Why Join?
GMI is an entirely student-run non-profit organization. As such, it requires that its members perform all the functions of a non-profit organization. The roles of the organization can be arranged in the following manner:
- Governing
- Fund-raising
- Budgeting
- Programming
- Volunteering
Each of these roles requires unique talents that span across the spectrum of curriculum pursuits. For example, governing requires a background in leadership and creative problem-solving, while fund-raising requires strong interpersonal skills. Budgeting requires basic knowledge of finance and accounting to manage a sizable budget, while programming and volunteering require a knowledge of the Organization’s cause and the current state of global health care. Thus, GMI is more than just a health-based non-profit organization. GMI is an opportunity for immersion.
GMI offers students an intimate, first-hand experience in the fields of health care, economics, health policy, management, international studies, and in some cases, even language immersion. In comparison to internships at large organizations where one’s role may seem marginal or tangential to the “Big Picture”, at GMI, every student is an integral part of the Organization’s workings.
Furthermore, GMI offers students the opportunity to volunteer extensively as part of their membership requirements. From volunteering abroad on our Survey and Service trips to volunteering locally at MedWish International, University Hospitals, and other areas, students have access to a variety of enriching social experiences.
What does this mean for prospective members?
Planning on graduating with a degree in Business?
Check out Benefits of Non-Profit Experience, from AdmissionConsultants.com, which highlights the edge students gain by working for non-profit organizations. The article emphasizes the role that Warren Buffet and Bill Gates have played in boosting the demand for Management skills in the non-profit sector.
Planning on pursuing a career in Medicine?
Check out this article, “Getting In”, straight from the American Association of Medical Colleges. The article emphasizes as one of the 6 main points that Medical Schools look for “extracurricular activities: especially those reflecting public or health-related service, volunteer work, and other evidence of your initiative.”
Still not sure whether you want to get involved? Come to a meeting. Attend an event. Talk to a member. Whatever you do, don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Become a part of GMI.
How to Join
Joining GMI is easy. Each of our members acts as an agent for recruiting new members. Membership begins by either submitting the form below, or by contacting any of our members and asking him or her to relay your email and contact information to our Board. Once your information is added to our database, you will receive emails and reminders about all of our upcoming meetings and events. All students are welcome and encouraged to attend our meetings and events.
For students wishing to integrate themselves with GMI’s programming and identity, the next level of membership entails participation in one of the many events-based committees chaired by Board members. These committees provide members with insight into the inner workings of the organization, and they offer students with leadership potential a chance to showcase their initiative.
Finally, only those members who have consistently displayed outstanding leadership, creative vision, and sincere commitment are considered for Board positions at the end of each Fall Term. The Board members are then charged with governing and coordinating all the functions of the Organization. Board members also work closely with professors and staff who serve as faculty advisers. For these reasons, Board positions are highly demanding, and equally rewarding.