The COVID-19 pandemic appears to be inspiring a new crop of students interested in medicine. Author: Jake Whittenberg Updated: 8:29 AM PDT May 11, 2021 SEATTLE — The prominence of our nation's doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be fueling interest in medical school. A surge in medical school applicants is being affectionately referred to as the “Fauci Effect,” named after White House Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci. "The 'Fauci Effect' is definitely happening," said Dr. Suzanne Ames, vice president of instruction at the Lake Washington Institute of Technology. The institute recently reported a 30-40% increase in the number of applicants for a variety of programs.