About AHEC Scholars Program

The Virginia AHEC Scholars Program recruits, trains, and supports a diverse group of students from across the state, creating a multidisciplinary team of health professionals committed to both community service and the transformation of health care in Virginia.

Selected applicants participate in a two-year educational program and may be eligible to receive a stipend. Virginia AHEC Scholars Program includes 40 hours of didactic and 40 hours of clinical activities each year. Scholars develop new skills and are introduced to an interprofessional framework that will be crucial to improving health and health care. Each AHEC Scholar will receive a Virginia AHEC Scholars Certificate, setting them apart from other students in an increasingly competitive environment. Selected scholars will also have the chance to meet leaders in health care and make connections with other participants, creating an invaluable network for their future careers in health care.

Eligibility:

AHEC Scholars
  1. Currently enrolled in a two-year health profession degree or certificate program. This includes:

    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Behavioral Health
    • Pharmacy
    • Nursing
    • Nurse Practitioner
    • Physician Assistant
    • Social Work
    • Physical Therapy
    • Occupational Therapy
    • Public/Population Health Programs
  2. Interested in rural or underserved healthcare

Staff Meeting

Benefits:

  • Practical hands-on training with unique experience with rural and underserved populations
  • Professional mentoring and networking opportunities for residency and employment after graduation
  • Priority consideration for state loan repayment and scholarship programs
  • Additional incentives include priority opportunity preceptor placement, stipends, and loan repayment
Staff Lesson

How to Apply:

  1. Complete application

    Click the link to access the application.

  2. Upload transcripts

    Upload transcripts when completing the application.

  3. Submit a letter of recommendation

    Click to download the recommendation form, email to recommenders, ask recommenders to submit to VHWDA via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Application Deadline:
January 12th, 2025

Program Begins:
January 27th, 2025

Micaiah Landrum

Pictured: Micaiah Landrum, PA Student & AHEC Scholar

AHEC Scholar Feature

"I am a second year Physician Assistant Student at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia. I love to spend time with my family whether it is at the beach, hiking in the mountains, swimming, mountain biking, kayaking, or touring farmer's markets. I enjoy traveling across the country to experience stunning views, unique cultures, and different foods. I also enjoy volunteering my time at the local fire house as a firefighter and paramedic. I find that (1) quality time well spent in making lasting memories with loved ones and (2) helping my fellow man are two of the most fulfilling and rewarding things in life."

– Micaiah Landrum, Randolph Macon College PA Student

Courtesy of Micaiah Landrum, AHEC Scholar
Published on November 7, 2024

VIRGINIA AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTERS (AHEC)

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