News Articles

Main Content

Exploring Health Care Pathways Inspires Mississippi’s Future Health Professionals

DeShundra Barnes
DeShundra Barnes

By: Deshundra Barnes

The University of Mississippi School of Medicine welcomed 191 high school juniors and seniors from across Mississippi for the Exploring Health Care Pathways event on Saturday, August 22. Students traveled from as far south as D’Iberville on the Gulf Coast and Tupelo in North Mississippi, as well as from high schools throughout the Jackson metropolitan area.

The event aimed to expose students to an array of health care careers and educational opportunities available at UMMC while helping them connect their interests and strengths to potential career pathways. Students also gained insight into academic preparation, admissions, degree options and steps they can take during high school and college to prepare for health professions. College and financial aid resources were incorporated to help students and families navigate the transition to higher education.

There was standing room only in Lecture Hall 122 as Dr. Dan Coleman, Director of Outreach, and DeShundra Barnes, Project Manager, welcomed participants and opened the day with an interactive Kahoot activity. Students then separated into red and blue groups in LH122 and LH124, where presenters alternated between the lecture halls every 30 minutes.

Throughout the day, students explored educational and career pathways presented by UMMC’s Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences, Population Health, and Health Related Professions. Students also heard from a representative of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, who shared valuable information about financial aid and resources to help students prepare for college. During breaks, students and parents engaged with college representatives to learn more about higher education opportunities.

Participant feedback reflected an overwhelmingly positive experience, reinforcing the importance of early exposure, preparation and encouragement as Mississippi students begin envisioning their futures in health care.