Rural Medical & Science Scholars

A Program for Mississippi Citizens and Communities

Since 1998, the Rural Medical and Science Scholars program has been focused on helping high school seniors determine if they want to pursue health-related careers and shaping students’ interest and understanding of medicine, health-related disciplines, and other STEM fields. The scholars engage with healthcare professionals, complete an intense and rigorous session of health science college coursework, and engage in didactic, observational, and experiential learning. Discovering interest and solidifying career intent early, whether healthcare-related or not, can strengthen future goals, save money, and help ensure a successful career path.

Adding one physician to a community contributes an average of $1.8 million in additional economic output. Hence, the program works to ensure a strong and passionate workforce for the long-term goals of improving Mississippi’s economy and increasing access to healthcare.

Rural Medical and Science Scholars Impacts

• 494 students have participated in the RMSS program.
• Scholars have come from 70 of the state’s 82 counties.
• 27% of participants represent minorities.
• 63% of participants are female, and 37% are male.
• 58 scholars have attended medical school.
• 30 practice in primary care.
• 70% have engaged in STEM-related careers.

Many scholars are pursuing healthcare careers in nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, counseling, medical research, public health, and physical or occupational therapy. Other scholars now work in STEM-related careers, such as mathematics, technology innovation, and mechanical, biological, or chemical engineering.

We gratefully acknowledge the Mississippi State University Extension Service, MSU College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President, Office of Rural Health and Primary Care, CREATE/Toyota Wellspring, and CareSource for their support of this program.

Visit the RMSS page for additional information.

M1917 (10-23)