ASPIRE-ing to Excellence at SIUSOM

Abstract This Personal View article describes the experience of Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (SIUSOM) with the AMEE School Programme for International Recognition of Excellence in Education (ASPIRE) awards program. Institutional leaders considering applying may need something more than the program description to take the plunge. We use narrative to present our reasons for applying, how the application and review process went for us, and the benefits of getting involved. By sharing our story, we hope to motivate other educators who believe in their school's educational excellence to visualize themselves as applicants and take action