LSU Orthopaedic Students Participate in the AAOS One-Day Medical Student Program
At the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons Annual Meeting, fifteen students ranging
from first- to third-year participated in the AAOS Medical Student Program, a one-day
immersive experience designed to introduce students to the field of orthopedics and
help them prepare for residency. The program provided early exposure to the specialty
through a combination of hands-on learning, mentorship, and career development. Students
received guidance from leaders in the field on navigating the residency application
process and how to be successful in orthopedics. Additionally, they took part in interactive
sessions covering the fundamentals of orthopedics and professional development.
A major focus of the program was practical experience and networking. Students connected
with fellow medical students, residents, and program directors and took part in speed
mentoring sessions that allowed students to connect directly with attendings and residents
to ask questions and receive personalized guidance. Students also participated in
a hands-on skills lab using simulation models to practice basic orthopedic procedures,
such as an external fixation, which provided valuable early exposure. In addition,
they completed a self-assessment exam to evaluate their knowledge of orthopedics and
identify areas for growth in the field.
Students immediately applied what they learned by continuing to network throughout
the conference.
Additionally, Erik Piedy (L3), presented his work “Are We Missing the Mark? Sagittal Malalignment in Nonoperative Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.” at the event.
