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Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee associated with the application process.
Who is the target audience for this program?
VASRP is designed for students exploring their interests in anesthesiology and becoming a physician-scientist. Although the program is targeted towards medical students, senior undergraduates are welcome to apply.
What are the criteria for a student to be eligible?
Medical student or senior undergraduate. High school students are not eligible.
Have an interest in pursuing anesthesiology as a specialty.
Have an interest in pursuing research as part of their career pathway. The primary focus of the program is to inspire the next generation of physician-scientists.
Be available to attend the entire summer session. Session dates are nonnegotiable.
Be a US Citizen .
Have a current social security number for employment purposes.
Who is eligible to send a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
At least one letter of recommendation must be submitted from a current or recent professor who is familiar with your interest in research. If you have previous research experience, it is strongly advised that a research mentor submits a letter of recommendation.
Am I eligible to apply as an international student?
Unfortunately, international students are not eligible to apply to the program.
Is it possible to participate in the program while taking summer courses?
No, because the VASRP Program requires a full-time commitment during the summer. There is not enough time to meet both the summer school and program requirements.
If I am unable to participate for the full 8 weeks, am I still eligible?
The summer session dates are not negotiable. Scholars must be present for the full 8 weeks of the program.
My spring term concludes in mid-May. Is it possible for me to start earlier than the proposed start date?
The summer session dates are not negotiable. Scholars must be present for the full 8 weeks of the program.
My Fall term begins in July. Is it possible for me to leave earlier than the proposed end date?
The summer session dates are not negotiable. Scholars must be present for the full 8 weeks of the program.
What are the number of openings for this program?
The number of openings changes annually based on the yearly budget, availability of mentors, and viable research projects that ensure a positive experience for the VASRP scholars.
Can I still apply if I missed the application deadline?
No, only complete applications received by the deadline will be considered.
What are the typical days/hours for the program? What if I have a conflict?
Due to general Spring and Fall terms, VASRP typically runs from the first week of June until the last week of July. VASRP participants are off July 4, 2025. If participants have any significant conflicts, they must be pre-approved by their mentor and the VASRP Director and should be limited to no more than 1-2 business days during the program.
Core participation work hours are a typical 40-hour work week Monday through Friday. The specific daily hours will vary depending on the research group. It is expected for each participant to devote 30+ hours per week focused on research and educational activities. Participants will have the opportunity to gain exposure 1d/wk to clinical anesthesiology by observing in operating rooms across VUMC.
Do I need to have health insurance during the program?
Yes, you will need to provide your own proof of insurance. No, the program does not offer a healthcare plan.
Are travel and housing arrangements covered for participants?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide travel and housing support for our participants.
Can I participate in the program remotely?
VASRP is designed to be an immersive in-person experience.
I'm planning to study for the MCAT during the program dates. Is it a good idea to apply?
VASRP requires a full-time commitment, meaning it is required for scholars to fully dedicate themselves to their responsibilities and take advantage of all program activities. We do not want any significant educational activities to be compromised. Therefore, please carefully consider how much time you need for studying and whether it will conflict with your participation in VASRP. You cannot enroll in an MCAT Review course while participating in VASRP.
I'm planning to study for Step 1 during the program dates. Is there a protected time to study for this exam?
VASRP requires a full-time commitment, meaning it is required for participants to fully dedicate themselves to VASRP and take advantage of all programmed activities. We do not want any significant experiential learning activities to be compromised. Studying for Step 1 is permitted, provided the participant meets VASRP expectations.
I will be applying to medical school or doing medical school interviews during the summer. Can I still apply?
Completing medical school applications is allowed but must be done outside of the VASRP work hours. Attending medical school interviews is permitted, provided the participant meets the VASRP expectations.
Whom should I reach out to if my questions remain unanswered?
Please reach out to either the director, Carrie Grueter, PhD, (carrie.grueter@vumc.org) or the Project Manager, Sharae Shipp (sharae.shipp@vumc.org).
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I have been offered a position, but I would like to decline. What is the best course of action?
Each accepted applicant will be provided with a deadline to accept or decline our offer in writing. Please notify Sharae Shipp (sharae.shipp@vumc.org) of your decision. The sooner we know, the sooner we can notify an alternate applicant of their acceptance. Unfortunately, no exceptions will be made.
I have been accepted and am eager to find out which lab I'll be assigned to.
Your lab assignment will be determined based on mentor availability, funding, and your research interests. We will inform you of your lab placement before the program begins.
What is the required attire?
After being informed of your lab assignment, you are encouraged to reach out to your mentor to discuss appropriate attire. Generally, suitable casual attire is acceptable along with comfortable closed-toe shoes.
How should I prepare for Nashville's weather when packing?
Like our chicken, Nashville is hot! Make sure to pack plenty of casual, lightweight clothing. Our indoor facilities are well air-conditioned, so it is wise to bring a light jacket or pullover. For your end-of-the-program presentation, business-casual is recommended.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not provided, but there is a cafeteria and a Panera in the medical center that are open daily. Additionally, there are many great restaurants within walking distance in and around the medical center. Please feel free to ask leadership and your research group for recommendations.
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What does it mean to be an alternate?
Being an alternate for the program means you will be accepted if a suitable position becomes available due to new openings or if an accepted applicant declines.
I've been informed that I'm an alternate candidate. Should I follow up for a status update?
Absolutely! We will notify you if a position becomes available but please feel free to contact Sharae Shipp at (sharae.shipp@vumc.org) for a status update. Also, please notify us if you have made a commitment to another program or work opportunity.
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Am I allowed to apply again?
If you still meet eligibility requirements, absolutely! Please feel free to contact our Director, Carrie Grueter, PhD, for recommendations on how to make your application more competitive.