Thursday, December 20, 2012

Iota Epsilon Alpha – International Medical Honor Society


To be awarded a membership position into Iota Epsilon Alpha means you are in the top percentages of your class. When first joining IEA, you will have the opportunity to eat at the University Club with fellow inductees. The food here was the best we have eaten since being in Grenada. Prior to filling your stomach with the scrumptious meal, there are a few speeches and certificates given out to each new member which take roughly an hour. Only spouses are allowed as guests for the induction dinner. You will sit in a table of six and have a chance to mingle with fellow members.

You are required to have a minimum of 90% in all of your classes during term 1 to join IEA in term 2. Many IEA members I have talked to said that bioethics was the one class that prevented them from becoming members in term 2. A cumulative of at least 88% is required to join in terms 4 or 5. Membership is only awarded during the first two years of the basic sciences. You must maintain this average throughout medical school to graduate as a member of IEA. A cord of distinction is given when you walk across the stage in New York.

You will need to fulfill certain amounts of “Honor Points” (academic and community services) each term. I had to complete two hours of academic services (DES, tutoring, anatomy mock) and two hours of community services. For the latter portion, you have the opportunity to participate in the planning, organizing, preparation, hosting, or just being part of the various school activities IEA is involved with (Wii tournament, talent show, dodgeball tournament). There are also two mandatory meetings near the beginning and end of each term. The first meeting summarizes what was accomplished in the previous term and welcomes new members. The second meeting consists of speeches given by potential candidates for board positions followed by voting.

IEA is an amazing society that gives back to the community. From helping out the Significant Others Organization to donating equipment to the local hospital, IEA has contributed to many facets of Grenada. It is such a rewarding experience that I strongly encourage anyone who meets the requirements to join.

You can find out more information about Iota Epsilon Alpha at: 
If these decadent desserts aren't incentive enough, I don't know what is. 

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