Neurological Surgery Medical Students
Saint Louis University School of Medicine students exploring a career in neurological surgery can access clinical experiences, research projects, journal clubs and peer support.
Charting a Course in Neurosurgery
The Division of Neurological Surgery offers training opportunities to students at various stages of their education, from high school through undergraduate medical school.
High school students, undergraduate students and interested observers have the opportunity to shadow a neurosurgeon at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital. For more information, contact Joanna Kemp, M.D., at joanna.kemp@health.slu.edu.
Pre-clinical medical students have two paths for neurosurgery exposure:
- Secure a neurosurgery elective via the elective lottery.
- Arrange a clinical or research specialty-designed elective with a neurosurgery attending.
Medical students in their clerkship year may fulfill their surgery requirement with a neurosurgery rotation. Additionally, they may participate in a clinical and/or research elective during their career-exploration block.
Fourth-year medical students can spend a two- or four-week neurosurgery rotation at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
They can also complete a four-week sub-internship in neurosurgery, an intensive, hands-on rotation designed for students pursuing neurosurgery residency.
Interested students should use the Oasis scheduling system when prompted by the School of Medicine’s Office of Curricular Affairs.
Fourth-year medical students who are not enrolled at Saint Louis University School of Medicine can apply for an away four-week rotation in neurology through the Visiting Student Learning Opportunities (VSLO) Program. They’ll be exposed to a full range of neurosurgical issues and will function as an integral part of the team.
Key Experiences
- Round each morning with the resident and attending
- Observe and perform critical bedside procedures
- Assist residents with patient care
- Observe surgical procedures, including:
- Brain tumor surgery
- Functional neurosurgery
- Neuro-trauma surgery
- Skull base surgery
- Complex spine surgery
- Attend weekly academic conferences and present on a topic of choice
American Association of Neurological Surgeons Medical Student Chapter
The AANS student chapter offers early support and leadership training to students interested in neurosurgery. It provides a forum for students to organize professional, educational and research opportunities; promotes faculty mentorship; and facilitates participation at a national level for the next generation of neurosurgical leaders.
Key Activities
- Monthly Journal Club
- Grand Rounds via Zoom
- Research opportunities
- Shadowing