Implementing a Pre-matriculation Program Targeting Self-Efficacy, Institutional Belongingness, and Metacognition.

Students come to medical school with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Accordingly, many schools have developed pre-matriculation programs to support students' transition into medical education, especially for those whose educational path may not have offered the same breath of opportunities as their incoming counterparts. Baylor College of Medicine established a pre-matriculation program for students from early assurance programs and non-traditional pathways to address gaps in student support and normalize help-seeking behavior. This program took place over 2 weeks and was developed with leadership and student partners. Participants included 21 students who completed baseline and post-program surveys. Results indicated that a focus on self-efficacy, institutional belongingness, and metacognition can lead to improvements in these constructs. Findings supported that students were satisfied and would encourage future students to participate. Through cross-office collaboration, planning, and necessary funding, a pre-matriculation program is feasible and can demonstrate meaningful impact.