USC PA Pathways Program

The K-16 branch strives to inspire and guide students from kindergarten to college to attain their future careers by exposing them to opportunities and resources in the healthcare field. PA students along with health professionals speak to students about their career pathway, how to connect with resources about their profession, and how they overcame barriers to achieve their career goals. Following the health professionals’ presentations, students attend workshops where they practice clinical skills and learn more about careers in an interactive manner. Workshop topics include anatomy, physiology, nutrition, first-aid, bystander CPR, dental exams and more.

Past K-16 events have focused on careers in the following areas:

The programs LeAD (LEadership & Academic Development) is designed to provide elementary, middle and high school students with the appropriate tools to achieve their educational and career goals.

With the support from PA students, faculty, and professional tutors they will be provided with educational instruction, mentorship, resources, leadership development, and life skills to help them navigate through academic challenges, in order to thrive in any academic setting.

The goal of LeAD is to prepare each student to be well-equipped for success throughout their academic and professional aspirations.

CReW (College REadiness Workshop) is designed to provide support for 11th and 12th grade students as they prepare for their college pathway. The program equips students with the tools, guidance, and individualized support needed to successfully navigate the college application process, particularly for those aspiring to pursue healthcare careers that require higher education.

Program experiences may include assistance with FAFSA completion, college application review, information on grants and scholarship opportunities, and additional college-readiness programming.

Our USC PA Pathways Program has officially opened our Pre-PA Branch Applications for this school year. Our Pre-PA Branch focuses on enhancing the PA applicant pool to prepare students from all backgrounds to practice medicine and provide service to the medically underserved. We strive to guide and support participants throughout their application process to facilitate acceptance into ANY accredited PA program. Below are some topics that will be discussed during the program.

• Application Process
• Scholarships and Grants
• Resume Review
• Mock Interviews
• Clinical and Volunteer Opportunities

The Pre-Behavioral Health (Pre-BH) Branch will encourage high school students to explore the many pathways available to support mental health and community care through dynamic guest speakers, storytelling, and interactive discussions. We offer two field trips: (1) Wellness Agency Tour, (2) Mental Health Conference. Participants will engage in hands-on learning experiences and hear directly from professionals about their educational attainment, the cost of their program, income, expertise, and their personal message aimed at inspiring the new generation of changemakers. This branch centers the importance of mental wellness, healing, and advocacy, especially in underserved communities.

Fields Explored Include, but are not limited to: 

• Psychologist – (College, Master’s, and PhD Levels)
• Psychiatrist – (College, Master’s, and PhD Levels)
• Case Manager – (College Level)
• Mental Health Coaches – (Vocational) 
• Social Workers – (College, Master’s, and PhD Levels)
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker – (College, Master’s, and PhD Levels)
• Licensed Marital Family Therapist – (College, Master’s, and PhD Levels)
• Occupational Therapist – (Master’s and PhD Levels)
• Substance Use Counselor – (Vocational, College, Master’s, and PhD Levels)
• Sports Therapist – (Master’s and PhD Levels)
• Speech Therapist – (Master’s and PhD Levels)
• Wraparound Program Specialist – (College, Master’s Level) 
• Applied Behavioral Analyst – (Vocational, College Level, Master’s, PhD Levels)
• Crisis Interventionalist – (College Level)
• Full Service Program – (College, Master’s Level)
• Education Advocate – (College, Master’s Level) 
• Targeted Behavioral Therapist – (College Level)
• Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor  – (Master’s Level
• Suicide Prevention Specialist – (College Level)\
• Certified Mindfulness Practitioner – (College Level)

We’re excited to continue the second year of the Pre-PA Virtual Branch. Designed to support aspiring Physician Assistants (PAs), this program provides accessible, high-quality guidance for students who may not be able to participate in our in-person offerings.

The Pre-PA Virtual Branch offers a comprehensive, remote experience that helps students navigate the path to PA school. Participants gain access to essential resources, including CASPA application support, mentorship from current PA students and professionals, networking opportunities, and interactive learning sessions, all from anywhere.

Beyond resources, students join a supportive, like-minded community committed to personal and professional growth in the PA field. We are especially dedicated to uplifting and empowering students from disadvantaged and underserved backgrounds by expanding access to PA school preparation.

Whether you are just beginning to explore the PA profession or preparing to apply, the Pre-PA Virtual Branch is here to support your journey. We invite you to apply and take the next step toward becoming a future healthcare leader. Students must be 18 years of age or older.

In partnership with USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, the Pre-OT Branch is designed to support aspiring occupational therapy students at every stage of their journey. We offer personalized mentorship, guidance on prerequisite planning, application strategy, and professional development, as well as insight into the realities of OT school and the profession. Through one-on-one support and practical resources, our program empowers Pre-OT students to build confidence, clarify their goals, and take intentional steps toward becoming future occupational therapy practitioners. Participants must be 18 and over.

In partnership with the USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, we’re excited to introduce the Pre-Physical Therapy (Pre-PT)  Branch, a new initiative of the USC PA Pathways Program. Designed to support aspiring physical therapists, this program provides accessible, high-quality guidance for students navigating the path to PT school.

The Pre-PT Branch offers a comprehensive experience that equips students with the tools and knowledge needed to pursue a career in physical therapy. Participants gain access to personalized mentorship, guidance on prerequisite planning, application strategy, and professional development, as well as insight into the realities of PT school and the profession. Additional resources, including application support, networking opportunities, and interactive learning sessions.

Beyond resources, students become part of a supportive, like-minded community committed to personal and professional growth in the field of physical therapy. 

Whether you are just beginning to explore physical therapy or preparing to apply, the Pre-PT Virtual Branch is here to support your journey. We invite you to apply and take the next step toward becoming a future physical therapist. Students must be 18 or older to join.