By Guest Columnist Bonnie Coblentz
Mississippi high school juniors have a summer opportunity to learn about medical and science careers while earning 3 hours of college credit at Mississippi State University.
The Rural Medical and Science Scholars (RMSS), program will be held in Starkville June 8-20 this year. It is designed to introduce academically qualified students to careers in health or science/technology/engineering/math (STEM) fields. Students must apply by April 14. Only Mississippi residents are eligible.
Jasmine Harris-Speight, RMSS director, said the residential program allows students to take a college-level health science course, tour the University of Mississippi Medical Center and make friends with peers who have similar career interests and goals.
“This unique program is designed to help students explore health-related careers and STEM fields,” Harris-Speight said. “They will hear robust lectures and attend engaging workshops exploring public health and its connection to careers in health or science.
“They will have opportunities to network with peers and professionals as part of this experience that prepares them for their future academic and career goals.”
Since the RMSS program began in 1998, 515 students have participated in the program and 70% of participants have pursued STEM-related careers. This has helped address Mississippi’s need for more health care providers in rural areas of the state
“Our goal is to give students the tools they need to explore, innovate and make a difference in the world,” Harris-Speight said.
The $2,600 fee for the program includes the $100 application fee. Scholarships up to 100% of the cost are available on an as-needed basis. The cost covers tuition, housing, textbooks, workshop materials and some food during the program.
Find more information and the application form at http://extension.msstate.edu/content/application-form.
MSU is an equal opportunity institution. For disability accommodation or other information, contact Harris-Speight at 662-325-6640 or jrh667@msstate.edu.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Bonnie Coblentz writes for the Mississippi State University Extension Service.
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