Twelve tips for developing equitable academic extracurricular activities

Medical students often engage with a range of extracurricular activities (ECAs) including academic activities such as research projects, peer teaching and curriculum development projects. Studies have reported the benefits of academic ECAs including the development of social and leadership skills; higher retention rates; heightened self-confidence; peer bonding; improved satisfaction; and greater postgraduate success. However, not all students are equally positioned to take advantage of such opportunities. This paper presents twelve tips to facilitate the development of equitable academic ECAs. By considering the advice offered, faculty should be able to implement ECA opportunities that are open to all interested students.