Work

Redrawing the surgical line: The role of female surgeon mentorship in shaping female medical students’ perceptions of surgery

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although females comprise the majority of medical students in the United States, they remain underrepresented in surgical specialties. METHODS: A medical student chapter of the Association of Women Surgeons (AWS) organized shadowing experiences with female surgeons for preclinical students. Pre- and post-surveys were administered assessing perceptions of surgery, confidence in finding a mentor, and interest in surgical careers. RESULTS: Twenty-six female students participated. After shadowing, they felt more comfortable with surgeons (p = 0.011), more supported by surgeons (p = 0.031), and more confident in finding a surgical mentor (p = 0.037). Comments about the experience were positive and they looked forward to exploring surgery further with female surgeons. CONCLUSIONS: Early exposure to female surgeon role models positively affects female medical students' perceptions of surgery and access to mentorship. Expanding such shadowing opportunities across all medical schools would further support female medical students considering pursuing a surgical specialty.

Source: The American Journal of Surgery

DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2025.116650

Authors: Meghan Lemons, Dylan T. Vance, Allianna Mitchell, Hannah G. Geoffroy, Ellie M. Helton, Lyndsey J. Kilgore

Institution: University of Kansas Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Diversity and Career in Medicine

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Gender equality, Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,830