Anatomy Outreach as a Context for Professional Identity Development in Medical Students

<ns5:p>Purpose/Background Building Lasting Anatomical Skills Together (BLAST) is a student-led outreach program at our institution that introduces high school students to anatomy through medical student-led sessions. This study describes BLAST as an educational and community engagement initiative and explores how participation provides a context for professional identity formation (PIF) among medical students. Methods Survey data, including both quantitative responses and qualitative reflections, were collected from 30 medical students (M1-M4) who participated in BLAST. Qualitative responses were used to examine patterns and to identify themes related to professional identity development. Results Participation was highest during the preclerkship years, particularly among first-year medical students. Involvement in BLAST was associated with the development of communication and teaching skills, increased confidence, and opportunities for leadership and mentorship. Qualitative analysis revealed themes aligned with professional identity formation, including a sense of belonging within a professional community, developing beliefs about the physician’s role as educator, and a commitment to professional development. Conclusion BLAST offers a structured, student-led environment in which medical students engage in teaching experiences beyond the traditional medical school curriculum. The findings in this study suggest that anatomy outreach programs may serve as meaningful contexts for early professional identity formation by supporting the development of educator and communicator roles essential to future clinical practice.</ns5:p>