Building Pathways into Health Careers

AHECs build pathways into health careers for students of all ages. We then connect professionals to the rural and underserved communities that need them. The end result is a healthier community for all.

Student programs are often called pipeline programs. Pipeline programs are designed to support students who may face challenges in applying to or entering health professions training programs due to race, ethnicity, income, or other disadvantages.

Tips in Navigating the Pathway

Tip #1: Keep your options open… learn about all types of health careers!

Ask what programs are available and explore the wide variety of health careers

Tip #2: Develop a training or education plan… but be flexible.

Find colleges and careers to chart your path.

Premed majors: track your progress toward medical school or physician assistant programs.

Tip #3: Figure out financial aid.

Search for scholarships and learn about student loans.

Tip #4: Listen to your navigators, but be your own driver.

Your parents, teachers, and guidance counselors can advise you, but only you know what will make you happy.

Learn About AHEC Pipeline Programs

Health career exploration programs

Most AHECs provide information on a variety of health careers in schools, online, and elsewhere. Ask what programs are available in your state.

Shadowing opportunities to see what health professionals do

Some AHECs can arrange time for you to shadow health professionals for a few hours or a few days to learn what health professionals do. Learn about shadowing programs in your state.

Standardized exam prep courses

The National AHEC Organization partners with The Princeton Review® to offer discounted self-study courses to help you prepare for the SAT, ACT, MCAT, DAT, or other standardized exams you need to get into the schools you want to attend. Search for exam prep courses available in your state.

Mentoring programs

Some AHECs can find health professionals to answer your questions, help you plan your pathway, and stay in touch to encourage you along the way. Ask the AHEC in your state if they can match you with a mentor.

Academic assistance and tutoring programs

Some classes are harder than others, and some AHECs can connect you with tutors or other academic assistance programs. Ask about tutoring and academic assistance programs in your state.

Application assistance programs

Some AHECs can help you apply to college or professional degree programs. Some can help you write your essays and some can help you pay the application fees. Ask about application assistance available in your state.

AHEC Scholars Program

Every AHEC coordinates an AHEC Scholars Program for college- or graduate-level health professional students.

To learn more about AHEC Scholars

If you are a teacher or adviser seeking additional information