Mercer University students preparing for graduate or professional school in the health professions can connect with others on a similar path through the new pre-health ambassadors program.
Pre-health ambassadors are upperclassmen on pre-health professional tracks who are eager to offer support and advice, said Dr. Carol Bokros, director of pre-health professional programs at Mercer.
The ambassadors hold office hours from 4-5 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with additional hours of 10-11 a.m. on Wednesdays. They meet on the main floor of the Tarver Library.
“I want students to feel comfortable enough to just stop by and ask simple questions, like should I take organic this summer? I want them to not be without assistance on any given day,” said Dr. Bokros, who launched the ambassadors program in spring 2024.
Mercer has more than 1,000 students across 18 available pre-health tracks. While Dr. Bokros offers advising appointments, she is often booked up, and the ambassadors can offer on-the-spot advice and support, she said.
Reema Chande, a pre-med student double-majoring in global health studies and psychology, is one of 15 pre-health ambassadors this semester.
“It felt like something I would have benefited from,” Chande said about her decision to become an ambassador. “Luckily, I had friends and mentors who were upperclassmen who helped me a lot. But I realized that there was a lot of uncertainty and loneliness in the pre-med experience because sometimes people compare each other and are very competitive. So, I think this is one way for people to get advice in a really safe environment.”
In addition, students on pre-health tracks have access to an abundance of resources through the Pre-Graduate and Professional School course in Canvas. Students interested in the health professions, graduate school or law school may self-enroll in the course, which is not for credit.
The course provides relevant advice, resources, FAQ and contact information. It also includes modules that cover topics like understanding your motivations for your pre-professional work, becoming a competitive applicant, and writing for your professional school application.
“These pre-health professions tracks are hard. If students are going to be professionals, they have to take on responsibility for their own success,” Dr. Bokros said. “I’m all about helping them, but they need to take the reins.”
