UNSOM Recruitment & Outreach: High School Students
High school is an important time for students to explore different careers, extracurricular activities and academic challenges. If you are considering a career in medicine or science, you can find some suggested activities and strategies here.
Take advantage of programs/clubs for students interested in medicine and science
The School of Medicine Offers two programs for high school students; High School Medical Scholars and Summer of Discovery. The School of Medicine's Area Health Education Centers, located in Reno, Las Vegas and Elko also have programs in those cities for students. Check with your school counselor for information on what is going on at your high school.
Get to know your counselor
Too often high school students, especially in large high schools, don't know their counselor. Your counselor has important information on programs, scholarships and other information that can help you make your career decisions.
Talk to your teachers
When you let your teachers know what you are interested in they can help you find opportunities in the sciences and medicine.
Low performing high school students
Often students don't focus on academics until later in college. A career in medicine is not out of reach of a student who is not taking school seriously as a high school student. High school grades and test scores are not part of the medical school application process. However, they are important for students entering college. Sometimes students who are not focused on school go on to college and become better students, and eventually become excellent medical students. Students need to understand that high school may be their last chance to focus and get their grades up. It becomes much more difficult in college. Low grades shut doors of opportunity for students.
Paying for medical school
A barrier for some students is the high cost of a medical education. UNSOM is the best value for students who meet residency requirements. Student Handbook. Loans, grants, scholarships and loan repayment programs are available for students. An excellent source for learning more about planning financially for medical school is available from the Association of American Medical Colleges.
Other information:
BS-MD Accelerated Admission Program
Guide to Medical Specialities
High School Medical Scholars Program
Summer of Discovery
School of Medicine Tours
High School Partnerships
