Showcasing a ‘rewarding field’: student-trainee program at VAM deals with full spectrum of vascular surgery

Besides being able to attend the scientific and educational sessions at the Vascular Annual Meeting (VAM), medical students and general surgery residents have an entire program devoted specifically to their career stage. 

The VAM Resident and Student Program includes: 

• An introduction to vascular surgery, for pre-medical and medical students interested in learning more about the field of vascular surgery, 6:45 to 8 a.m. Thursday, June 15 
• Succeeding as a vascular surgery residency applicant, for medical students who are planning to apply or who have already matched into vascular surgery residency training, 6:45 to 8 a.m. Thursday, June 15 
• Succeeding as a vascular surgery fellowship applicant, for general surgery residents who are considering or plan to pursue vascular fellowship training, 6:45 to 8 a.m. Thursday, June 15 
• A mock interview session, to prepare students and general surgery residents for vascular surgery training program interviews, 6:30 to 8 a.m. Friday, June 16 
• A Residency and Fellowship Fair, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Friday, June 16 
• A welcome reception specifically for medical students and general surgery residents, from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, June 14 
• Mentor Mentee match, pairing students and general surgery residents with a vascular surgeon for on-site mentorship that often continues on in subsequent months and years 

Students and residents also enjoy highly discounted rates to attend VAM, ranging from $50–$100 for SVS member medical students to $375–$525 for SVS member residents. The exact fee depends on the registration date, which includes three zones. 

In addition, with the support of a faculty member, trainees are encouraged to submit cases for an education session set for Friday, June 16, called “Endovation II.” 

“The Resident and Student Outreach Committee (RSOC) carefully plans this program to showcase our specialty and the Society. VAM serves as an introduction to vascular surgery to those considering vascular surgery as a career choice; they can get an in-depth look at the research, technology and clinical cases that make vascular surgery a rewarding field of practice.

Also, students and residents have the opportunity to meet and network with peers, vascular trainees and faculty already practicing in this rewarding specialty,” said Bernadette Aulivola, MD, committee chair. “Over the years, it’s proved highly successful. Some of our most active SVS members became committed to vascular surgery after attending VAM as a student or resident.” 

It’s not just the programming, she said. Former attendees specifically mention the welcoming atmosphere and camaraderie amongst vascular surgeons at all levels, from newly minted surgeons to those with decades of experience. Aulivola also pointed to the depth and breadth of knowledge that is showcased at VAM, including cutting-edge research presented at the plenaries. 

Learn more at vascular.org/VAM.