The University of Texas Dental Branch and Medical School at Houston
Houston, Texas

Overview

The University of Texas Dental Branch and Medical School at Houston SMDEP seeks motivated students from a variety of backgrounds including those who are underrepresented or underserved that are interested in pursuing a career in dentistry and medicine, including those who have an interest in serving the underserved. The mission of SMDEP is to assist students in enhancing their knowledge, skills, and attitudes to make them more competitive and to improve their chances of becoming successful applicants to a medical or dental school of their choice.

SMDEP serves to advance our institution's core missions of providing the highest quality education, conducting the highest caliber of research in biomedical and health sciences, and providing exemplary clinical care in a diverse and culturally competent environment.

SMDEP scholars will experience academic enrichment in five core areas: microbiology, anatomy and physiology, pre-calculus/calculus, physics, and organic chemistry. Students also will engage in expanding their study and communication skills, explore ethical behavior in healthcare and participate in financial planning, career development workshops, and academic counseling. Students will have clinical experiences in such areas as emergency medicine, family practice, internal medicine, restorative dentistry, and oral surgery. All students will participate in admission discussions and simulated interviews with SMDEP tutor members and some faculty in preparation for the formal application process. Social interactions with others SMDEP scholars, medical and dental students, and expert faculty who are committed mentors will enrich the experience.

Finances

• Meals: Meal plan for breakfast and dinner 7 days a week at Memorial Herman Hospital, plus stipend support for lunches and some catered meals.

• Travel Assistance: Not provided.

• Stipend: Three installments at the beginning, middle, and end of program.

Living

• Housing: Rice University air-conditioned dorm room.

• Health Insurance: Not provided; the University of Houston Health Science Center's Student Health Services will be available on an acute-care basis.

• Social Activities: Group activities include visits to local attractions, such as NASA (behind the scenes), the Museums of Health and Science, Museum of Fine Arts or Natural Science, and an Astros baseball game. Special events include welcome party, cultural activities, talent show, birthday celebrations, and more.

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