The Affinity Group is the name given to an educational and advising program which links students with faculty in small groups based upon their similar interests.
Affinity Groups have both educational and advising roles and are a program requirement.
Affinity Groups match students with physicians and other health care professionals in small mentoring groups around areas of common interest. Affinity Groups provide a format for early clinical experiences, community interactions and the pursuit of creative learning opportunities. The faculty who lead the affinity groups serve as the faculty advisors for the students in the group. Groups arrange their own meetings, which are usually in the late afternoon or early evening, and include an informal light dinner. On average, groups meet weekly or biweekly, avoiding exam periods.