Photo: University of Pikeville

Twenty-five Kentucky high school students from nine counties across the region recently completed the annual Professional Education Preparation Program at the University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. The residential program provides high school students with an opportunity to learn about the medical profession. Nearly 900 students have participated in the University’s program since its inception in 1999. Students spent one week on campus studying anatomy, histology, physiology, biochemistry, pathology and pharmacology of the major human organ systems through presentations provided by KYCOM faculty, fellows and second-year medical students. UPIKE’s PEPP program is designed to provide an understanding of rural medicine, what it takes to get into a medical education program and the dedication needed to succeed in the medical profession. It also helps to build confidence and self-esteem and provides students with the encouragement to seek challenging course work as they prepare for higher education.