Diversity
Feinberg embraces a broad definition of diversity that includes not only students from racial and ethnic groups underrepresented in medicine, but also other religious, gender and sexual identities, persons with disabilities and socioeconomic diversity. Learn more below.
Are diversity-related health issues part of the Feinberg curriculum?
How open and inclusive is the Feinberg environment to LGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff?
The Feinberg School of Medicine is welcoming to all groups from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Feinberg is home to the Northwestern Chicago Out Network, a social network of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. Participants include students, faculty and staff from Northwestern schools and clinical affiliates on the Chicago campus. In addition, the student group Feinberg LGBTQ+ Alliance offers educational and other resources to students, faculty and staff. The group also provides information for prospective students.
I identify as LGBTQ+. Should I “come out” in my application?
We understand that coming out is a very personal decision and that many factors may influence your decision to be "out" in your medical school applications. Feinberg encourages students to be "out" in their applications, as we value diversity in all its forms and consider LGBTQ+ people underrepresented in medicine. Our admissions committee members receive special training to better understand LGBTQ+ issues and how LGBTQ+ life experiences strengthen an applicant. On the secondary application, we provide an optional question to indicate whether you identify as LGBTQ+ and an essay wherein we ask for your personal narrative in which you can describe your experiences in detail.
Is there a way for students to identify underrepresented in medicine faculty mentors?
Feinberg has a long-standing commitment to diversity and excellence. The Office of Diversity & Inclusion works with Feinberg students, residents, staff and faculty to further the mission to achieve a campus environment of belonging and inclusion for all. Mentoring programs are a key element to facilitate this initiative. The Office of Diversity & Inclusion will facilitate mentorship connections between students, faculty and residents that will foster career explorations and development, scholarship and collegiality. Events featuring students and faculty begin the first week of classes.
Does Feinberg interact with LGBTQ+ communities in Chicago? If so, how can students get involved?
Yes, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine partners with organizations both on and off campus to deliver programming for current and prospective students. Northwestern Chicago Out Network is a group that began several years ago informally and quickly became a regular social networking group for the support and encouragement of LGBT faculty, staff, students, fellows and residents on the Northwestern Chicago campus. There are several LGBTQ+ resources on and off campus: AMSA’s Gender & Sexuality Committee, Gay Lesbian Medical Association and the Northwestern University Pride Alumni Club.
How can I get in contact with LGBTQ+ current students to learn more?
Applicants may email officers of the student group Feinberg LGBTQ+ Alliance to learn more. Interviewing students are invited to meet with current LGBTQ+ students as part of the Reach OUT program. Additionally, applicants are welcome to contact our Office of DIversity and Inclusion (diversitymed@northwestern.edu) for additional information on our LGBTQ+ community and resources available.
