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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 Mayo Clinic Dean’s Scholars Program prepares undergraduates for medical school 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, identify as underrepresented in medicine, and has demonstrated a commitment to advancing health equity.

Dean’s Scholars participate in a six-week hybrid program, as follows:

Week 1: virtual sessions focused on medical school preparation
Week 2: in-person visit to Florida campus focused on clinical exposure and career exploration
Week 3 – 6: residential research experience

Program highlights:

  • MCAT preparation through The Princeton Review, including 66 hours of instruction, practice tests, books and resources, and one-to-one coaching
  • Clinical exposure through medical and surgical observation with Mayo Clinic physicians at the Florida campus
  • Career exploration through dialogues with medical students, residents, attending physicians, scientists, 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 undergraduate students who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

  • Rising junior on a pre-medical track
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.2 or better
  • Seeking an M.D. or M.D.-Ph.D., or demonstrated desire to pursue a research career
  • Underrepresented minority or a demonstrated desire to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare

Application timeline

Application window Apply
Feb. 1 - March 1, 2025 By invitation only

Program dates

  • June 30 to July 4, 2025: Introductory program (hybrid)
  • July 7 to July 11, 2025: Observations (in-person)
  • July 14 to August 8, 2025: Research experience (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 more 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 who are underrepresented in medicine. 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

Academics ▸ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ▸ Programs ▸ Dean's Scholars Program at Xavier University of Louisiana
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