Juliet Jacobson, MD

Member-at-Large New York Presbyterian Cornell Columbia

Candidate Statement

I am running to continue my position on the SAEM RAMS board to foster open communication, collaboration, and continuous improvement in medical education. My primary goal is to support learners throughout their medical careers, not just during medical school and residency. I aim to help SAEM compile its outstanding resources into a user-friendly platform where medical students and residents can easily access webinars, guidebooks, and articles on topics ranging from research and grant funding to medical education and mental health support. By continually enhancing this repository, I aspire to develop tools and references that adapt with us throughout all stages of our careers, ultimately enriching our learning environment and elevating the specialty of emergency medicine.

Before entering medical school, I taught 6th-grade math and science in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, teaching 120 students. This experience ignited my passion for education and inspired me to give back during my gap year. I quickly learned that a communication gap often exists between educators and learners. Many of my students assumed I understood their feelings and needs, yet few voiced their concerns. To best support them, I actively encouraged open dialogue, deepening my understanding of their challenges as learners and individuals.

Transitioning back to being a learner (in medical school) just a month after completing my teaching role, I noticed my medical school classmates frequently expressed frustrations regarding faculty and administrative decisions. When I inquired whether they communicated their concerns, the typical response was, “No, but I’m sure they know.” This disconnect further illuminated the frustration and dissatisfaction prevalent on both sides.

Two months into my journey at New York Medical College, I was elected to the school’s curriculum committee as a liaison between students and faculty. In this role, I advocated for student concerns and facilitated communication of faculty expertise back to my peers. During my tenure on the committee, I witnessed firsthand how eager professors were to assist once they received feedback. On the committee, we designed and implemented a new systems-based, shortened preclinical curriculum. We also established open feedback surveys and monthly town halls to facilitate ongoing dialogue between students and faculty.

As a resident at NYP Cornell and Columbia, I contribute to our residency recruitment board, developed peer-to-peer evaluations during shifts, and volunteer for college outreach programs. I also mentor current medical students and remain passionate about medical education.

As a member of the SAEM Wellness Committee this year, I have contributed to initiatives supporting the well-being of residents and medical students, including developing articles on suicide prevention and creating resources for the Stop the Stigma Campaign. Additionally, I have organized webinars teaching medical students and residents how to apply for grants and secure funding for research.

Through my continued work on the RAMS board, I hope to bridge the gap between learners and educators. By focusing on well-being, constructive feedback, and accessible resources, I believe we can cultivate an enriching learning environment that empowers all members of our community. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving on the SAEM RAMS board and contribute to our collective growth and success in emergency medicine.
DSC02139 - Juliet Jacobson