AAST Essay Contests celebrate the voices, experiences, and perspectives of our members and trainees by fostering reflection, scholarship, and community engagement. Through competitive writing opportunities, the AAST provides a platform to highlight personal experiences, professional growth, leadership, service, and diversity within acute care surgery. These contests are designed to inspire meaningful dialogue, strengthen engagement across committees and councils, and promote the mission and values of the AAST.
The AAST is committed to advancing the discovery, dissemination, and evaluation of knowledge related to acute care surgery (trauma, surgical critical care, and emergency general surgery). Our essay initiatives support this mission by encouraging thoughtful reflection, elevating underrepresented voices, and recognizing excellence in service, leadership, and professional development. Selected essays may be featured at the AAST Annual Meeting and submitted for publication in Trauma Surgery & Acute Care Open, further amplifying the impact of our members’ contributions.
Open essay contest submissions and application details can be found below. If you have questions or need assistance during the submission process, please contact us at (800) 789-4006 or email us here.
AAST Military Essay Contest
The AAST Military Essay Contest recognizes the dedication, service, and unique experiences of our active duty, reserve, and national guard Military Associate Members. This contest provides a platform for military surgeons to reflect on how their service has shaped their careers and future goals while strengthening the mission and community of the AAST Military Committee. The winning essay will be presented at the Military Fallen Surgeons Education Symposium during the AAST Annual Meeting and submitted for publication in Trauma Surgery & Acute Care Open.
Click here to apply.
AAST DEI Essay Contest
Elevating Voices. Advancing Diversity. Shaping the Future of Acute Care Surgery.
The AAST Diversity Essay Contest, presented by the AAST Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee in collaboration with the AAST Associate Member Council, is open to medical students, residents, and fellows. The contest aims to elevate the perspectives of trainees while fostering opportunities within the field of acute care surgery. Participants are invited to submit an original essay of up to 1,000 words for consideration.
Award details and submission information will be released in Summer 2026. First-place winners will receive complimentary registration and hotel accommodations at a future AAST Annual Meeting, and selected essays will be published in Trauma Surgery & Acute Care Open.
Click here to view the 2025 DEI Essay inforamtion.