The Department of Pediatrics at VUMC is committed to recruiting and supporting medical students from varied backgrounds and life experiences who are interested in pediatrics.
The E3 (Explore, Engage, and Excel) Visiting Scholars program offers an enriching opportunity for fourth-year medical students aspiring to enter the field. Our program is designed to foster collaboration, engagement and community building.
Through a comprehensive four-week Pediatric Acting Internship (AI) or Advanced Clinical Elective (ACE), students will gain invaluable clinical experience and exposure to our residents and faculty and the population we serve. Our goal is to nurture future leaders in pediatrics and community health.
Who Should Apply?
The program prioritizes applicants who have experienced significant adversity or challenges in their journey to pursue a career in medicine. These challenges may include socioeconomic hardships, growing up in rural or underserved areas or other unique life experiences. Applicants are encouraged to share their personal narratives, highlighting how societal factors have shaped their interests and commitment to a career in pediatrics, whether in general pediatrics or a pediatric subspecialty.
Program Highlights Clinical Experience
- Engage in a robust clinical experience, gaining hands-on skills in pediatrics.
- Work closely with experienced medical professionals in a supportive clinical learning environment.
- Participate in educational conferences as well as opportunity to attend social events with faculty and house staff.
- Connect with a faculty member advisor as well as a resident “Big Sib” to offer support during your clinical elective.
- Meet with Department leaders involved in institutional engagement and community partnerships and members of the Advisory Committee for Community Engagement and Residency Program Leadership.
- Explore collaborative opportunities and initiatives that promote our academic mission for fair and respectful treatment of all in the health care setting through the promotion of humanism and belonging.
- Receive an offer to interview at VUMC Pediatrics Residency Program.
Scholarship Award
Receive a $2,000 stipend to cover the cost of transportation, lodging, meals, and other essential expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the program, applicants must:
- Be in good standing at their medical school.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in Pediatrics and Community Health.
- Express a desire to learn more about our department and Pediatric Residency Program at Vanderbilt.
- Have completed their core pediatric clerkship before the start of the visiting elective.
Application Process
- Complete an application in the Visiting Student Learning Opportunities (VSLO) platform for any Pediatric AI or ACE, meeting all institutional requirements.
- Submit the VUMC E3 Visiting Scholar Program application.
- Ensure all relevant details are provided, including your interest in and commitment to the field of Pediatrics.
Additional Details
Visiting medical students: Learn more details about accommodations.
Application Deadline: April 7, 2026, 5 p.m. Central Time
Contact Information
Through the E3 Visiting Scholars Program, we aim to empower future pediatricians to thrive in their careers and to contribute meaningfully to the communities they serve. We invite you to join us in shaping the future of Pediatrics at Vanderbilt. We eagerly await your application! For further inquiries, email lyndi.hopkins@vumc.org.