Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA)AOA is a national medical honor society organized in 1902. The Northwestern chapter was founded in 1903. It is composed of undergraduate, graduate, and honorary members selected on the basis of scholastic achievement and significant contributions in medicine. AOA by charter allows each Chapter to consider for nomination up to 25% of the medical school class. That group is defined by academic performance in the first two years (top 25% of Structure – Function and Scientific Basis of Medicine test scores, nominations from PPS1 & 2) and the required third year clerkships completed up until August 31 of the final year. Students receive weighted points for Honors or High Pass grades received in the required clerkships. These are also weighted by the duration of the clerkship. Credit is given to students whose USMLE Step 1 score is in the top 25% of the class. Once all of the possible points for each student have been determined, then the top 25% is identified. This is the group of students that the Selection Committee nominates and considers for membership. The nomination and selection process occurs in time for the information to be included in the student’s MSPE for residency applications. The Selection Committee, a group of faculty who are themselves AOA members and have considerable experience in our educational programs, considers all students in the top 25% of the class. The nominees are contacted and asked to submit their curriculum vitae to complete the application. Nominees are evaluated in 5 categories: Awards received in medical school, Research performed in medical school, Publications accomplished during medical school, Community Service performed while in medical school, and evidence of Leadership in the medical school. Each student's application package is evaluated by at least 2 reviewers and if there is a discrepancy between the two then a third evaluator is called upon. Letters of recommendation are not necessary and will not be considered by the Committee. Considerable discussion by the Committee occurs on selection day as each candidate is given thorough consideration. Each of the candidates are ranked numerically based on the criteria above. The top 16% of the class is selected and notified. | 
