Aetna Health Professions Partnership Initiative

This Program Is:

• For 9th and 10th grade students interested in medicine, dental medicine or biomedical research. Priority acceptance into the program will be given to former Great Explorations participants and students enrolled in Hartford Public Schools.
• Provides daily classes in language arts, math, science, career and college awareness preparation, integrating PSAT strategies and support across the curriculum. Enrichment experiences both in and outside of the classroom are also included.
• Offers a four-week, Monday-Friday, Summer Academic Enrichment Program for the selected students.
• Offers a 25-week, Saturday Academy during the academic school year where students can continue to enhance their academic skills, college preparation, and exposure to careers in the health professions.
• Provides assessments and evaluations throughout a student’s affiliation with Jumpstart and includes pre, mid, and post testing; student and parent surveys; mid and final progress reports; etc.
• Classes are held at UConn Health. Transportation is provided to Hartford residents.
• Provides qualified students with an earned stipend.
• Geared towards students who meet certain socio-economic guidelines (low income and/or first generation to attend college) and demonstrate a strong motivation and potential to enroll in a four year college program. See application for additional qualification criteria.
• Parent/Guardian Orientation Workshops are held for all students participating in the program.
• Parental Seminar Series are held for parents/guardians of all students participating in the program.

Important Dates

• October 4, 2023: College Admissions Panel
• October 7, 2023 to May 4, 2024: 25-week Saturday Academy
• June 24, 2024 to July 19, 2024: 4-week, Monday – Friday Summer Program
• May 1, 2024: Application Deadline for new participants

How to Apply

All Applicants Should:

• Be a rising freshman or sophomore in high school.
• Have a ‘B‘ average or better.
• Submit an essay.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Provide two letters of recommendation from a Science or Math teacher or guidance counselor.
• Have an official transcript submitted from each high school attended.
• Submit a completed application form using the online system. An application is available for you to work on the components prior to submitting online. An online submission is required for your application to be reviewed.

Contact

Tracey Higgins
Administrative Program Assistant II
Department of Health Career Opportunity Programs
UConn Health
263 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, CT 06030-3920
Phone: 860-679-8031
Fax: 860-679-7223
Email: hcopacademy@uchc.edu

Danielle Watt, Ph.D.
Associate Director
Department of Health Career Opportunity Programs
UConn Health 263 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, CT 06030-3920
Phone: 860-679-8031
Fax: 860-679-7223
Email: hcopacademy@uchc.edu