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Division of Student Affairs
Career Center

Pathways to Healthcare Program

About the Program

career center team member with a student

Pathways to Healthcare is more than just a program—it's a bridge for undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. By offering a unique opportunity to explore various healthcare fields, gain hands-on clinical experience, and build lasting relationships with mentors, we are empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals to dream bigger, reach further, and ultimately transform the future of healthcare. Participants not only develop critical skills and insights but also gain a competitive edge when applying to medical and health-related graduate programs. The program is a year-long commitment with 2-hour weekly meetings and is facilitated by Robert Nocito, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Assistant Program Director, Emergency Medicine Residency from the Department of Emergency Medicine.

Benefits of the Program

  • Students will earn 1 credit for EXT 488 or EXT 288, and satisfy the EXP+ Stony Brook Curriculum designation upon completion of the program. 
  • Learn about the range of career options in healthcare, and connect to healthcare professionals and mentors, as well as faculty and staff. 
  • Develop basic clinical skills through hands-on lab simulations and case study discussions. 
  • Gain experience to prepare for healthcare careers, as well as guidance on preparing strong applications for future post-graduate programs in healthcare.

Eligibility Requirements

    • Must be a currently enrolled matriculated Stony Brook University undergraduate student.
    • Must have a minimum 2.5 GPA. 
    • Commitment to participate in both the fall and spring semesters.

Apply Now

 Applications open in February and close in March.

Contact Information 

Have a Question?

Contact Pathways to Healthcare Program Coordinators Urszula Zalewski or Giulianna Vullo.

Student Testimonials

“One of the most impactful reminders from the program was, 'Don’t reject yourself before being rejected.' This thought-provoking message resonated with me deeply, and I carry it with me in all aspects of life—academically, professionally, and personally.” - Hiba Mohamed Bakry

“One of the highlights for me was how the program fostered collaboration among students in ways that were both meaningful and medically relevant. Whether working on projects that tackled modern medical challenges, participating in group suturing sessions, analyzing case studies in teams, or attending cadaver labs led by medical students, each activity fostered teamwork, critical thinking, and practical learning.”- Katie Hsu

“Above all it helped change my perspective on healthcare workers, that just like me they’re people, and of course, they deserve their respect for all the work that they’ve put in but I don’t have to feel like I’m overstepping or being a nuisance for trying to form a connection.” -Darlyn Joseph

FAST FACTS

 

⇒Over 80% of students at SBU want more applied learning experiences to prepare for healthcare careers.

⇒Over 95%  of participants stated they felt more confident in their ability to pursue a career in a healthcare field, as compared to before the program (2023-24).