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Dean's Scholars Program at Xavier University of Louisiana and Edward Waters University

Xavier University of Louisiana Dean's Scholars event

The Dean’s Scholars Program prepares undergraduates for health professions through mentorship, clinical shadowing, MCAT preparation, research experience and other professional development activities. It is in partnership with Xavier University in New Orleans, Louisiana and with Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Florida. Participants are current undergraduate students on a pre-medical or pre-health track.

Two Tracks Offered:

  • Track 1: MD/PhD (six weeks) - for students seeking careers in research and medicine
  • Track 2: Allied Health (two weeks) - for students seeking careers in allied health

Program highlights:

  • MCAT preparation including practice tests, books and resources
  • Clinical exposure through medical and surgical observation with Mayo Clinic clinicians at the Florida campus
  • Career exploration through dialogues with medical students, physicians, scientists, allied health staff, and school leadership
  • Personal development through career readiness and well-being workshops
  • Mentoring and continued learning and engagement during the academic year 

Application process

Application is by invitation only. The program is open to XULA and EWU students who meet the following criteria:

  • Rising junior (MD/PhD Track) and sophomores and up (Allied Health Track)
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.2 or better
  • Pre-health track
  • Seeking an M.D., Ph.D. or Allied Health Career

Application timeline

Application window Apply
Feb. 1 - Feb. 28, 2026 By invitation only

Program dates

  • June 1 to June 5: Introductory program (hybrid)
  • June 8 to June 12: Observations (in-person)
  • June 15 to July 10: Research internship for MD/PhD track only (in-person)

Tuition and fees

There is no cost to participate. This is Mayo Clinic’s service to our community. Students will receive a stipend, travel allowance, and housing.

Yemi Sokumbi, M.D.

Pathway programs have never been more important as we work towards a diverse healthcare workforce capable of caring for our increasingly diverse communities. Our program fosters an interest in medicine and research by providing professional skill development for students. We provide tremendous value to the students we serve while delivering on Mayo Clinic's primary value that the needs of the patient come first.

Yemi Sokumbi, M.D.
Medical Director of the Dean's Scholars Program, Associate Professor of Dermatology, and Associate Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology

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