This initiative provides outreach and support services to the local middle and high school students to encourage and promote interest in the sciences and health professions. The University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine (MCOM) is committed to enlarging the pool of qualified applicants from groups under-represented in medicine and/or disadvantaged backgrounds. To achieve this goal USF MCOM Office of Student Diversity and Enrichment offers programs and services for high school students interested in pursuing a career in medicine.

Key objectives include:

• Encourage and prepare populations underrepresented in medicine to pursue college
• Improve academic achievement and career success among disadvantaged youth
• Create a pathway of healthcare professionals at the local level

Programs

USF Health Mentoring Group – USF medical, nursing, public health and physical therapy students are matched with high-school students to using a near-peer mentoring model.

The mission of the USF Health Mentoring Group is to support the educational, wellness and career goals of Hillsborough County’s disadvantaged students, by providing near-peer mentoring, e.g., mentors who are closer to their age versus traditional teachers.

Hillsborough County Public School Health Career Initiative – In partnership with Hillsborough County Public School's Health Magnet programs with middle and high school students to provide exposure to possible health careers, giving them guidance on how to reach their goals. 

USF Health Summer Science Program – In partnership with USF Upward Bound and College Reach Out Program (CROP) USF MCOM provides a health science curriculum for students interested in pursuing a health professions career.

Partnership Programs

Brain Expansions Scholastic Training (B.E.S.T.) – Has a summer medical academy for high school students. The https://www.bestmedicalacademy.org/