The Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation at the University of Iowa is recognized among the nation’s leading academic orthopedic programs. The department is committed to cultivating students’ professional development through mentorship, scholarship, and clinical excellence, preparing them to shape the future of orthopedic surgery in Iowa and across the country.

The Iowa Orthopedic Medical Student Scholarship recognizes medical students at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine who have demonstrated a strong commitment to pursuing a career in orthopedic surgery. One or two exceptional medical students who have successfully completed the core clinical year and who have an interest in orthopedics will be selected for the award. The award will include a $500 stipend to assist with clinical and professional development. This scholarship seeks to encourage the development of future leaders in the field who exemplify integrity, curiosity, and a dedication to advancing broad representation within the specialty of orthopedics and musculoskeletal health. This scholarship also aims to support University of Iowa students who show a desire to expand access to orthopedic education and foster an environment of mentorship, collaboration, and opportunity within the medical community. This scholarship continues our long commitment to excellence, service, and inclusion.

Application Timeline

Applications are accepted each year from March 1 through March 31.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. Be in good academic standing at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
  2. Completion of core clinical year including two-week orthopedic selective with plan to complete advanced orthopedic clerkship
  3. Exhibit a genuine interest in orthopedic surgery, demonstrated through coursework, research, clinical experience, or extracurricular involvement

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed by a committee and evaluated based on the following:

  1. Academic and Professional Achievement: Evidence of strong academic performance and engagement in medical training
  2. Commitment to Orthopedic Surgery: Demonstrated interest through electives, research, or mentorship activities
  3. Leadership and Service: Involvement in programs or initiatives that encourage growth, access, or mentorship among peers or aspiring medical professionals
  4. Personal Statement and Endorsement: Insight into the applicant’s motivation, goals, and potential to contribute meaningfully to the future of orthopedic surgery

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials as a single PDF to tonia-johnston@uiowa.edu:

  1. A personal statement (500 words) outlining their interest in orthopedic surgery, professional aspirations, and how this scholarship will contribute to their growth and enhance their future in orthopedic surgery.
  2. A current curriculum vitae (CV) summarizing relevant academic, clinical, research, and service experience
  3. One letter of recommendation from a faculty member, physician, or mentor

Award Details

  1. One to two scholarships of $500 will be awarded annually to the awarded medical students
  2. Scholarship funds may be applied towards clinical and professional development such as travel for sub-Is, travel to professional meetings, or other educational expenses
  3. During their advanced orthopedic clerkship, the Iowa Orthopaedic Medical Student Scholarship awardees will participate in the clinical services at the University of Iowa, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, the educational programs including conferences and surgical skills education, and have the opportunity to participate in research conferences. The awardees are required to present a 10–15-minute case-based presentation with a faculty mentor at one of the department’s educational conferences.
     

*Award recipients will be selected by the Wellness Committee