Mayo Clinic Native American Pathway Summer Program

Sharon Torres
torres.sharon@mayo.edu

Jonathan Baines, M.D., Ph.D.
baines.jonathan@mayo.edu

The Mayo Clinic Native American Pathways Summer Program is a 5-week virtual educational experience designed to prepare American Indian/Alaska Native undergraduate students for health careers. Participants will focus on career and medical school readiness, career exploration, introduction to scientific research, and remote clinical observation.

2026 program dates are July 13 - August 14, 2026.

Activities will include:

• Personal statement writing workshop
• Mock interviews
• Community informed clinical simulation activities and disparities case studies
• Discussion panels with medical students, residents, attending physicians, and scientists
• Exploration of ongoing bioethics and community engaged projects
• Culturally based team building exercises
• Mentoring and continued learning and engagement, including MCAT preparation, practice tests, books and resources.

American Indian/Alaska Native undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students who are MD, MD/PhD, or DO or DDS-seeking-seeking and preparing to enter medical school in the next two years are eligible to apply.

First-generation college students, Upward Bound, underserved students who have previously received free or reduced school lunches, and veterans are especially encouraged to apply.

The program is provided at no cost. Participants will receive a stipend for their full participation in the program.

Links to application guidance and the online application portal are available on the program website.