University of Florida

Overview

UF SHPEP is an immersive program where scholars will engage in case-based learning and interprofessional experiences. Scholars will learn to prepare for the rigors of professional school through our academic program on successful study strategies. The University of Florida Health Science Center (UFHSC) houses six health colleges (Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health & Health Professions, and Veterinary Medicine). It is the only HSC in the Southeast, and one of three nationally, where all six health colleges are located on the same campus. The UFHSC provides students who are interested in the medical, dental, pharmacy, or public health pathways an opportunity to explore career choices in a collaborative and collegial environment. Examples of UF SHPEP activities include:

Academic Enrichment: The academic enrichment component of the program enhances studying and test-taking abilities and improves knowledge of basic science principles. Scholars (a) review, acquire, integrate, and apply the basic science principles that underlie biomedical theory and practice; (b) analyze clinically relevant problems to recognize the molecular basis for the causes, effects, and methods of treatment of disease, and to excel in pre-professional course work; and (c) become aware of advances in health sciences and understand the contributions of research to health care.

Clinical Experience & Skill Laboratories: Scholars apply knowledge of biological principles and are exposed to hands-on experiences (e.g., human patient simulations, tooth composites and denture models, water treatment and sanitization practices, chemical compounding) to learn more about their intended careers and interprofessional models of care.  

Career Development Workshops: Scholars participate in a variety of professional development workshops. Activities include learning skills and strategies, interview skills, resume and personal statement writing, professional etiquette, financial literacy, and best practices for admissions success.

Health Policy Seminars & Interprofessional Education: Scholars participate in seminars and workshops that examine topics such as the current U.S. healthcare industry and public policy, health disparities and solutions. Scholars will also engage in interprofessional exercises to simulate the collaboration that occurs between professionals of various health fields in providing patient care.

COVID-19 Institution Policies:

Masks are encouraged for all indoor activities at this site.

More information regarding the campus COVID-19 policies: https://wellness.ufl.edu/

Health Profession Tracks Offered:

• Medical
• Dental
• Pharmacy

• Nursing

Finances

Meals: Students will be provided with a meal subsidy for the online portion of the program and a campus meal plan during the four week in-person programming on the University of Florida campus. More information regarding UF on-campus dining can be found here: https://dineoncampus.com/uf/

Stipend: Scholars will receive a $1000 stipend to be distributed in installments throughout the program.

Living

Housing: Students will be provided with on-campus housing during weeks three to six of the program. Dorm rooms are furnished with a desk, bed, closet area, and dresser. Students should expect to have a roommate and share bathroom and kitchen facilities. More information regarding UF on-campus housing can be found here:  https://housing.ufl.edu/

Social Activities: We prioritize social and wellness programming to build a sense of community and belonging. Scholars will have opportunities to get to know each other and program faculty, staff, and professional student mentors through social and wellness events (e.g., trivia, yoga, arts and crafts, game nights, etc.). On campus, students can access the university recreation facilities (e.g., gyms, pools, rec sports, equipment rentals), free public transportation, and a variety of museums and outdoor activities. More information on UF recreational facilities can be found here: https://recsports.ufl.edu/