Honor Societies

Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society

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Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) is the only academic honor medical society in the world. A group of six medical students established the society at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Chicago in 1902 with the motto: “Worthy to serve the suffering.” For over a century, AOA’s mission has remained constant: To recognize and perpetuate excellence in the medical profession. Here at the OSU College of Medicine, we take great pride in electing outstanding medical students, faculty, alumni, and house staff to the ranks of the Gamma Chapter of Ohio.

Eligibility: Students are eligible for AOA membership in their third and fourth years. Those who are in the top 25% of their class may be considered, but the number inducted from each class may not exceed one-sixth of the graduating class. At OSU, this breaks down to about 34 students per class. About half are juniors, who are elected in the spring of their third year, and half are seniors, who are elected in the fall of their fourth year. Faculty, alumni, and house staff are currently chosen in the spring.
Selection Criteria: Scholastic excellence is a key criterion, but not the only one for election. Leadership, fairness, compassion, integrity, and service are other factors. We also look at volunteer experiences, participation in student groups, and research.
The Process: Current AOA members are responsible for defining the criteria for electing new members to the Gamma Chapter of Ohio. Once that is established, data on all eligible students are collected, including grades and curriculum vitae (CVs).
The Rewards: Election to AOA is a distinction that will accompany you throughout your career. And as a younger physician, you’ll also benefit from the exchange of ideas with your peers and the valuable contacts you make.

For additional information, contact:

Sheryl Pfeil, M.D.
Councilor
395 W. 12th Avenue - Suite 200
sheryl.pfeil@osumc.edu

Eileen Mehl, M.A.
Program Manager
B-013B Graves Hall
(614)292-9952
eileen.mehl@osumc.edu

Related Links

http://www.alphaomegaalpha.org/