Scholars Program
The Future of Mental Health and Aging.
Scholars Program
The Future of Mental Health and Aging.
Join the Movement...
We live in a time in which global society is experiencing a true shortage of psychiatrists to meet the ever-increasing demand for quality care for today’s growing population of elders. AAGP’s answer to this dilemma is to provide you an unforgettable experience that will stay with you the rest of your life.
61% of Scholars Pursue Geriatric Psychiatry
400+ Scholars Trained
20+ Years
What is the Scholars Program?
The AAGP Scholars Program has been shaping the next generation of geriatric psychiatrists since 2010.
Built for medical students and early-career residents, the Scholars Program is more than a training experience — it's a launching pad. You'll immerse yourself in the field alongside peers who share your curiosity, guided by mentors who are invested in your long-term success.
What you'll gain:
- Direction. Discover whether geriatric psychiatry is your calling — through hands-on learning, not guesswork.
- Mentorship that lasts. You'll be matched with an experienced geriatric psychiatrist who will guide your scholarly project and stay connected long after the annual meeting ends.
- Confidence. Leave inspired and ready — with the skills, knowledge, and network to take your next step.
- Purpose. This field needs you. Older adults living with mental illness deserve compassionate, expert care — and this program prepares you to provide it.
“I have benefited both as a Scholar and as a mentor, and my continued participation over the years is a highlight of my membership in AAGP. This unique program provides world class mentoring, career guidance, opportunities for networking and professional growth, and friendship.”
- Jordan F. Karp, MD, Professor and Chair,
University of Arizona Department of Psychiatry
Benefits
- The Scholars Program includes a full day of programming specific to trainees, a mentor-mentee luncheon, and opportunities to meet program directors and attend AAGP committees/caucuses, as well as general sessions
- Each Scholar is paired with an AAGP mentor based on career preference and supervised on the completion of a scholarly project
- Registration fee for the AAGP Annual Meeting will be covered
- $300 to defray the cost of travel to the annual meeting
- 2-night stay at onsite meeting hotel
Eligibility
The Scholars Program is for medical student and resident (PGY 1-3) trainees interested in the prospect of pursuing Geriatric Psychiatry fellowship. The program provides a comprehensive and engaging platform to learn more about our field through small group sessions, interactive speed career sessions and inspirational speakers. Additionally, the Scholars program offers mentorship, career development and professional growth in an engaging, warm and collegial environment. The opportunity to network, participate actively in AAGP committees and caucuses and attend nationally renowned educational sessions is unprecedented and only available through this program.
Requirements
By accepting the scholarship, Scholars agree to complete the following requirements:
- Completion of a scholarly project related to geriatric psychiatry over the course of the year (required for psychiatry residents, encouraged for medical students
- Have not completed the AAGP Scholars Program at this stage in their career (i.e., A medical student can apply again as a resident. A resident may not complete the program more than once during their residency.)
- Full participation in the 2027 AAGP Scholars Program at the 2027 AAGP Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA
Help Shape the Future of Geriatric Psychiatry
Become a Scholars Donor
Every year, AAGP Scholars brings promising medical students, residents, fellows, and early-career professionals together to explore careers in geriatric psychiatry, connect with leaders in the field, and build lifelong professional relationships.
Your generosity helps reduce financial barriers, expand educational opportunities, and ensure talented future clinicians can participate in this transformative experience.
Every gift directly supports the next generation of leaders in geriatric mental health.
Thank you to those who donated to the Scholars Donors! We appreciate your generosity and commitment.
Become a Mentor
Share your experience and help shape the future of geriatric psychiatry.
Mentors are matched with Scholars based on professional interests, geographic location, and career goals to foster meaningful connections that extend beyond the Annual Meeting.
As a mentor, you'll:
- Guide an emerging leader in the field
- Share career advice and professional insights
- Expand your own professional network
- Help strengthen the future workforce in geriatric mental health
We're seeking AAGP members who attend the Annual Meeting and are committed to supporting a Scholar throughout the year.