The goal of the Rural Physician Mentor Network is to serve as a statewide network aimed at increasing awareness, interest, and networking opportunities between medical students at the Carver College of Medicine and the CRISP-eligible specialties.

Access the Rural Physician Mentor Network (HawkID login required)

The Rural Physician Mentor Network was established in 2025 as a result of a collective capstone project completed by the CRISP graduates in the MD class of 2025. The network continues to grow through the efforts of a CRISP student in the MD class of 2026.

Program Description

As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to connect with a first-year medical student and provide them with information regarding your practice in a rural community. The mentor-mentee relationship, preferred communication, and/or potential shadowing opportunities will be determined by you and the student. Our goal of this paired relationship is to provide an opportunity to learn more about rural practice, as data shows that early exposure increases the likelihood of individuals practicing in a rural community. 

If you are interested in this opportunity, we will add your name and contact information to a rural Iowa mentorship list that students can access and reach out based on specialty interests or by locations across the state. Although our primary target is first-year medical students, this list will be accessible to all students at the Carver College of Medicine to give everyone an equal opportunity to explore rural medicine and network with physicians across the state.