The Vertically Integrated Trainee Program (VITP): Continued Progress Connecting Undergraduate and Medical Students

The Vertically Integrated Trainee Program (VITP), now rebranded as MedConnect, at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia, is transforming the pathway for premedical students by fostering mentorship, reducing disparities, and creating sustainable opportunities for those without traditional connections to the field.    This episode of SMA's Physicians-in-Training Podcast explores the program's mission, vision, and guiding principles, as well as the unique aspects that set it apart. Moderated by Donald DiPette, MD, FACP, FAHA, Logan Hitchcock, BS; Greyson Fox Tran, BS; Buckley McCall, BS, MD; and Jaron Pettis, MD, share insights on the origins of VITP, the role of mentorship in preventing burnout, and the evolving direction of MedConnect as it expands into new academic and clinical spaces. Listen as they discuss the challenges facing today's premedical students, the program's long-term sustainability, and the impact it has had on aspiring physicians.   About the GuestsLogan Hitchcock, BS MD Candidate/Class of 2027 University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia Greyson Fox Tran, BS MD Candidate/Class of 2026 University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia Buckley McCall, BS, MD PRISMA Health - Upstate Chair, SMA's Physicians-in-Training Committee Jaron Pettis, MD Northwest Health General Surgery Donald DiPette, MD, FACP, FAHA University Of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia SMA President, 2017-2018