Purpose
Genetics is a key component of the undergraduate pre-med curriculum. Developing foundational genetics knowledge and critical math, problem-solving, and logic skills begin during K-12 education. Many undergraduate programs focus on advanced genetics topics rather than core concepts, potentially disadvantaging students from under-resourced schools. Post-baccalaureate students entering our MD program often struggle with core genetics concepts, affecting their exam performance and well-being early in medical school. To address these gaps, the Genetics Workshop was added to the post-baccalaureate curriculum, linked to our MD program. This workshop reinforces foundational knowledge and boosts students' confidence before matriculation.

Methods
These post-baccalaureate students (70 in 2023-24/50 in 2024-25) were required to participate in the Workshop. The program included a pre-test/post-test format and coursework on mitosis, meiosis, and inheritance. Students were divided into teams based on test scores and participated in problem-solving sessions. A high faculty-to-student ratio provided ongoing guidance. At the end of each problem set, the faculty summarized the solutions. Pre- and Post-Workshop feedback was collected to assess changes in students' confidence in genetics and to evaluate the program. Additionally, first-year MD program grades were analyzed to assess improvements in early medical school performance.

Results
Integrating team-based work with faculty oversight helped students identify gaps in their knowledge and reasoning, leading to a deeper understanding of genetics and increased confidence before entering the MD program. Students rated the Workshop positively and appreciated its value. Pre- and post-tests showed significant knowledge gains, and early MD program performance improved for the first cohort.

Conclusions
Targeted interventions prior to medical school can address disparities in genetics knowledge, improving confidence and performance early in medical school.