Cook shares health career opportunities with MCC students
Meridian Community College students learned how they can get help becoming doctors and dentists while preparing to serve rural Mississippi during a visit from Dr. Tabora Cook.
Dr. Cook, senior director of the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program and Mississippi Rural Dentists Scholarship Program, discussed scholarships, mentoring, and hands-on learning opportunities during an on-campus information session.
The programs offer eligible students up to $35,000 a year for up to four years of medical or dental school. In return, recipients agree to practice in an approved rural Mississippi community for one year for each year of scholarship support.
Dr. Cook explained that support begins before students enter medical or dental school ranging from receiving help preparing for entrance exams, to gaining experience in rural clinics and connect with practicing doctors and dentists. The programs also help graduates as they begin their careers.
He encouraged students to plan early, build relationships with instructors, and focus on their science grades. He also urged them to choose the programs based on a desire to serve rural communities.
Dr. Cook said bringing more health care providers to small towns can improve access to care and strengthen local economies by creating jobs.
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.