A pipeline event is any program or event that aims to inspire young students to pursue careers in medicine. School-age children’s understanding of possible career choices is often limited by their real-world experiences and exposure. Research shows that early exposure to career awareness (as early as elementary school) can be critical to career readiness. Therefore, the JMU PA Program hosts and/or participates with several pipeline events annually in order to:

• Expose young students to medical careers
• Create enthusiasm about higher education
• Instill confidence that future goals are achievable

Additionally, pipeline events provide opportunities for graduate-level PA students to engage with the local community and to help teach the next generation. There are four key events annually:

1. Valley Scholars
2. CHBS Pathways
3. First-grade Field Trip
4. Fifth-grade Field Trip