Aspiring Surgeons Program (ASP) is a student-run organization that aims to facilitate unique learning opportunities in the field of surgery. In collaboration with the Emory University School of Medicine’s Cell Biology Department and human anatomy curriculum, the organization welcomes participation from medical students in all stages of their training.

Fundamental to ASP’s pedagogy is the early exploration of surgical fields via an integration of ongoing exercises in the study of human anatomy and frequent clinical exposure. Specifically, those students who have already completed MEDI 505, Human Anatomy, conduct pre-dissection sessions and provide laboratory assistance for first year medical students under supervision of the course director.

ASP actively seeks and builds relationships with physicians in surgical fields to share learning opportunities in clinical practice, surgical procedure, fundamental skills, career counseling, and emerging technologies. When feasible, these activities correlate to the anatomical studies in the associated MEDI 505 curriculum. Programming in the second semester emphasizes suture clinics, endosurgery simulation (courtesy of the E*STAR lab), grand rounds attendance, and seminars.

This Web portal (ASPortal) represents a powerful management and communication tool for the coordination and distribution of APS’s resources and activities. Some of ASPortal's technical features include an integrated calendar-email contact management system, MEDI 505 student resources, online physician sign-up, community forum, and membership information.

Pursuing a future in the field of surgery demands a personal commitment that must withstand the lengthy, physically challenging, and highly competitive nature of the profession. ASPs guided exploration of surgery during the first two years of medical school empowers its members to better assess their role as future surgeons. Along the way, ASP members foster meaningful relationships with surgeons in our community while honing an expertise in human anatomy that is applicable to pending USMLE Step 1 exams and a successful career in surgery.