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:
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| If these decadent desserts aren't incentive enough, I don't know what is. |
