Before receiving their certificates, 23 high school students took the stage to share their research on oral health and explain how they could use that knowledge to improve the health of their communities.
Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry celebrated the 2026 Health Careers Opportunity Program Pre-Matriculation Academy graduating class July 17 in Henry A. Moses Alumni Hall. As part of the ceremony, students presented capstone projects centered on oral health, bringing together the research, leadership and problem-solving skills they developed during the academy.
The presentations marked the culmination of a program designed to help students see themselves as future health professionals. Through mentoring, ACT and SAT preparation, college readiness workshops and project-based community engagement, the Pre-Matriculation Academy helps high school students strengthen their academic preparation while building confidence and leadership skills.
Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, HCOP empowers students from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds as they explore and prepare for meaningful careers in the health professions. The program helps participants build strong academic foundations, gain exposure to career pathways and develop skills for long-term success in higher education and the health care workforce.
HCOP supports students at several stages of the educational pipeline through three programs:
- The Pre-Matriculation Academy prepares high school students for college through mentoring, test preparation, workshops and community-based projects.
- The Adult, Non-Traditional and Veteran Student Program allows adult learners and veterans to earn a Patient Service Representative certificate, gain experience in health care administration and prepare to enter the workforce.
- The National Ambassadors Program provides undergraduate students with academic enrichment, research experience, test preparation and professional mentorship as they prepare to apply to medical, dental or graduate programs.
HCOP gives participants the preparation, exposure and support needed to take their next steps with greater confidence.
Learn more about Meharry’s Health Careers Opportunity Program.
