SHPEP FAQs
Can I participate in SHPEP if I am a junior or senior in college, or if I have already graduated from college? No. SHPEP is exclusively for current freshman and sophomore college students.
I am a freshman and have not received my grades yet. Can I submit my high school transcript? High school transcripts are not accepted. If you are a freshman and you have not received your first semester grades, please allow them to be finalized before you submit your transcripts.
Who should I pick to write reference letters for me? This should be someone who knows your academic and personal character. Ideally this should be a pre-health advisor and/or a college professor. If none of these persons know you well enough, a high school science teacher or a local dentist or physician who knows you well is acceptable.
Can the recommendation be submitted by a previous employer or high school teacher? If a recommendation cannot be submitted by a pre-health advisor or college professor within your major, the National Program Office will accept one from an employer that is within a health professions field or from a science high school teacher.
I’m applying online and I see medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and public health as my career path choice – I’m interested in another career in health, what do I do? While students select from four main concentrations – Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Public Health – selected students will be given the opportunity to learn hands on about veterinary medicine, nursing, physician assistant, and a number of public health professions such as Clinical and Health Psychology, Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences, Health Administration, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. It is at the student’s discretion which concentration they choose when they apply.
Am I able to participate in SHPEP and attend classes over the summer? SHPEP is a full-time commitment with pre-planned days of curriculum, activities and rotations. Students’ full participation is required during the course of the program dates. Should summer courses be offered following the program, the student is free to enroll and attend, but during the program that may not be an option.
Will meals be provided during my time at UF SHPEP? Dining debit cards are provided to all scholars to use at University of Florida dining locations on campus. All dining locations are open seven days a week.
I don’t have health insurance. Is there a UF Health insurance option for successful applicants? If a scholar does not have insurance, a limited insurance plan will be purchased by the UF SHPEP program for that scholar.
Will I have free time to explore Gainesville? Scholars have a full menu of extracurricular activities to enjoy. Possible adventures include: touring UF museums, talent show, kayaking, disc golf, volleyball, swimming, tubing, social gatherings with professional students, bowling, movies and summer concerts on the plaza.
Is housing provided? Where will I live during UF SHPEP? Scholars stay in dormitories located in the center of campus, free of cost.
Should I bring a car? How will I get around? Dorms are a 10-minute walk from the UF Health Science Center. Scholars also have free access to the campus and city buses.
Will I receive aid with traveling to Gainesville? Travel expenses will be compensated.
How does the stipend work? Scholars will receive a $600 stipend.
Is there a cost to attending UF SHPEP? No. Students will be provided with housing, meals and a stipend that will cover the six weeks.