The Student AOAO group began in 2006 and stems from the vision of a student run organization under the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics (AOAO, Academy). The field of orthopedics is a specialty that is growing in importance and popularity. The founders of the student AOAO believe that students interested in the specialty of orthopedic surgery can contribute to growth and success of AOAO. The Academy itself was formed in 1941, receiving its official recognition by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) in 1950. This idea is not novel. For example, in 1989 students banded together to initiate a surgical society known as SOSA. That club grew substantially and today students in osteopathic schools across the country pool their knowledge to hold conferences, gain experience in and obtain a residency in the demanding field of surgery. Our goal is to enable every osteopathic school to join this mission.
The AOAO offers student memberships to established local chapters of orthopedic clubs at each nationally accredited osteopathic school. For more information on how to become a member or establish an orthopedic club/interest group at your school please contact the SAOAO National President at studentaoao@gmail.com.
Complete and send the following to Karl Swanson, National Recruitment Chair, at swansonk7@rowan.edu.
- Organize a Chapter Roster in an Excel spreadsheet. Your spreadsheet must include all chapter members and officers with the following fields: Last Name, First Name, Email, Phone #, Mailing address, Graduation Year, and Officer positions.
- A Copy of Your Chapter Bylaws from this template.
- A Completed Chapter Advisor Form.
- A Petition Letter for membership with the SAOAO to your SGA.
All Chapter members just join SAOAO online.
Online Student Member Application
SAOAO Member Benefits
We are an organization dedicated to providing as much help as possible to motivated students such as yourself in your endeavor to become a resident in orthopedic surgery. Below you will find information about the benefits offered by the SAOAO and how to access everything you need.
Keep in Touch Through Social Media
Facebook
Search “Student AOAO Page”
- Obtain direct and personal access to the SAOAO national executives
- Communicate one-on-one with students who know what you need to be successful.
- Utilize the discussion board to “speak” one-on-one with the students ahead of you.
- Discuss orthopedic journals or share conference costs.
Instagram
Search aoaostudentdocs
Educational Resources for Students of all Levels
We understand that musculoskeletal education at most medical schools is limited to a few weeks of MSK class, gross anatomy and OMM. SAOAO has created a list of the books and websites on which most orthopedic surgeons and residents frequently rely. If you use these resources, you will have an advanced understanding of orthopedic surgery and the musculoskeletal system.
This list is currently available through Facebook. Search “Student AOAO Page” and look under notes.
AOAO Conferences
One way to increase your chances of achieving an orthopedic residency is to meet residency directors and residents. Attending AOAO conferences is a great way to show interest and network.
SAOAO members received discounted registration at AOAO conferences and can enter poster presentation contests. Plus SAOAO elections and special student events will keep you educated, involved and prepare you for audition rotations. Find out more about conferences at www.aoao.org and on Facebook at “Student AOAO Page.”
Mentor/Shadowing Opportunities
A letter of recommendation from one orthopedic surgeon to another can go a long way in helping you obtain an orthopedic residency. We can help set you up with a surgeon in your area or associated with the residency program you are looking to apply to. All of our mentors have requested to act as preceptors, so you won’t be turned down. Contact us at studentaoao@gmail.com for more information.
SAOAO Member Protected Website
Once you join you will have access to the Student Forum, Residency Frequently Asked Questions, SAOAO Book Discounts, a list of approved ortho preceptors and a variety of educational presentations.
SAOAO Chapters are asked to update their Chapter Roster each year with the SAOAO. Send an Excel spreadsheet with all members. For new members include the Last Name, First Name, Email, Phone #, Mailing address, Graduation Year. The spreadsheet should also include all Officer positions. Send your updated spreadsheet to Karl Swanson, National Recruitment Chair, at swansonk7@rowan.edu in the beginning of the school year.
Get involved with current Osteopathic Medical School students who are interested in Orthopedics, sign up for the SAOAO Mentorship Program
Please fill out the following form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdC_pNdltQCZO55JatfzpS_-FnH50E-YdxP74KEo7CfObHfuw/viewform?usp=sf_link
Student members click here for the Member Protected SAOAO page. Need help with your log in?