University of Iowa

Overview

SHPEP Iowa is pleased to offer an enriching six-week experience through our Health Science Colleges. Our Health Sciences Colleges include the Carver College of Medicine, College of Dentistry, College of Pharmacy, and College of Public Health. We strongly believe in the value of exposing students who come from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds to the possibility of pursuing a career in the health professions and supporting their goals to help improve the culture of health.

Through in-depth experiences scholars in our program will learn about a variety of pathways available in the healthcare field to help them decide which career they would like to pursue. Additionally, the students will have opportunities to improve study techniques, find mentors, build support systems, and enhance professional communication and networking skills. Each scholar will take one non-credit basic science course (Anatomy/Physiology, Physics, or Organic Chemistry) to help prepare for future enrollment in these courses. Scholars will also learn how to best work in healthcare teams with our Interprofessional Education curriculum. Scholars will work with hands-on materials such as suturing kits, dental molds, pharmacy compounding kits and participate in various experiential learning activities.

Additionally, during the fifth week of the program, we offer a “Switch Afternoon,” where scholars participate in activities within one of the other program tracks. This experience allows them to gain insight into a different area of healthcare beyond their primary track.

SHPEP Iowa introduces scholars to key concepts that influence healthcare practice and access, including bias, intersectionality, imposter syndrome, and social determinants of health.

COVID-19 Institution Policies:

Masks are welcome for all indoor activities at this site

COVID vaccine is strongly encouraged

More information regarding the campus COVID-19 policies: COVID-19 Resources | University of Iowa Health Care

Clinical Experience: Scholars will have the opportunity to volunteer with local organizations, including the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic and Proteus. Each scholar is permitted to participate in one clinical shadowing experience during the program, which will be arranged by their specific track and Principal Investigator (PI). Please note that this component comprises approximately five percent of the overall program experience.

Health Profession Tracks Offered:

• Medical
• Dental
• Pharmacy
• Public Health

Finances

Meals: A $700 food allowance will be provided at the beginning of the program.

Stipend: Two installments of $500 disbursed on week 1 and week 4 of the program. $100 will be held from the final stipend installment for incidentals or damage to university property. The final disbursement will be released after receiving the final invoice from university housing and dining.

Travel: Students will be able to apply for need-based travel assistance. For those bringing a vehicle, complimentary parking passes will be provided for the Hancher Parking Lot. Additionally, both the free campus bus system and the Iowa City public buses are available as transportation options in Iowa City.

Living

Housing: Students will be given free housing in Petersen Residence Hall. Each student will be paired with a roommate.

Social Activities: Outside of the classroom, SHPEP Iowa offers a vibrant calendar of social and community events designed to help scholars connect, unwind, and celebrate their summer experience. Program highlights include a welcome reception, ropes course, talent show, amusement park trip, graduation reception, and a reunion event where scholars can network with SHPEP alumni.

Scholars also have the chance to explore Iowa City’s summer festivities, including Pride, Juneteenth, Jazz Fest, free outdoor movie nights, and the Iowa City Block Party. Each scholar receives a summer pass to the state-of-the-art Campus Recreation and Wellness Center, and those interested in leadership can run for elected positions to plan and host scholar-led events with program support.