About
UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways (UC3P) focuses on comprehensive academic enrichment, career development, mentorship, and advising to support students from underrepresented communities and disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue health careers.
Our mission is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive community of future healthcare leaders who are equipped with the knowledge, support, and opportunities needed to excel in the health professions. Through our innovative cohort model, we aim to amplify social capital, fostering connections and collaborations that enrich students’ experiences and broaden their horizons. UC3P is committed to providing specialized resources that address the unique challenges students may face. Our mission is to bridge the opportunity gap, empowering every student to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the field of healthcare.
UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways is more than a program; it's a movement dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating a level playing field for all aspiring healthcare professionals.
Cohort Model
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PRIME SCHOLARS
UCI undergraduates are matched with a Track Principal Investigator (PI) and a research lab, establishing a foundation for hands-on learning and exploration. Additionally, each Scholar is paired with a PRIME mentor. The program extends financial support with a summer stipend of $5,000 and fosters growth through curated workshops that enhance both professional and personal development, spanning both the summer and academic year.
PRIME MENTORS
This program is for UCI Health Professional students (including medical, nursing, pharmacy and clinical psychology students) who are passionate about mentoring marginalized and first-generation undergraduate students. Mentors play a crucial role in supporting and guiding these students as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. Mentors receive a stipend of $5,000 for the summer, recognizing their dedication to the role, and are paired with 2-3 Scholars, offering guidance, encouragement, and insights.
PRIME FELLOWS
This program is for UCI post-undergraduates who are in the process of preparing to apply to health profession programs. This program merges research, mentorship, & professional development to create a comprehensive & enriching experience. Fellows are connected with a track PI, allowing them to immerse themselves in meaningful research, & receive an annual stipend of $25,000, contingent on contributing over 1000 hours in a 12-month period.
Frequently Asked Questions
PRIME Scholars Eligibility
- Must be available for weekly in person workshops and activities from 6/24-8/1
- Desire to pursue a career in health
- Graduating Spring 2025 or after
- Commitment to health equity
- Interest in research
PRIME Scholar Benefits
- Financial Support: Accepted students receive a stipend to support them throughout their journey in the program.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in meaningful research alongside faculty PI.
- Service Learning: Participate in service-learning projects that make a tangible impact on underserved communities.
- Join a Supportive Cohort: Be a part of a close-knit community dedicated to advancing healthcare equity.
PRIME Mentor Expectations
Mentors are expected to connect with Scholars weekly during the summer, monthly during the academic year, and participate in program planning and implementation of UC3P Seminar Series.
Equity-Focused Research Labs with Faculty Mentorship
PRIME Scholars and Fellows have the unique opportunity to engage in equity-focused research labs, where they actively contribute to cutting-edge research projects that address health disparities. Mentored by experienced faculty PIs (Principal Investigators), PRIME Scholars gain valuable insights into research methodologies, scientific inquiry, and the intersection of healthcare and social equity.
Personal and Professional Development Seminar Series
The seminar series is a dynamic blend of interactive sessions, expert insights, and hands-on activities aimed at fostering personal and professional development. It serves as a crucial component of the UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways program, providing participants with the tools, knowledge, and skills needed to excel in their academic pursuits and future healthcare careers. The series begins with six weeks of weekly summer sessions and twice-monthly academic sessions throughout the school year. During the summer, cohorts experience intense, once-a-week sessions delving into effective communication, leadership skills, and navigating the healthcare landscape. Throughout the academic year, cohorts engage in tailored sessions twice a month, addressing specific challenges and opportunities, ensuring continuous growth, and enhancing adaptability.
Service-Learning Opportunities
An integral part of the UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways program involves hands-on service-learning experiences in local Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and community-based health initiatives. These opportunities allow our participants to engage directly with underserved populations, providing crucial healthcare services while gaining practical experience in a real-world setting. Working in FQHCs, PRIME Scholars, Mentors, and Fellows can expect to encounter a diverse range of health issues, affording them a deeper understanding of community health challenges and the importance of accessible healthcare services. This experience not only enhances clinical skills but also fosters a strong sense of social responsibility and community engagement.
Join UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways and Transform Your Future in Healthcare
UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways is not just a program; it’s a community committed to your success. Join us on this transformative journey, where mentorship, opportunity, and inclusion converge to create a pathway to success in the health professions. Break barriers, defy expectations, and become the healthcare leader you aspire to be.
Click the button below to fill out the program interest form.