AOA

UIC website and the national website

AOA Background: In 1902, William Webster Root and five other medical students, at what later became the University of Illinois School of Medicine, established the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. The founders of this society sought to elevate the quality of physicians being educated at that time in history. The motto of the society, "Worthy to serve the suffering," is an appropriate summation of the individuals who are elected into this most prestigious of medical societies. The society has since evolved into a major national organization.

The spirit of AOA are its members, who should therefore strive towards the following purposes: 1) to be an individual of the highest academic merit, 2) provide service to the school and community, 3) demonstrate a desire to improve medical education, and 4) show potential for contributing to the advancement of medicine.

According to the AOA national constitution, criteria for selection focuses primarily on scholastic achievement but should not be the sole criteria; leadership capabilities, ethical standards, fairness in dealing with colleagues, potential for achievement in medicine, and a record of service to the school and community at large should be considered in addition to the academic record.

To be eligible for AOA application, you must be in the top 25% of your class, but no more than 16% of the class may ultimately be selected for membership. Traditionally, the top 4% are selected during their junior year, and the remainder of the top 16% is selected during their senior year. Membership requires active participation via attending scheduled meetings, contributing to AOA service/educational activities, and upholding the ethical standards of the society.