The creation of the UNM Health Professions Symposium is all about giving students the opportunity to explore their passions and the tools necessary to build successful medical careers.

In its second year, the Symposium is an all-day event with over 80 workshops on various health professions topics. High school and undergraduate students are invited to learn about different health professions: medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, radiologists, dentists, hygienists and many more—and discover various pathways into the field of their choice.

“Overall the atmosphere is very professional and exciting.” — Matthew French

UNM sophomore and Lobo football team member, Matthew French attended last year’s event. French knew he wanted a career in medicine and felt like the Symposium made all the difference in turning his dream into a reality.

“The UNM Health Professions Symposium was honestly the most insightful event I’ve ever participated in,” said French. “The abundant number of 45-minute workshops students can choose from, provided the most crucial information for every program—admissions processes, finance, general program information.”

French is an American-Indian student with Diné ancestry. He hopes to become a specialized medical doctor and use his education to give back to the community.  

“After med school, I would like to practice, my first couple of years, within the four corners region serving my Diné,” he said. “This drives me every day, because I realize the scarceness of health care, and other medical deficiencies throughout the Navajo Nation.”

The Symposium is also a great opportunity to network with individuals—fellow students with similar interests and professionals working in varied medical fields.

Last year's event attracted nearly 400 interested high school and college students. They were able to attend as many as five workshops over the course of the day.

There was also an information session over the 90-minute lunch break where students had a chance to speak directly to representatives from almost 40 different programs and student organizations. 

The UNM Health Professions Symposium will be held Saturday, March 24 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Student Union Building (SUB). 

This year, the student organized Symposium is expected to attract around 1000 participants. The event is free, but pre-registration is required. Visit the Symposium website at hps.unm.edu for more information and to register. Registration end Friday, March 9.

Additionally, organizers are still accepting applicants for workshop presenters, and information tables. Interested individuals or organizations can register on the Symposium website. The deadline for presenters and information tables is Monday, March 1.

“If you’re a student who isn’t sure on which career to choose or been have curious about a health professions career, then this is a great time to make those connections,” added French. “Overall the atmosphere is very professional and exciting.”