Purpose
The ZotUnity program at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine (UCISOM) aims to create an inclusive and thriving medical school community by emphasizing collaboration, wellness, and academic support. This student-led initiative was developed in response to a climate survey conducted between December 2022 and January 2023. The survey highlighted critical areas for improvement including community engagement, learning support, wellness initiatives, and mentorship.

Methods
The implementation of ZotUnity involved hiring student tutors and securing approval from the Dean’s office. The program is structured around six houses, named after medical and health-related mythical figures. Each house comprises students from all academic levels, and is tasked with fostering academic support, social growth, mentorship, wellness, and advising activities. ZotUnity launched in August 2023 with a field day attended by 70% of the student body. Monthly house events throughout the year include career advising dinners, multi-house activities, social outings, and wellness events during major transitional periods in medical school.

Results
An evaluation based on a follow-up survey in 2024 revealed a generally positive reception. Students reported clear program introduction (M= 3.72, SD= 1.09) and alignment with its mission (M= 3.37, SD= 1.06). Key strengths included enhanced inter-class connectivity facilitated through monthly events and the ZotUnity House Cup competition. However, the program also faced limitations such as variability in event attendance and the potential for program overload. The structure and objectives of ZotUnity indicate potential for adaptation and implementation at other academic institutions facing similar challenges in student cohesion and support.

Conclusions
In response to a 2022 climate survey, ZotUnity was created by UCISOM students to address cohesion, collaboration, and resource fatigue. Entering its second year of implementation, ZotUnity's mission to create a thriving and inclusive medical school community, emphasizing collaboration, wellness, and academic support, has been achieved.