As a rising fourth year medical student applying into a competitive surgical subspecialty, I have noticed an increased emphasis on DEI in the field, particularly at historically highly ranking institutions. As an "ORM", I have always felt somewhat conflicted. On one hand, I am grateful for academia's progress in including traditionally marginalized groups. On the other hand, I feel like these movements have never included me or my racial group, who also often faces discrimination, racism, and negative bias. I am also doubtful of the authenticity of these movements from those in positions of power (who are generally not from marginalized groups and are only advocating for them after already achieving success themselves) because I believe these initiatives are for show due to the current popularity of DEI in academia.
I have a strong application (multiple connected mentors in the field, well-published, strong clinicals) but have felt conflicted lately as I heard from a reliable source in my home residency program that they have set demographic quotas for selecting residents. I understand the importance of DEI, however, it's difficult for me to accept that certain minorities are not included under this label of "diversity". Honestly, I'm troubled by the idea of favoring candidates based on their demographics in general. Does anyone else feel conflicted about this?
I have a strong application (multiple connected mentors in the field, well-published, strong clinicals) but have felt conflicted lately as I heard from a reliable source in my home residency program that they have set demographic quotas for selecting residents. I understand the importance of DEI, however, it's difficult for me to accept that certain minorities are not included under this label of "diversity". Honestly, I'm troubled by the idea of favoring candidates based on their demographics in general. Does anyone else feel conflicted about this?