Scott A. Gunder, MD, DCMS Presidential Scholarship
Offered by Dauphin County Medical Society and The Foundation of the Pennsylvania Medical Society
About this scholarship
The Scott A. Gunder, MD, DCMS Presidential Scholarship provides one $5,200 award for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Dauphin County Medical Society established the fund in memory of Dr. Gunder, a Harrisburg gastroenterologist, teacher, and former society president, and The Foundation of the Pennsylvania Medical Society administers the current application. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and bona fide Pennsylvania residents for at least 12 months before registering as medical students; time spent in the state solely for undergraduate or graduate education does not count. The scholarship is limited to second-year students enrolled full time at Penn State College of Medicine. Applicants must also be members of the Pennsylvania Medical Society and their county medical society. The direct portal requires a completed application, two nonfamily reference letters, and a Penn State College of Medicine letter on official letterhead confirming full-time second-year status. The essay, limited to 750 words, asks candidates to describe the person or event that most influenced their decision to become a physician and how they see themselves leading others into medicine. A personal interview is not normally required but may be requested. Applications close September 30, 2026, with decisions expected in December.
Eligibility
- Be a United States citizen
- Have been a bona fide Pennsylvania resident for at least 12 months before registering as a medical student, excluding time there for prior college study
- Be a second-year medical student enrolled full time at Penn State College of Medicine
- Be a member of the Pennsylvania Medical Society and county medical society
- Submit two nonfamily reference letters addressing integrity, interpersonal skills, and potential as a physician
- Provide a Penn State College of Medicine letter verifying full-time second-year enrollment
- Write an essay of 750 words or fewer about the influence behind choosing medicine and leading others into the profession
- Apply by September 30, 2026 and participate in an interview if requested