The Mentorship Program

The Health Education Learning Project established a mentorship program that connected medical students with innercity elementary school students to educate and inspire them about the steps involved in becoming a physician. The initiative recognized the importance of early exposure to healthcare professions fostered a deeper understanding of the medical field amongst innercity children. The program was inspired by the need to diversify the field of medicine to service a diverse patient population through cultural sensitivity and understanding. H.E.L.P. provided medical students with an opportunity to share their knowledge, experiences, and passion for medicine, while simultaneously empowering elementary school students to explore potential career paths in healthcare. 

Why We Do It

  1. Establishing Partnerships: H.E.L.P. collaborated with Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) elementary schools in South Central Los Angeles to create a mentorship program. Collaborative efforts involved LAUSD administrators, LAUSD teachers and UCLA Medical School and Undergraduate students who worked together to facilitate a seamless learning experience for the children. 
  2. Mentor Training: Medical and Undergraduate students who participated in the program received comprehensive training by H.E.L.P. volunteers (UCLA residents/fellows) to enhance their mentoring skills. Training sessions were focused on effective communication, age-appropriate teaching methods/materials, and fostering a positive learning environment. The interaction between physicians and undergrad/med students, as they prepared for elementary school presentations, provided a level of support for those college students actively seeking a career in medicine. 
  3. Elementary School Sessions: Medical /Undergraduate student mentors visited elementary schools on a regularly during the LAUSD elementary school Science Module. Through interactive sessions, they discussed various aspects of becoming a physician, including education requirements, specialties, and the value of empathy and compassion in healthcare. 
  4. Inspiring Career Pathways: Mentors shared personal stories and anecdotes to inspire elementary school students about the rewards and challenges of a career in medicine. They emphasized the importance of science, critical thinking, and perseverance in achieving their goals. 
  5. Practical Learning Activities: The program included hands-on activities based on interest of Medical/Undergrad students. These activities helped foster curiosity and interest in healthcare-related topics. 
  6. Q&A Sessions and Resources: Each session included dedicated time for students to ask questions and seek clarifications. Additionally, mentors provided appropriate books or online materials (often donated), to further encourage students’ exploration of healthcare professions. 
  7. Impact Evaluation: H.E.L.P. monitored/ evaluated the impact of the mentors and mentees by gathering assessments from LAUSD teacher to evaluate the effectiveness of the initiative and identify areas for improvement.
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