Office of Student Engagement and Cultural Affairs
Pathway Programs

Bridging the Gaps Program

Application Information

About the Program

Bridging the Gaps (BTG) is an in-resident 8-week summer research experience providing students interested in science and medicine an opportunity to gain meaningful exposure to the exceptional research and clinical programs at the Keck School of Medicine (KSOM) of USC.  This program is open to all eligible individuals. BTG operates all of its programs and activities consistent with the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. Summer scholars will conduct cutting-edge research in the laboratories of Keck faculty. Participants will be exposed to basic science, translational, and clinical research experiences. Additionally, all students attend weekly seminars on important health topics and receive formal instruction in basic physiology and biostatistics. The summer session culminates with students presenting their research findings to the KSOM community.

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Student in the lab looking through a microscope

Program Highlights

  • Scholars receive a stipend. There are no tuition or fees.
  • Transportation costs and University housing are paid by the program.
  • Weekly didactic lectures in physiology, pathophysiology, and biostatistics.
  • Seminars focusing on reducing health disparities and enhancing cultural competence in health care.
  • Opportunities to shadow at affiliated hospitals: Keck, LA General Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
  • Career development workshops: financial aid, MCAT prep, graduate school admission process, test taking skills, organization skills, time management, and career choices.

Applying to the program

Program Dates: June 9 – August 1, 2025

Application Opens: November 2024
Application Deadline: February 2, 2025

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Complete at least 2 years of undergraduate study
  • Have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or greater
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident

All participants are required to be fully vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 unless they have an approved exemption because of a disability, medical contraindication, or sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance, per university policy. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated (i.e., those who qualify for a medical or religious exemption) are required to wear a facial covering indoors and outdoors when distancing cannot be maintained and be tested regularly.

Applications open beginning November 2024

You will be required to submit the following with your application:

  • An essay describing how this program will enhance your educational and career goals (min. 500 words)
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Two faculty Letters of Recommendation (One MUST be from a faculty in the Life Sciences)
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For questions regarding your application or the application process, please contact:

Bridging the Gaps
Keck Office of Student Engagement and Cultural Affairs
Email: keckoseca@usc.edu
Phone: 323-442-1050