Empowering Future Vascular Leaders Across Borders

The South Asian American Vascular Society (SAAVS) Global Scholarship is a transformative initiative designed to support and mentor emerging vascular surgeons, with a focus on fostering global collaboration, promoting educational excellence, and developing the next generation of leaders in vascular surgery.

We believe that by investing in future vascular talent, we not only help advance surgical care across borders, but also cultivate a diverse and collaborative professional community. Our scholars return from their experiences with new skills, meaningful networks, and fresh perspectives—equipped to drive impactful change in their local health systems and beyond.

About the Scholarship

The SAAVS Global Scholarship supports medical students, residents, or early-career professionals interested in exploring vascular surgery in a South Asian context. Recipients receive up to $2,000 to support travel to a South Asian country of their choosing.

Scholars are responsible for designing their own travel experience—including arranging their itinerary, site visits, and any observerships or educational opportunities. The scholarship is primarily intended to offset the cost of airfare, though funds may be applied toward other travel-related expenses as needed.

This program is designed to promote independent exploration, cultural exchange, and a deeper understanding of global vascular care through firsthand experience in South Asia.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be medical students, residents, or early-career professionals based in the United States with a demonstrated interest in vascular surgery
• Demonstrate a commitment to global health through clinical training, research, or education focused on improving vascular care in South Asia
• Be able to independently arrange travel and observership opportunities in a South Asian country
• Be in good academic or professional standing at their current institution

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit:

• Completed Online Application Form
• Current CV
• Personal Statement – Please include a brief statement outlining your career goals and how this scholarship will contribute to your training or research. Be sure to explain why you are a strong candidate for this opportunity. For example, you may describe what interests you aboutvascular surgery or share experiences that have shaped your decision to pursue a career in this field.
• One Letter of Recommendation – This should come from a mentor, faculty member, or supervisor who can speak to your qualifications, character, and commitment to the field.

Applications are reviewed by the SAAVS Board of Directors. Selected scholars will be notified
and provided with funding to support their participation in the program.

Scholarship Recipient Expectations

Recipients of the SAAVS Global Scholarship are expected to:

• Independently arrange their travel, itinerary, and observership or research experience in
  a South Asian country
• Communicate professionally with host institutions and represent SAAVS in a respectful and collegial manner
• Use scholarship funds responsibly to support travel-related expenses
• Notify SAAVS of any major changes to their travel plans or experience
• Submit a 1-page summary report within 4 weeks of completing travel, including a brief reflection on the experience and at least one photograph (with appropriate permissions) that may be used in SAAVS communications or promotional materials

Failure to meet these expectations may impact eligibility for future opportunities through SAAVS.

Acknowledgement

By submitting this application, I acknowledge that I have read and understood the scholarship
details, deadlines, and expectations outlined above. If selected for a grant, I agree to fulfill
these expectations to the best of my ability and to represent the South Asian American Vascular
Society in a professional and respectful manner throughout the duration of the scholarship
experience.