Medical students navigate a range of challenges and pressures throughout their educational journey. If not proactively addressed, these stressors can contribute to feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and ultimately, burnout or attrition. At Rush Medical College, a dynamic and supportive community is at the core of fostering compassionate, highly skilled Doctors committed to lifelong learning, innovation, and excellence across clinical practice, education, research, and service.
At Rush Medical College, inclusivity and belonging are woven into every aspect of the student experience, beginning from day one. This supportive culture is a foundational element in each medical student’s professional growth, with mentorship serving as a key driver. The college’s Physician-led approach, commitment to community partnerships, and robust mentorship initiatives are instrumental in recruiting and retaining future Physicians—guiding them from early education through residency and onward in their medical careers.
“Fully engaged faculty provide guidance around every aspect of a medical career, including professional choices and personal relationships,” said Cynthia Boyd, MD, Associate Dean of admissions and recruitment at Rush Medical College. “That includes research opportunities, clinical experiences and leadership roles within the Rush system.”
Fostering Belonging and Recognition
Rush fosters an engaged and supportive community for medical students, placing special emphasis on uplifting those from historically underrepresented backgrounds through structured programs and peer mentorship.
“Students from those groups may face additional hurdles such as isolation, microaggressions or lack of mentorship,” Dr. Boyd said. “Initiatives such as student affinity groups, diversity equity and inclusion programming, and consistent faculty engagement are designed to foster a sense of belonging, making students feel seen, supported and valued.” Dr. Boyd emphasizes that creating an intentional and welcoming environment is crucial.
“A sense of belonging is vital for students’ personal and professional development,” she said. “So, we’ve fostered an environment that recognizes and values diverse experiences and backgrounds. That creates a sense of well-being that is vital for success as a student now and as a working Physician in the future.”
Support Beyond the classroom
Given the rigorous demands of medical school, Rush’s Center for Wellness provides comprehensive mental health services and well-being initiatives that address stress, anxiety, and depression—challenges that can have an even greater impact on students from historically excluded groups.
It is also important to recognize and address additional daily challenges faced by students.
“Financial burdens due to high tuition costs and living expenses may also deter some students from continuing, particularly those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds,” added Dr. Boyd.
Rush takes a proactive approach by offering financial counseling and debt management resources, supporting students as they navigate the financial responsibilities of their medical education.
“Career opportunities are also key to success in an academic health system,” Dr. Boyd said. Rush Medical College’s Office of Medical Student Affairs provides targeted support for career advancement, including résumé and CV guidance, interview coaching, and access to research and leadership opportunities.
Advancing Equity Through Service
Dr. Boyd and the Rush medical education leadership recognize the importance of providing continued support beyond graduation. Retaining talent by recruiting from within remains one of the most effective strategies, and a significant number of Rush graduates choose to remain for residency.
The Rush Community Service Initiatives Program (RCSIP) is a longtime and effective recruitment and retention tool. More than 90% of Rush University students volunteer in the community alongside teachers and peers from every college.
“It provides opportunities for students, faculty, residents, fellows and staff to use their skills and talents to help the community,” said Dr. Boyd. “It also enhances teamwork, patient relationships and care for diverse populations while meeting the community’s very specific needs.”
Upholding Values and Shaping Tomorrow
Rush is purposefully expanding its impact while staying true to the foundational qualities that make it a welcoming and fulfilling environment for future Physicians.
At Rush, recruitment marks only the start of a greater commitment. The institution’s focus is on creating a supportive, empowering environment where students thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Through deliberate mentorship, inclusive initiatives, well-being resources, and a shared sense of purpose, Rush is dedicated to developing not only accomplished Physicians but also valued colleagues. This is an ongoing investment in people, community, and a culture of compassionate care that defines Rush’s legacy.