University of California, Los Angeles
Emergency Medicine Research Associates

FAQ

What does EMRA look for in its applicants?
EMRA is a pre-professional program that provides learning opportunities for future medical researchers and practitioners. Since we are involved directly in a level-one trauma center with patients and staff, we have to ensure that our associates have demonstrated themselves to be outstanding students. We screen for academic and personal excellence in our candidates. More importantly, we screen for students who have demonstrated themselves to go above and beyond for their learning experiences. While it is important we find students who match our program, it is also important that our program is a match for the potential research associate.

Does reapplying help my chances?
Yes and no. Re-applicants are looked upon favorably. However, reviewers will be analyzing what changes you have made between your previous and current application.

I was not accepted, now what?
The majority of applicants do not get accepted. This does not mean your application was necessarily substandard. We have hundreds of applicants with outstanding track records and who would make great research associates (and even future health care professionals). However, we are limited in the amount of students we can take. You may request for interview feedback and are always encouraged to apply again.

Can I still apply if I will not be here over the summer?
EMRA operates 8am-midnight, 365 days a year. We do not recommend applying if you will be out of town for the duration of the summer.

Who should I select as my reference?       
You should select someone who can attest to the quality of your personal and professional character from extensive experience. This could be a teacher, professor, mentor, employer, supervisor, volunteer director, or research principal investigator. We do not accept family references.

What is the time commitment for EMRA?       
One year commitment to the program beginning at the completion of your training, including all holidays and school breaks. The weekly time commitment includes a 4-hour hospital shift in addition to at least 2 hours dedicated to staying up-to-date on studies. We have 2 general meetings per quarter, each 2-3 hours in length. Additional time commitment depends on involvement in one or many of our outstanding committees.