SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDING

NASS is committed to supporting Native medical students and surgical trainees as they advance in their careers. Recognizing the financial burden associated with professional development, we offer scholarships to assist with travel expenses for conferences, away/sub-internship rotations, and other essential career-building opportunities.

Applicants must be Native medical students or surgical trainees who demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous health and the advancement of Native representation in surgery. Scholarships are awarded based on need, merit, and alignment with NASS’s mission. Application details, including deadlines and required materials, can be found on our website.

These scholarships are made possible through generous donations and the dedication of our community. If you would like to contribute to the advancement of Native surgical trainees, consider making a donation to NASS.

Lyndsay Kandi standing next to the "Phoenix Indian Medical Center" as part of her elective medical student rotation sites.

visiting rotations

Fourth-year Native medical students applying to surgical specialties often complete away rotations to strengthen their residency applications and build connections within programs. NASS offers financial assistance to help cover travel and lodging costs associated with these sub-internships, ensuring students can access the best opportunities to advance their surgical careers.

Conference Travel Scholarships

Attending conferences is a crucial step in networking, gaining exposure to new research, and engaging with mentors in the field. NASS provides travel scholarships to help cover costs for Native medical students, residents, and fellows who wish to present research or participate in key surgical meetings. These scholarships ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to professional development opportunities.

Eligibility and Application Process

Applicants must be members of NASS and medical students or surgical trainees who demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous health and/or the advancement of Native representation in surgery. Scholarships are awarded based on need, merit, and alignment with NASS’ mission (maximum funding of $1,000).

Please fill out below form to apply for funding through NASS.