The Excellence in Learning program helps high school students cultivate the skills needed for rigorous, independent learning and sustained success in health professions pathways. For the 2026 session, selected participants will take part in the Bridging the Gaps: Primary Care outreach event, a signature experience designed to introduce students to the impact, scope, and possibilities of primary care careers.
Through interactive, patient-centered learning, students will explore how primary care improves community health, reduces disparities, and serves as the foundation of a strong health care system. Participants will engage with clinicians, medical educators, and students while building practical skills in clinical reasoning, teamwork, and communication.
The program exists through a partnership between the MU School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, and participating St. Louis high schools.
Following participation in Washington University’s Saturday Scholars Program, selected students and one teacher from each school are invited to visit the MU Columbia campus for an intensive medical education experience connected to the Bridging the Gaps: Primary Care series.
What to Expect
The Excellence in Learning: Bridging the Gaps - Primary Care program will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 on the MU Columbia Campus.
- Interactions with primary care and other health professionals
- Exposure to Mizzou Med
- Patient-Based and community-centered learning experiences
- Exploration of primary care careers (family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, etc.)
- Gain understanding of how physicians think
- Experience team-based care in action
Sample Program Agenda
Saturday, April 18, 2026
- Depart St. Louis (morning)
- Arrive in Columbia
- Welcome and program overview
- Icebreaker
- Rotation Block 1
- Lunch
- Rotation Block 2
- Faculty & Student Q & A
- Closing Reflections
- Depart for St. Louis
- Arrive in St. Louis
How to Apply
Students participating in Washington University’s Saturday Scholars Program (SSP) will be invited to apply. Based on high school teachers' recommendations and SSP participation, they will be accepted and invited to join Excellence in Learning: Bridging the Gaps - Primary Care experience.
