Written by Lauren Murphy, SIU School of Medicine
People often ask children, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Once upon a time, maybe you replied to that question, “A doctor.” And then somewhere along the way, that dream fizzled.
But what if you had a chance to get an inside look at what it was like to be a doctor? That’s what SIU School of Medicine’s Physician Pipeline Preparatory Program (P4) program is all about: providing students with a look into the life of a physician as they try to discover what they really want to be when they grow up. Who knows how many of us might have been guided to medical school if we had a chance like this.
The Pipeline Program, established in 2009, was designed to encourage local high school students interested in becoming physicians. Students are presented with case studies, laboratory experiences, guest speakers and research projects. The program also provides leadership training and academic support, which includes sessions in math, science, communication, test-taking and verbal reasoning, to students grades 9-12.
This year, nine Springfield-area students moved one step closer to becoming physicians after graduating from the P4 program, a four-year program sponsored by SIU and Springfield Public Schools (SPS).
“It has been exciting to watch the concerted interest and effort of our students during their time in the Pipeline Program,” said Dr. Wesley McNeese, director of the Pipeline Program. “If what they’ve shown in four years is any indication, then they have what it takes to become excellent physicians and productive citizens in our society.”
“The diversity of peers, challenges and opportunities are forever advancing in P4,” said Southeast High School senior and graduating P4 member Leia Ruebling. “It is not just a program; it is a taste of our future.”
Each year, freshmen from the area are selected by a committee of SIU and SPS members. Students submit letters of recommendation, a personal statement and a summary of volunteer, school and community activities, all of which need to reflect superior academic performance, high levels of motivation and a sincere interest in pursuing medical careers. The Office of Diversity, Multicultural and Minority Affairs will begin accepting applications in August. The program will begin in late fall. Students interested in applying should visit the website siumed.edu/diversity/.  View more photos of the P4 students on our zenfolio page.
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