CENTER OF EXCELLENCE in Minority Health and Health Disparities | Volume 18 | Spring 2004

COE Academic Advising Program

By Jamae K. K. Kawauchi, JD, Assistant Director, COE, Office for Diversity and Community Partnership

The Center of Excellence in Minority Health and Health Disparities (COE), located in the Office for Diversity and Community Partnership at Harvard Medical School, in collaboration with the Office of Advising Resources at Harvard Medical School (HMS), sponsors the COE Academic Advising Program, a pilot program of academic advisory assistance for HMS underrepresented minority (African American, Alaska Native, American Indian and Hispanic) residents, fellows and junior faculty. This program is a key component of our efforts to increase the representation of underrepresented minority researchers within the higher academic ranks of the Faculty of Medicine.

The Academic Advising Program is designed to promote and support HMS underrepresented minority residents, fellows and junior faculty by providing confidential academic advising assistance for in-service and licensing exams, as well as educational assessment and specialized tutoring for other learning-related issues during clinical training. The program includes initial screening for academic support services and a referral to an Education Specialist, with approval for a limited number of academic support services. Underrepresented minority residents, fellows, and junior faculty may refer themselves or may be referred by their Division Chief/Department Head.