The Student Advocates Association (SAA) and the Intern and Resident Advocates Associaiton (IRAA): YOUR OSTEOPATHIC FAMILY

An SAA/IRAA member understands the importance of interaction and expression of emotions. As a spouse/significant other of an osteopathic medical school student, inter, or resident your experiences are different from typical relationships. Time alone, independence, and sole decision-making often adds stress to any marriage. Coupling these stressors with a young physician's schedule, study patterns, and educationally related travel requires outside support. The Advocates for the American Osteopathic Association is here to offer our support.

A unique nationwide support system comprised of student spouses and significant others, osteopathic family members, resident spouses/significant others, and faculty provide an opportunity for support and understanding.

Benefits of SAA/IRAA membership include a sense of autonomy and understanding, nationwide networking opportunities, participation and involvement opportunities with national committees and conventions, a National SAA Advisor and IRAA Liaison who will help guide you through the AAOA, and a family of osteopathic medical professionals who know and understand the trials associated with medical school, internship, and residency.

Interested in starting an SAA or IRAA chapter at your school or residency site?  Want to get involved? Email the National SAA Advisor, Sherri Martin at slhmartin@aol.com or the IRAA Liaison, Tiffany Sweeney at tifsweeney@gmail.com.  They are here to help and offer support.