5 Tips for Medical Students Looking to Get an Op-Ed Published
Medical students have a unique perspective in the healthcare field, armed with both passion and knowledge. One way for them to express their views and advocate for change is through op-ed writing. At the recent AMA ChangeMedEd conference, presenters Alexandra Beem and Lahari Vuppaladhadiam shared their insights on how medical students can get their op-eds published. Here are five tips they offered:
-
Tell a story: Medical students are already skilled in storytelling, thanks to the writing required in the admissions process. Incorporating personal experiences into an op-ed can make it more relatable and impactful.
-
Timeliness matters: Op-eds tied to current events are more likely to be published. Make sure your topic is relevant and timely to increase your chances of getting published.
-
Follow your passions: Let your passion drive your choice of topic. When you are genuinely interested in a subject, it will come through in your writing and resonate with readers.
-
Spell out action steps: Offer concrete solutions or steps that can be taken to address the issue you are discussing. Op-eds require more than just opinions; they require actionable steps for change.
- Narrow the focus: Instead of trying to cover a broad topic, focus on one specific issue or aspect. This targeted approach can make your argument more effective and impactful.
By following these tips, medical students can effectively use op-ed writing as a tool for advocacy and making their voices heard in the healthcare community. So, if you’re a medical student looking to get your opinions published, consider these tips and start shaping the future of medicine through your writing.
