One of the first student-led organizations established by the inaugural class at the University of Minnesota Medical School CentraCare Regional Campus in St. Cloud, the Primary Care Interest Group, is already making a meaningful impact on the student experience.
The organization was created to foster connection, mentorship, and enthusiasm for primary care among medical students.
“Because our pioneer class didn't have senior classmates on site to welcome us when we started, we wanted to ensure the incoming students had that support system right from day one,” said second-year medical student Jared Nordstrom.
To kick off the new academic year, the Primary Care Interest Group recently hosted its first Primary Care Skills Night for first- and second-year medical students. The event combined hands-on clinical learning with opportunities for mentorship and relationship building between classes.
Students participated in a variety of practical skills sessions, including:
Basic suturing
FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma) ultrasound examinations
Peripheral IV placement
Ultrasound-guided IV placement
The event offered students an engaging introduction to clinical skills while helping bridge the gap between foundational classroom learning and early patient care experiences. It also provided valuable opportunities for second-year students (MS2s) to mentor incoming MS1s and share insights from their first year of medical school.
Beyond skill development, the evening highlighted the growing culture of student leadership and involvement at the St. Cloud campus. As a student-led initiative, the event encouraged new learners to explore leadership opportunities, become involved in campus organizations, and help shape the future of the medical school community.
The Primary Care Interest Group's efforts reflect the collaborative spirit that continues to define the CentraCare Regional Campus. By creating opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and early clinical exposure, student leaders are helping build a strong foundation for future physicians while strengthening the sense of community among themselves.