Welcome to AHANA
Background:
The African, Hispanic, Asian & Native American (AHANA) Pre-Health Society was founded in 1995 by two first year medical students and two undergraduate pre-medical students. The formation of AHANA is based upon a need to support, encourage, and maintain the interest of minority students, who remain nationally underrepresented in medicine as well as in other health professional careers. Minorities make up 34% of the U.S. population (1). However, racial and ethnic minorities make up only 10% of U.S. physicians and surgeons (2). This discrepancy may have an impact on issues such as minority patient’s access to empathetic quality health care and allocation of available technological services as compared to members of the majority U.S. population.
Locally, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has over 44,000 students, while students of color compromise only 12.2%. The need for AHANA arises from students' personal experiences. Difficult courses are often tackled independently which may lead to feelings of loneliness and frustration. This issue is especially evident with pre-health students, who often get lost in large lectures. The difficulty locating support services may cause students to question their capabilities. Lastly, many students have been blatantly discouraged from pursuing challenging careers in healthcare instead of being guided and advised.
Support may be found by joining AHANA. The opportunities that AHANA offers are life-changing. The support from peers with similar interests makes the challenges feel shared and easier to overcome. AHANA has experienced substantial growth and provided students with: academic support, networking opportunities, mentorship, shadowing, socials, professional conferences, volunteer work, professional school visits and much more. Students have undeniably encouraged each other to achieve. Many students of color are extremely motivated and capable; however, may need individual assistance from time to time. AHANA’s leadership is determined to effectively represent the organization, enhance the UW-Madison community and maintain its legacy.
References
1. U.S. Minority Population Continues to Grow, May 14 2008, www.america.gov
2. Minorities in Medical Education: Facts & Figures 2005, AAMC