UK’s Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) was established in 1982 and restructured in 2019 to include the PEPP Scholars program and the PEPP MD program.
PEPP Scholars is a summer academic enrichment program that exposes high school graduates to the field of medicine in the hope of solidifying their commitment to the career path. The one-week program affords young scholars the chance to observe, network, and volunteer within the health care setting.
Eligibility:
- Rising college freshman
- Clear interest in medical school
- Be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or graduated from a Kentucky high school
Other factors for consideration include that a student:
- Identifies with a group that is racially/ethnically underrepresented or rural Appalachian in the health professions;
- Comes from an economically or educationally disadvantaged background; and/or
- Has demonstrated an interest in issues affecting underserved populations
- Submits a compelling personal statement and a strong letter of recommendation
Dates:
The program dates for the 2024 PEPP Scholars program are June 2-7, 2024.
Selection:
- Application opens on Nov. 1, 2023.
- Completed applications form submissions must be received by Feb. 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Required reference letter must be submitted by Feb. 5, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
The selection committee will carefully review the written personal statement, letter of recommendation, application, and transcripts when selecting participants. Applicants will be notified by email. A limited number of alternates will also be selected.
Participants must abide by all rules of the program. There is a mandatory attendance policy for all activities for the duration of the program. All students are required to live in the dormitory provided. Students cannot be employed during the program. They must also reside on campus at all times unless escorted by the PEPP staff.
PEPP Scholars applications contain the following items:
- Personal statement (limited to 3000 characters)
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher (unique link sent via email)
- Unofficial high school transcript
- UK PEPP Scholars application
- A headshot
For additional information, please contact the Office of Admissions at kymedap@uky.edu.
