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Community Outreach & Education Opportunities

Pathways to Success

What to Expect from Pathways to Success

During the Pathways to Success event, students will participate in an interactive and educational evening that includes:

  • Residents from a wide range of specialties will host interactive demonstrations, allowing students to explore different areas of medicine.
  • Students will have the chance to engage in hands-on activities, such as practicing basic clinical skills, understanding medical equipment and participating in diagnostic simulations.
  • These experiences provide real-world insight into the daily work of health care professionals.

  • Students will meet and network with medical residents, faculty and program staff who can offer insights into the medical school journey and various career paths.
  • Small group discussions provide a supportive space for students to ask questions about coursework, admissions and professional development.
  • Participants gain valuable mentorship from professionals dedicated to increasing representation in the medical field.

  • The program culminates in an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Banner – University Medical Center South campus, giving students a firsthand look at hospital operations.
  • Students will visit key hospital departments, observe clinical settings and learn how different health care professionals collaborate to provide patient care.
  • This experience demystifies the hospital environment and helps students envision themselves working in medicine.

  • The evening includes motivational talks from medical professionals who share their personal journeys, challenges and triumphs in the field.
  • These speakers highlight the importance of perseverance, representation and diversity in health care.
  • Students leave with a renewed sense of purpose and encouragement to pursue careers in the medical field.

  • Expands Access to Health Care Careers: Provides students from under-resourced backgrounds with a unique opportunity to explore careers in medicine.
  • Inspires the Next Generation of Health Care Professionals: Offers direct engagement with residents and medical faculty who can serve as role models and mentors.
  • Breaks Down Barriers: Helps students navigate the complexities of medical education and professional pathways.
  • Encourages Diversity in Medicine: Strengthens connections between aspiring students and the medical community to promote long-term inclusivity.

This program is open to high school juniors and seniors, particularly those who are:

  • Interested in exploring health care careers
  • From historically under-resourced communities
  • Looking for mentorship and career guidance

Students do not need prior medical experience — just a curiosity and passion for learning about health care professions.

Annual Essay Competition

Pathways to Success Essay Competition: Supporting Future Health Care Leaders
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Student speaking into a microphone next to a smiling instructor at a podium


The Pathways to Success Essay Competition is a prestigious initiative designed to support high school juniors and seniors in Pima County who aspire to careers in health care. The competition serves as a financial and mentorship bridge, helping students pursue their academic goals while providing them with the guidance and resources needed to thrive in medical education and beyond.

The Pathways to Success Essay Competition is open to students who meet the following criteria:

  • High school junior or senior pursuing or considering a health care career
  • Students from historically under-resourced schools
  • Individuals with strong academic records, leadership potential and commitment to health care
  • Attend a Pima County high school

This competition is designed to uplift students who may not otherwise have access to financial, academic or professional support in their pursuit of a career in medicine.

  • Complete the Online Application: Interested students submit their information using the quick virtual application
  • Submit Essay: Applicants are to submit an essay that responds to prompts explaining why they are pursuing a career in health care, three tangible steps they’ve taken and which medical career they are exploring.
  • Application Review & Selection Process: A selection committee will review applications and choose recipients based on a rubric designed to focus on the student’s essay text and how they communicate their experiences.

Winners will be notified and invited to the Pathways to Success event to accept the award certificate.

We look forward to supporting and celebrating the success of our scholarship recipients!