Increasing minority representation among medical and public health professionals requires the creation of a pipeline of talented minorities at all student level. The Health Policy Summer Program (HPSP) seeks to increase the number of students, particularly minority students, with an interest in pursuing careers in health service research, policy analysis and public health. This nine-to-ten-week mentored summer research program for college juniors and/or seniors enables the students to broaden their research exposure, network with medical and graduate students, obtain faculty supervision, attend seminars focusing on health policy, research skills and academic and career development, and to gain experience in presenting their research findings. Current and alumni participants also attend national conferences informing them about academic and career opportunities, introducing them to professional role models, and expanding their knowledge of health policy. Students conduct research at Harvard Medical School (HMS), and Harvard School of Public Health, and HMS-affiliated institutions.
Since its inception in 1997, twenty-six undergraduates have participated in HSPH. Of the eighteen who have graduated, ten are now in masters or doctoral programs in public health, health policy, basic science and medicine. Six are employed in public health and health service areas.
Learning Objectives: 1)identifying key factors facilitating collaboration across disciplines and institutions; 2)an increased understanding of the relationship between pipeline programs and the development of the public health workforce
Keywords: Minorities, Public Health Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.