December 13, 2011

Dear Superintendant: Once again, its that time of year! Our deadlines for the state-wide, state-funded Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP) are fast approaching, and we dont want your students to miss out! If you have seniors who are considering careers in medicine, dentistry or pharmacy, they are eligible to apply to the HCOP program at the West Virginia University Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center. This program can give them a FREE head start towards a career and can continue to help them throughout their undergraduate and health professional school years. Participating students will receive a stipend to pay for room, meals, and other program expenses. Incoming freshmen attending any WV college or university are encouraged to apply! The Health Careers Opportunity Program begins with a six-week, intensive academic summer component. This summer program will give incoming freshmen students a stronger academic base from which to start their college career. In addition, they will get a chance to adjust to college life before their fall semester begins. HCOP students get to know a number of professors well during the summer program, and thus will feel comfortable asking professors for help when they need it throughout their college years. HCOP students get a chance to build friendships with each other and enjoy the benefits of a community of faculty and staff partnering with them as they pursue their dreams. Not only that, the experience is a lot of fun! The Preliminary Education (PE) program for incoming college freshmen will be held on the campus of West Virginia University. The dates of this years program are June 18 - July 27, 2012. Applications can be filled out and submitted on-line at: www.wvhcop.org under the Preliminary Education (PE) link. Deadline for applications is April 21, 2012. If you have any questions or would like more information, please call the HCOP office. Our toll free number for in-state long distance calls is 1-800-345-4267 ext. 1. Our office hours are 8:30 AM to 4:45 PM. Please help us pass this information along to eligible students. We look forward to partnering with you and your students to ensure their success! Sincerely, Ed Cole, MS Sr. Program Coordinator Health Careers Opportunity Program