HISTORY
Many African-American students have pursued medical careers but due to various factors, changed their minds and pursued something else. FAAPS was formed in an attempt to redirect discouragement into fuel for the progression of future minorities in the medical field. On November 9, 1998, the founding members known as the "FAAPS Six", formed the Family of African-American Premedical Students. These students were Carlton E. Robinson, Jr., Chad O. Johnson, Tiffany Goldsmith, Keisha L. Fant, Michael A.R. Simmons, and Folami Geter. The six founders established the organization with the purpose of preparing and supporting minority students for medical school by means of a family environment.

WHY AMPS?
The name was specifically chosen to illustrate the close-knit family atmosphere among all AMPS members as we matriculate from USC into professional school. The organization incorporated a logo to symbolize our mission and goals. The medical field insignia symbolizes members' dedication to the pursuit of a medical/health career. The ankh, an ancient African symbol, represents life and fertility. The two symbols interwoven reflect the true essence of AMPS and our desire to positively affect the quality of life for all people.

BENEFITS
As a USC student and active AMPS member, you will have access to the Office of Pre-Professional Advising and its Resource Room filled with information, books, and practice exams for medical school. In addition, AMPS members are eligible to attend tours of medical and health-related professional schools, participate in job shadowing, attend panel discussions with local physicians, etc. More importantly, as a AMPS member, you establish strong ties and long-lasting relationships with your peers during your transition into medical or health professional school!

INVOLVEMENT
There are various committees within AMPS dedicated to specific needs of the organization. These committees are open to all active members:

• Fundraising
  develops effective fundraising efforts throughout the year
  
• Publicity
  publicizes events and maintains open communication on campus with students, faculty and staff
  
• Membership
  recruits new members and maintains membership database
  
• Community Service
  develops an array of health-related service projects in the Columbia area
  
• Programming
  develops programs, speakers and professional school tours