Becoming a dentist is no longer a dream for Sha-Vashtiy Young, C’2014. Since joining the Spelman College Health Careers Opportunities Pipeline Preparation Program, Young has participated in a summer medical and dental education program at Case Western University, attended professional conferences and workshops, networked with health care professionals, checked blood pressures, and learned to calculate body mass index rates.
As a result of being an HCOPPP scholar, Young is gaining the confidence and necessary skills she needs to prepare for a successful health career.
Sha-Vashtiy Young
“I’m really fortunate to be part of this program because it serves as a great gateway to my future,” said Young, a psychology major, who plans to attend dental school at Virginia Commonwealth University. “The program produces academically successful students and gets you in the mindset of something you can grasp. We learn that our dreams are attainable.”
The brainchild of Dr. Rosalind Gregory-Bass, C’92, assistant professor of biology, HCOPPP was established in the fall of 2008 with the objective of preparing and empowering pre-health students to become well-rounded, knowledgeable health careprofessionals. The program provides mentorship, professional, personal and academic development for aspiring physicians, dentists, pharmacists, public health specialists, and other medical professions.
Jazmyn McCloud and Kerona Sharpe
Biology major Jazmyn McCloud, C’2012, made sure to take advantage of several opportunities through HCOPPP. Now enrolled in the Early Medical School Selection program at Boston University School of Medicine, McCloud learned about the opportunity during her sophomore year.
“If if wasn’t for the HCOPPP program, I wouldn’t be able to succeed in this program,” said McCloud, who will enter Boston University’s medical school in the fall. “It’s taught me professionalism, how to network, and helped me as a Black women to stand and be confident. Now, I’m a stronger candidate entering professional school. Dr. Gregory-Bass has done a wonderful job.”
Dr. Gregory-Bass couldn’t be happier to hear those words.
“I was so tired of hearing recruiters and other professionals say they couldn’t find strong, qualified African-American
Preparing Spelman Women for Success
A three-year, para-curricular program, HCOPP provides a structured opportunity for Spelman pre-health students to enhance their exposure to health and health-related professions. Scholars receive information about standardized test preparation; gain clinical and technical skills related to their field of interest; acquire and demonstrate proficiency with using leadership skills; and participate in basic science and clinical research.
Students apply to HCOPPP during their sophomore year. Open to students of all academic disciplines, all HCOPPP scholars are required to complete pre-health requirements. Once they are accepted into the program, the scholars meet with Dr. Gregory-Bass every other Saturday morning to participate in personal and professional development sessions; network with health professionals; work on personal statements; prepare for standardized tests; perform community service work; and attend tutoring and financial literacy sessions.
Annually, the program also hosts its signature white coat ceremony. A rite of passage for professional development, the ceremony symbolizes the beginning of our students’ medical training and the start of their respective journeys, Dr. Gregory-Bass said.
The program has proven successful. According to Dr. Gregory-Bass, 85 percent of HCOPPP scholars are accepted to their first-choice graduate and professional schools – far above the national average at 45 percent. Twenty scholars have graduated from the program; 34 are currently enrolled.
Barbara Bell, Ph.D., director of the Health Careers Program, said the HCOPPP program serves as a spin-off to a former program known as the Pre-Freshmen Summer Science Program. During the program, 30 rising first-year Spelman students participated in science-related classroom enrichment activities, field trips and professional seminar series.
“Dr. Gregory-Bass was an alumna of the program,” said Dr. Bell. “Now, she’s a mentor and a good role model to students. She’s imparting some of the same aspects of academia she received from teachers when she was here. Students really need that connectivity and nuturing.”
‘Invaluable’ Experience
Daijia Shields
Biology major Daijia Shields, C’2012, joined HCOPPP in 2009. Since then, she’s participated in MCAT preparation programs, completed an internship, and conducted research at the University of Connecticut. Having gained priceless clinical skills, she said those skills will make her more competitive for graduate and medical school.
“This has been an invaluable experience,” said Shields, who plans to pursue a master’s degree in science before attending medical school. “Any person interested in the medical field should be a part of this program. It will help get you to the next level.”
Danielle Winfrey, C’2013, says HCOPPP is helping prepare her for the field of medicine
“The program really cultivates academic excellence and support,” said Winfrey. “Since I’ve been in HCOPPP, it’s been a challenge, and a learning experience. I’m now closer to realizing my dream.” – Alicia Lurry is senior communications specialist and editor of the Spelman Connection for the Office of Communications.
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