Recognizing the underrepresentation of Black physicians in BC and the importance of having a community of physicians that reflects the social identities represented in BC’s growing population, UBC Medicine launched the Black Student MD Pathway in 2023, encouraging and supporting Black students to reach their aspirations of becoming a doctor and future health care leader.

Last year, alumni, friends and the donor community came together on Giving Day with gifts to the Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students, to support students like Audrey.

Audrey grew up with an aptitude for science and curiosity about a career in medicine. The decision to study physiology and pharmacology in her undergraduate degree was a natural fit, but she found it hard to see herself on the path to becoming a doctor, as she hadn’t seen many Black physicians.

She started medical school in 2023 with eight more students admitted through the Black Student MD Pathway and was among three classmates who received a modest award from the newly-established Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students to help blunt the high prohibitive costs of Medical School.

“Being a student of colour in a field that is predominately white is difficult, but feeling supported by UBC in ways such as the Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students makes a big difference. It really shows that UBC cares about making our healthcare system more inclusive and accessible.”

—Audrey, first-year UBC Medicine student

Your gift to the Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students will recognize students for their academic excellence and provide funding to help alleviate the financial costs associated with their education. The award is also one way to let Black students know that UBC is a warm, inclusive place, that they belong here and are welcomed.

Support access to medical training opportunities and make a tangible difference to strengthen diversity and inclusivity in our health care system and the health of our community—give today.

Challenges

The Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students Match - Challenge Unlocked!
The first $15,000 in gifts to the Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students on April 4 will be matched by an anonymous donor.

The Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students Challenge - Challenge Unlocked!
When 20 donors give to the Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students on April 4, a gift of $5,000 from an anonymous donor will be unlocked.

The Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students Faculty and Staff Challenge - Challenge Unlocked!
When 10 UBC faculty and staff give to the Entrance Award in Medicine for Black Students on April 4, a gift of $1,500 from Dr. Neeru Gupta will be unlocked.