds, and 35% observed a surgical procedure in the operating room. In addition, 46% submitted at least one abstract to a surgical meeting coauthored with the Division's faculty. Furthermore, 58% reported that they enrolled in a medical school, whereas 17% pursued a full-time research job. The program influenced the interest in a surgical career in 39% of all members, and 73% reported that they would incorporate research in their medical career. Observing a surgical procedure was independently associated with development of a high interest in a surgical career (adjusted odds ratio: 6.50; 95% CI: 1.09, 38.63; p = 0.04), whereas volunteering for more than 15 hours per week predicted submission of at least 1 abstract to a surgical conference by the participant (adjusted odds ratio: 13.00; 95% CI: 1.27, 133.29; p = 0.03).

Conclusions and relevance: Development of a structured research program for undergraduate students is beneficial to both the participants and sponsoring institution. Undergraduate exposure to academic surgery enhances interest in pursuing a surgical specialty and leads to academic productivity.

Keywords: Interpersonal and Communication Skills; Practice-Based Learning and Improvement; Systems-Based Practice; academics; research; shortage; student; surgical career; undergraduate; volunteer.