Fourth Annual Aliabadi-Kazim Scholars Program a Success!
During the week of May 19, 2025, the Department of Urology proudly hosted its fourth annual Aliabadi-Kazim Scholars Program (AKSP). AKSP provides early exposure to urology for first and second year medical students without a home urology program. This year, ten scholars, including our postdoctoral research associate, participated in clinical experiences, learning sessions, and professional development opportunities.
With guidance from faculty members representing each subspecialty, scholars took part in a comprehensive curriculum that encompassed areas such as endourology, urologic oncology, urogynecology, reconstruction, andrology, and pediatric urology. Many of these specialties incorporated simulation-based learning to reinforce hands-on skills. For example, pediatric urologists Drs. Duong Tu and Victor Figueroa demonstrated how to administer Deflux bladder injections, then guided the scholars as they performed the procedure themselves in the lab. The students also gained valuable experience practicing suturing techniques, participating in surgical skills training on the da Vinci Surgical System, using cystoscopes, and learning how to implement AdVance Slings. In addition to technical training, residency program director for the Department of Urology, Dr. Philipp Dahm, offered insight into the urology residency application and interview process, helping students better understand the path ahead. Scholars took part in mock interviews, received feedback on their personal statements, and attended a financial literacy session. Each morning, their learning was further enhanced by shadowing physicians and observing surgical procedures. To cap off an eventful and informative week, the group enjoyed attending the home opener of the Minnesota Lynx.
This program would not be possible without the generous support of Drs. Hossein Aliabadi and Mumtaz Kazim, as well as the faculty, residents, industry sponsors, and staff who kindly dedicated their time to mentor the next generation of urologists. Their commitment ensures that students leave the University of Minnesota Medical School not only with strengthened technical skills but also with a deeper appreciation for the field of urology. In fact, five scholars from previous cohorts have since matched with urology residency programs, a testament to the strength and impact of this initiative.
