On Tuesday, March 26, the University of Kentucky College of Medicine hosted the 19th annual Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Groves Memorial Student Research Symposium.
Fifty-nine students, representing all four UK College of Medicine campuses, set up research posters to share their findings with their peers, faculty, and staff. Five students took center stage during the lunch plenary, delivering oral presentations on topics like resident communication practices, hepatocellular carcinoma, and opioid education for hernia repair.
This event, organized by the Office of Medical Education and AOA Honor Medical Society, wasn’t just about showcasing academic achievements. It was also a celebration of curiosity, perseverance, and the drive to push the boundaries of medical knowledge.
“We are so proud of all the medical students who are actively engaged in research across our four campuses,” shared Todd R. Cheever, MD, AOA faculty councilor. “Many of the topics presented at the research symposium focused specifically on how to improve the health of individuals across Kentucky. It was amazing to see.”
For many medical students, research is an essential part of their journey to becoming thoughtful, well-rounded physicians. The process sharpens their ability to ask critical questions, evaluate evidence, and make informed, scientific judgments—skills that will serve them well in both scholarly and patient-facing roles. But the impact of participating in the symposium extends far beyond the classroom. Presenting research at such events sets these students apart as they apply for competitive residency programs and future career opportunities.
“The energy among medical students when it comes to research is incredible right now,” shared acting director of medical student research, Lillian R. Sims, PhD. “With a more holistic evaluation and residency match process in place, students are now able to dedicate time to research and other roles in ways they could not in the past. The result is enormous capacity for UK medical students to support our faculty researchers and vice-versa.”
Faculty who are open to working with medical students can contact Dr. Sims (lillian.sims@uky.edu) to be paired with a student or for help brainstorming opportunities. Physicians can also report unique clinical cases directly to the case report database to be connected with students ready to collaborate with them.
