The Excellence through Coaching, Empowerment, and Learning (ExCEL) Program
The Excellence through Coaching, Empowerment, and Learning (ExCEL) Program is a near-peer mentorship/educational support program created by the UT Health San Antonio Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) chapter in July 2014. The program was developed to promote the retention and success of LMSA members during the first and second years of medical school, focusing on providing academic resources, professional development, and a supportive learning community.
The ExCEL Program aims to:
- Help new students adjust to the rigor of undergraduate medical education through academic enrichment activities.
- Present opportunities to forge near-peer mentorships so entering medical students can capitalize on the experience of advanced students while advanced students can gain valuable mentorship experience.
- Foster a supportive community that provides social support for personal and academic success.
- Encourage community involvement in addressing health disparities.