SOM Outreach Outlook

The School of Medicine will host outreach events in Spring 2026 to inspire, educate, and support future health care leaders. This year, we are focusing on four major initiatives for students, from early teens to college scholars, to explore careers in medicine.

Our outreach season began in January with Exploring the Health Care Pathway, an engaging event for high school juniors and seniors. Students participated in interactive sessions and presentations across all seven schools at the University of Mississippi Medical Center to gain insights into a range of health care careers and options.

In April, we shift our focus to students who have already demonstrated a strong passion for becoming physicians. Our High School Pre-Med Day is designed exclusively for high school juniors and seniors preparing for medical school. This event provides a closer look at the medical field through simulation-based activities, anatomy demonstrations, admissions advice, and conversations with current medical students who can share their personal journeys. The goal is to give aspiring doctors early insight into the commitment, preparation, and dedication needed to pursue a career in medicine.

During the month of May, we will provide an enhanced experience with our College Pre-Med Day, designed for college students actively pursuing medical school admission. During this full-day event, students engage in advanced clinical skills stations, ultrasound exposure, and learn the steps to becoming a competitive medical school applicant. They also receive practical advice on the MCAT, the application process, and the academic expectations of medical school. This event is intentionally structured to boost students’ confidence and readiness as they progress toward their application.

One of our most exciting additions to the 2026 schedule arrives in June with the launch of our early-exposure program for students ages 13 and older. This new initiative introduces younger learners to the world of medicine well before they reach high school or college. Through age-appropriate lab demonstrations, hands-on clinical activities, and career exploration sessions, participants are encouraged to develop curiosity and confidence as they explore the possibilities of becoming a physician. By reaching students earlier, we strive to plant strong seeds of interest and open doors for future physicians.

These events highlight the School of Medicine’s commitment to community engagement, educational growth, and the development of future health care professionals. We look forward to welcoming students this spring as they embark on their medical careers.