Our Programs

LaRaMA members regularly participate in community health fairs for underserved communities; in social activities that promote fellowship among UICCOM students and foster ties between LaRaMA members; and, in fundraisers for various programs and scholarships. Some of our annual programs and activities are listed below.

Dr. Jose Ignacio Choca Scholarship

At least two scholarships (ranging from $500 to $1000) are offered annually to graduating high school seniors who have gained admission to college for the upcoming Fall semester and plan to pursue medicine or a medically-related profession (medicine and/or dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, etc.). This scholarship is also open to incoming UIC-COM first year students.

• Read about Dr. Jose Choca
• 2008-2009 Dr. Choca Scholarship Application

Big sib/little sib

This program helps ease the incoming students through their transition to medical school. First year medical students (M1s), who are NNLAMS-LaRaMA members, are assigned to volunteering second year medical students (M2s) who advise the M1s through the challenges they face in their first year of med school. Big sibs are great sources of academic advice and may lend their previous year's notes and books for the little sib's benefit.

Medicina Hispana Medical Spanish Courses

During the fall semester members of LaRaMA offer their skills and time to educate participants on how to better communicate and understand the Spanish language to promote better health services to Spanish-speaking populations. All proceeds to this educational program are divided to benefit the Community Health Clinic and the Dr. Choca Scholarship.

Food Fiesta

For this fundraiser we provide a taste of various Latin American foods prepared by La RaMA members and generous local restaurants. During lunch hour UIC faculty and students gather in the UIC-COM student lounge (Edelstone) for a generous helping of savory foods and sweet treats while expanding their cultural awareness. Profits benefit the Dr. Choca Scholarship.

LaRaMA Banquet

We hold a dinner banquet to celebrate a school year's end, offer best wishes to our M4s, and recognize the service and accomplishments of our students, staff, and community leaders. All are invited to attend and bring their family and friends!

Salsa Nights

A favorite among students and faculty, salsa nights are led by an instructor who will teach all dancers the steps and to feel the music! Any and all proceeds are donated to our health fairs and scholarships.

In addition to local events, LaRaMA members attend the NNLAMS National Conference where they can learn about issues facing Latino and other patient populations on the national level, can provide insight into local issues, can network with other medical students and physicians, and can become more culturally competent future physicians. Please visit NNLAMS for further details and dates.