Pathways in Pediatric Education (PATH)

PATH is a year-long pediatrics preceptorship for undergraduates, hosted by the University of Vermont Children's Hospital and Larner College of Medicine, providing clinical experience for pre-med students.

The program was awarded the Larner College of Medicine Teaching Academy Innovation in Curriculum Development or Pedagogy Award.  

PATH students are paired with pediatric faculty based on shared interests and will arrange at least one half-day (4 hours) of shadowing per month in various settings (clinic, hospital, or lab) throughout the academic year.

This program supports students at different stages of their pre-health journey, providing exposure to pediatric careers, validating their interest in medicine, and allowing them to reflect on their goals. Writing brief reflections after each session is encouraged but not required. Students can also attend weekly Pediatric Grand Rounds and specialty-specific educational sessions, but they will not have clinical responsibilities.

PATH alum report positive experiences, with 100% recommending the program!

Eligibility

For college-level students:

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  • Completed at least two full years of undergraduate coursework

 

For college graduates

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  • Graduated college within the last two years
  • OR currently enrolled post-baccalaureate or masters level program as preparation for medical school
  • OR have completed a post-baccalaureate or masters level program in the last two years

All students are expected to

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  • Complete UVM Medical Center training modules and obtain an identification badge before entering the clinical setting.
  • Dress in business casual (scrubs will be provided if needed).
  • Maintain professional behavior (see LCOM Professionalism policy).
  • Arrive on time, ready to learn.
  • Provide end-of-year feedback and agree to be contacted 1 and 5 years post-program for a brief survey on your activities and plans.

Transportation

At this time, the PATH program cannot provide funds to support travel to or from clinical sites.  We understand that lack of transportation can be a barrier to accessing this opportunity and hope to be able to provide transportation supports in the future.

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How to apply

Undergraduates apply by July 15; post-graduates by August 15. Use a monitored email for summer updates.
A pediatric faculty committee will evaluate applications. Virtual interview invitations will be sent in August, with acceptance notifications in early September.

Apply Here
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Scheduling Considerations

Many pediatrician preceptors primarily work in outpatient clinics during typical weekday hours (8 AM to 12 PM and/or 1 PM to 5 PM). Applicants who can match this schedule will find more opportunities. Evening or weekend hours with inpatient preceptors are limited.

For PATH Faculty 

PATH faculty are expected to engage with students during their clinical experience by teaching and answering questions (outside of patient encounters). They should allocate about 15 minutes at the end of a shadowing experience to provide insights on careers in pediatrics. Faculty are also available to review student writing samples for medical school applications but have no additional responsibilities. While the program isn't designed as a mentorship, faculty and students can choose to form a mentoring relationship if mutually agreed upon.