With an emphasis on individuals from a broad variety of groups, rural backgrounds, and first-generation college students, the NC AHEC Scholars Program aims to improve the supply and distribution of all health professions and to support health systems transformation across the state.
As part of the NC AHEC Scholars Program, the Area L AHEC Scholars Program recruits, trains, and supports students enrolled in health professions across Edgecombe, Halifax, Nash, Northampton, and Wilson counties. We seek individuals who are committed to improving health and health care, devoted to community service, interested in improving their own skills, and interested in working with other professionals in team-based care. Students will receive the distinction as an AHEC Scholar, which sets them apart from others in the competitive environment of health care. The experience as an AHEC Scholar will also give students a chance to engage with healthcare professionals and network with students and faculty from academic institutions throughout the region and state.
Scholars will participate in both experiential and didactic learning opportunities that will explore topics such as:
- Behavioral Health Integration
- Connecting Communities and Supporting Health Professionals
- Cultural Competency
- Current and Emerging Health Issues
- Interprofessional Education
- Practice Transformation
- Social Determinants of Health
- Virtual Learning and Telehealth
Scholars will also participate in a statewide conference where they will have the opportunity to meet Scholars from across the state, participate in didactic sessions, network with employers and representatives from graduate and professional programs, and more! Check out the 2nd Annual Emerging Leaders in Healthcare Conference!
Hear more from a Cohort 1 AHEC Scholar!
AHEC Scholars Program Requirements
Eligibility Requirements to Apply:
- For Cohort 9: Must be enrolled full-time in a college-level, approved, health professions education training program by August 31, 2026 within Edgecombe, Halifax, Nash, or Wilson County, have two years remaining, and be on track to graduate in the Spring of 2028
- Reliable access to Wi-Fi
- Reliable access to transportation
- Eligible to work inside the United States
Program Commitments:
- Be committed to the program for a total of two years
- Complete all required assignments
- Complete 40 hours of didactic training each year of the program
- Complete 40 hours of experiential/clinical training each year of the program
Program Benefits:
- Receive a stipend of $1,000 per year ($2,000 total – subject to academic or institutional approval) to offset expenses
- Receive the distinction as an AHEC Scholar and be set apart from others in the competitive environment of health care
- Opportunity to interact with healthcare professionals, gain exposure to health careers, and create an invaluable network for your future career
- Be better positioned to work with patients in rural communities
Program Event Dates:
- Info Session Webinars: To learn more about the program and have your questions answered, there are two virtual meeting opportunities –
April 21, 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
July 7, 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM - 9/7/26: Orientation, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM, Rocky Mount
- 10/6/26: Virtual Didactic, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- 11/7/26: In-Person Didactic, TBD
- February 2027 Weekend TBD: 4th Annual Emerging Leaders in Healthcare Conference, Raleigh
- 3/6 – 7/27: Area L AHEC Scholars Regional Retreat, Rocky Mount
- 4/19/27: Graduation/Final Meeting, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM, Rocky Mount
TO APPLY:
- To submit an application, click here.
- Final Deadline: August 31, 2026
- Each applicant will be contacted to schedule an interview with the Director of Health Careers after application submission.