CSIDPAR
(Chicago Summer Institute for the Development of Physicians & Researchers)
Chicago Institute for the Development of Physicians and Researchers (pronounced "sid-par") is a collection of summer programs especially designed for the development of our mentees in the areas of clinical medicine, health equity and research.
We are excited to introduce this brand new programming. The applications are expected to open summer of 2025. We are excited to present opportunities for our mentees that are rising high school juniors and seniors through college and the post-bacc years. Most programs will provide a competitive stipend and will run from 8-10 weeks. Bus passes will be provided. We will require full-time residency in Chicago during the summer and a commitment to complete the program from start to finish. Students will NOT be allowed to work elsewhere.
CSIDPAR Programs Available
The I Am Abel Foundation offers two comprehensive MCAT preparation programs designed to support students on their journey toward medical school:
DEVELOPMENTAL MCAT PROGRAM:
The Developmental MCAT Program is a preparatory pipeline for students planning to take the MCAT within 1-2 years. This program is ideal for students who need to strengthen their academic foundation, address content gaps, and gain valuable hands-on experience through Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and clinical shadowing.
Program Highlights:
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Stipend: Eligible students receive a $2,500 stipend, paid in two installments during their participation.
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Study Materials: All necessary study materials are provided at no cost.
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CARS Practice: Year-round Critical Analysis and Reasoning (CARS) practice to develop reading and reasoning skills.
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Clinical Shadowing: Direct patient contact and clinical experience with Family Christian Health Center and Advocate Health.
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Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Real-world medical scenarios to solidify knowledge of physiology and clinical practices.
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Asynchronous Learning: STEM-focused preparation with instructor support throughout theprogram.
Program Tracks:
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Track 1: Developmental MCAT Program (2026 MCAT)
For students planning to take the MCAT in Spring 26’. This track is designed for students who have completed their prerequisites and need additional preparation to address content gaps before entering the Fall 2025 Intensive Program.
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Track 2: Developmental MCAT Program (2027 MCAT)
For students planning to take the MCAT in 27’. This track is for students who need an additional year to complete their prerequisites before entering the 10-week MCAT Bootcamp series in Summer 2026.
FALL MCAT PROGRAM:
The Fall MCAT Program is tailored for students with a competitive academic background or those who have completed the Developmental MCAT STEM Bootcamp. This program runs from October 2026 to April 2027 and is focused on preparing students for the Spring 27’ MCAT exam through personalized tutoring, group coaching, and intensive review.
Program Highlights:
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Private 1:1 Tutoring & Group Coaching: Customized sessions to ensure students are thoroughly prepared for the MCAT.
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No Stipend: Unlike the Developmental Program, the Fall MCAT Program does NOT offer a stipend.
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Study Materials: All third-party materials, including Blueprint, UWorld, and AAMC resources, are provided at no cost.
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Brem Method: Under the guidance of Amanda Brem, this program employs the highly effective Brem Method, which has consistently led to significant score improvements—often by several standard deviations—in her intensive 5-week program. Our specially designed six month program ensures that students are thoroughly prepared and equipped for success on the exam.
Both programs offer testing accommodation referrals for students with suspected learning disabilities.