Intersession Program in Cardiac Surgery
Explore the World of Cardiac Surgery: The Intersession Experience for Johns Hopkins Undergraduate Students
The Intersession Program in Cardiac Surgery is a unique opportunity open only for undergraduate students at The Johns Hopkins University to immerse themselves in the field of cardiac surgery.
What is the Intersession Program?
The Intersession Program in Cardiac Surgery offers Johns Hopkins University undergraduate students a unique, structured opportunity to explore the field of cardiac surgery. Over the course of one week, participants will gain hands-on exposure to the daily life of cardiac surgeons and their multidisciplinary teams.
Key program features include:
- Shadowing surgeons in the operating room (OR)
- Observing clinical interactions and patient care in the clinic
- Hands-on learning: Participating in anatomy labs, suturing workshops and academic case discussions
- Multidisciplinary exposure: Working closely with anesthesiologists, perfusionists, physician assistants, residents and fellows
Why participate in the program?
The program provides transformative experiences and significant career benefits, including:
- Medical school preparation: 97% of past participants went on to medical school, with 38% matching into surgical specialties and 9% into cardiothoracic surgery.
- Valuable connections: Build a network of mentors and collaborators at Johns Hopkins.
- Career clarity: 85% of participants reported increased interest in surgery.
- Inspiration and impact: 94% of participants found the program influential in shaping their career decisions.
Quotes from Past Participants
For the first time, I understood the hours involved in medicine, but also the passion and excitement in caring for patients.
The Intersession Program was one of the best educational experiences I had at Hopkins.
The Intersession Program affirmed my desire to go into medicine and was the major reason for my applying to and attending medical school.
The Intersession Program ultimately proved to be instrumental in terms of opening doors to medical school and getting me where I am today.
Snapshots of the Intersession Program
What to Expect
A Week in the Program
Participants can expect a comprehensive, immersive schedule, including:
- Operating room shadowing: Observe cardiac operations.
- Clinic interactions: Learn how surgeons manage patient care outside the OR.
- Research and academic conferences: Engage in discussions on cutting-edge research and case presentations.
- Hands-on workshops: Participate in anatomy labs, suturing workshops and career-building sessions.
- Unique feature: Unlike many shadowing opportunities, this program provides exposure to the full team and diverse perspectives and mentorships from cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, residents/fellows, perfusionists, advanced practice providers and research fellows.
How to Apply
Applications are coordinated through the Johns Hopkins Underserved in the Medical Professions (JUMP) program). There is no cost to participate in this program. Interested students should:
- Submit an application: The JUMP team will contact eligible students with detailed application instructions.
- Attend orientation: Accepted students must attend a mandatory orientation session prior to the program start date.
- Prepare for the week: Students must comply with Johns Hopkins Hospital requirements, including immunizations, HIPAA training and dress-code standards.
Eligibility Criteria
- Full-time undergraduate students in the JUMP program at Johns Hopkins University, with a strong interest in medicine or surgery
- Must commit to the full program week in January 2025, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all dates
Meet the Team
Diane Alejo
Director of Informatics
[email protected]
Alexandra Rizaldi, MS2
[email protected]