Virginia AHEC Scholars Program
Who is eligible?
The AHEC Scholars program is a noncredit program designed for students who have an interest in rural or underserved health care and are currently enrolled in a college-level health career degree or certificate program. Students within two years of finishing their health career degree or certificate program are eligible to apply. We seek individuals who are committed to improving health and health care, devoted to community service, and interested in improving their own skills and in working with other professionals in team-based care.
What does the program require?
AHEC Scholars is a two-year program comprised of 40 hours of online didactic and 40 hours of clinical and/or community-based activities each year. In many cases, the community experiences can be accomplished concurrently with field work requirements of the student’s major.
Scholars will engage in study and experiences addressing core topics such as:
- Interprofessional Education
- Behavioral Health Integration
- Social Determinants of Health
- Cultural Competency
- Practice Transformation
- Current and emerging health issues such as substance use disorders
What are the benefits of the program?
Students also receive valuable work experience, support and mentorship, networking opportunities, and a stipend. AHEC Scholars are given preference for additional (optional) free statewide training events. Upon completion of requirements, each AHEC Scholar will receive an AHEC Scholars Certificate, setting them apart from other students in an increasingly competitive environment.
Who sponsors the program?
AHEC Scholars is a national program funded in part by the federal Health Resource & Services Administration (HRSA). It is implemented by local regional, and statewide AHECs.
The Blue Ridge Area Health Education Center (Blue Ridge AHEC) housed at JMU’s Institute for Innovation in Health and Human Services is participating with the Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority (VHWDA) in the Virginia AHEC Scholars Program.
How to apply?
Students may complete the online application
Two letters of recommendation and a copy of an unofficial transcript are required.
Please email the recommendation form to two (2) recommenders, and ask that they submit the letter of recommendation via email to Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority/Virginia AHEC at info@vhwda.org.
Also, please attach an electronic copy of your unofficial transcript when completing the application using the link above.
For more information contact:
Reem Mohammed
Blue Ridge AHEC Program Coordinator
Campbell Building 2253
540-568-8829
mohammrx@jmu.edu
Resource Links
AHEC Scholars Recruitment (PPT)
Orientation (PPT)
