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:
To be announced.

Program Begins:
To be announced.

Victoria Dempsey

Pictured: Victoria Dempsey, GCC Dental Hygiene Student and AHEC Scholar.

AHEC Scholar Feature

“I just completed RAM in Montross, VA, as a volunteer dental hygiene student. This was my first time as a dental hygiene student participating in a nonprofit organization, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. Everything was very organized, and all of the volunteers were very helpful and encouraging. The patients I provided care to were so grateful and happy to be able to get the care they’ve been needing. I believe that we all have the ability to help each other in a variety of different ways, and it was a privilege to be able to use my knowledge and skills that I have learned to give back to others. This experience has been rewarding. I have always enjoyed giving back to the community, and I plan to be a lifelong server.”

– Victoria Dempsey, GCC Dental Hygiene Student

Courtesy of Germanna Community College Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene Program
Published on October 11, 2023

VIRGINIA AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTERS (AHEC)

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