The Office of Student Outreach aims to enhance the mission of the VCU School of Medicine by expanding our reach to populations that are underrepresented in medicine. Our intentional recruitment, retention and programming efforts are available to all prospective applicants, including, but not limited to:

  • First-generation college students
  • Non-traditional students
  • Students from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds
  • Students from rural backgrounds

We are proud to go out into the community and collaborate with partners like other units across VCU and VCU Health, postsecondary institutions like community colleges and historically Black colleges and universities, local school districts and on-campus student interest groups to connect with aspiring future doctors. Our pathway programs and other initiatives open doors for talented prospective students, enrich our multifaceted School of Medicine community and shape the next generation of physicians and scientists.

Programs for College Students

Your Journey Towards Medicine

This one-day seminar is most beneficial for freshmen, sophomores and others who are just beginning to explore a career in medicine. Topics include early preparation, cost and expectations of medical school applicants.

Learn more about Your Journey Towards Medicine

Academic and Clinical Skills Symposium (ACSS)

Available to all college students interested in medicine but tailored to those from populations underrepresented in the field, this one-day symposium features hands-on demonstrations of basic clinical skills. The event is most beneficial for juniors, seniors and graduates who have completed all prerequisites.

Learn more about the ACSS

Summer Academic Enrichment Program

A collaboration between VCU School of Medicine and the Division for Student Engagement and Impact, this six-week summer program simulates the first year of medical school instruction and is available to college juniors, seniors, graduates and post-baccalaureate students. Participants engage in intensive instruction, test-taking workshops, mock interviews, professionalism seminars and community service opportunities.

Learn more about SAEP

Campus Visits

In-person and virtual campus visits are scheduled during both the fall and spring semesters. Participating students will be able to engage with administrators and current students, participate in a case-based interactive activity and take a tour of the School of Medicine campus. For more information, please contact Natalia O'Brien at natalia.obrien@vcuhealth.org or by using the button below.

Email Natalia O’Brien

Premedical Graduate Health Sciences Certificate Program

Do you need an academic boost before you begin applying to medical school? This one-year, graduate-level program, known as CERT, is designed for students seeking to enhance their qualifications and improve overall competitiveness for admission into medical school. Students who successfully complete the program may be eligible for a guaranteed interview at VCU School of Medicine.

Read more about CERT

Programs for High School Students

Other Resources

Why VCU?

Choosing a medical school is about more than finding the right fit academically — it’s also about deciding where and how you want to live for the next four years. As part of the broader Virginia Commonwealth University community located in the heart of Virginia’s capital city, VCU School of Medicine provides easy access to all the unique opportunities that VCU, VCU Health and Richmond have to offer.

Contact Us

For inquiries regarding Student Outreach programs and events, please contact:

        Natalia O’Brien
        Student Outreach Coordinator
        natalia.obrien@vcuhealth.org
        804-828-9630