The University of Iowa Pathways to Health Professions is a FREE four-week residential summer enrichment experience for undergraduate Iowa* residents interested in pursuing careers as physicians or physician associates.
Participants will live on the University of Iowa campus throughout the program while strengthening their academic skills, exploring career pathways, and accessing resources that support their professional development.
*Please refer to Iowa Board of Regents admissions requirements website on resident classification.
Previous Medicine Track Pathway Participant Testimonials
Imanuel Ftwi
The University of Iowa medicine pathway supported my growth by shedding light on many lesser-known resources and different health pathways. It also did a wonderful job of providing a fruitful environment to meet peers in the same field and form meaningful connections with local health professionals, staff, and faculty. The program has been one of the most meaningful experiences during my time at the University of Iowa and has shown me that I belong in medicine.
Skye Witte
The University of Iowa medicine pathway helped me greatly to broaden my perspective of other pathways in healthcare. Throughout the weeks, I truly came to understand what my "why" is. Being a pre-health student can be challenging, but the program gave ample resources, connections, and real-life examples of people who were in my shoes and have flourished to become the professionals they are today. Being surrounded by like-minded peers who look and come from similar backgrounds as me made the whole experience that much more enjoyable. I would highly recommend other Iowa college students look into similar pathway programs, as this experience was meaningful and truly unforgettable!
Clarissa Lagunas
Participating in the University of Iowa medicine pathway was an opportunity that gave me insight into the realities of the professional school admissions process and practices within the medical field. One of the most impactful aspects of the program was direct exposure to clinical simulations at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. My favorite memory was having the opportunity to suture for the first time and practice surgical simulation with professionals. If I had the chance to participate in a pathway program again, I would, because of the community you can build and the opportunities available. Navigating competitive healthcare tracks can often feel isolating, but pathway programs connect you with a network of like-minded peers, faculty mentors, and admissions officers who genuinely invest in your success.
Wail Mohamed
The University of Iowa medicine pathway pushed me academically, clinically, and professionally in ways that completely solidified my commitment to healthcare. Academically, the program delivered rigorous preparation across distinct areas of study. Alongside our foundational science courses, Case-Based Learning (CBL) introduced a separate, dedicated clinical dimension, tasking us with analyzing patient cases and synthesizing comprehensive disease reports to build our diagnostic reasoning and understanding of patient care, while also researching and presenting specific topics of our choice.
Beyond the classroom, the program opened doors to invaluable clinical and community-focused opportunities that are often difficult to secure independently. The program facilitated dedicated shadowing hours across specialties and introduced me to vital community health initiatives like the Mobile Clinic, broadening my perspective on healthcare access and outreach for underserved populations.
Just as importantly, it served as an incredible launchpad for professional mentorship. Engaging directly with practicing physicians and faculty provided invaluable insights into everything from complex fields like oncology to navigating imposter syndrome, showing me the power of building professional networks and actively asking for opportunities.
I strongly encourage other Iowa college students interested in medicine or the PA profession to participate in a pathway program because it compresses essential exposure into an intensive, supportive six weeks. You gain demanding science coursework, dedicated shadowing hours, exposure to community health initiatives, and a network of inspiring mentors, all while being surrounded by a cohort of driven peers who push you to grow. It is an unmatched environment to test your commitment, build confidence, and establish the relationships and proactive mindset needed to succeed in healthcare.
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