Pathways to Science: Building the next generation of Health and STEM professionals. 

The Pathways to Science Role Model and Mentoring Project led by Hispanic Access Foundation, will conduct public outreach to communities in Orlando, Florida, featuring engaging talks by health science researchers and offering follow-up near-peer mentoring to interested high school students.

This project is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH)- Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA). NIH, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the nation’s medical research agency — making important discoveries that improve health and save lives. The SEPA program supports educational activities that encourage pre-college students (pre-kindergarten to grade 12) from diverse backgrounds, including those from groups underrepresented in the biomedical and behavioral sciences, to pursue further studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

	Project Goals   Hispanic Access aims to: Build awareness and value of careers in health research among parents and youth. Foster interest among youth to pursue health research careers. Encourage a college path in health research among high school students in these communities.
	Project Components   The program aims to:  Have health science researchers provide engaging, informative monthly talks to parents and youth each school year. Provide coaching to presenters to ensure talks are engaging, informative, and accessible. Provide college prep coaching and mentorship for high school students.