Academics

Health Professions Institute

The Health Professions Institute opens a new chapter in the Thiel College story of student-focused liberal arts education in support of professional excellence. Small classes, intensive mentoring, early application of classroom knowledge to human health and well-being, and guided tours of the unique contributions of literature, philosophy, and the fine arts to the art and science of healing are hallmarks of the Health Professions Institute. 

Mission statement

Recognizing the transformational value of applying knowledge to read-world issues and opportunities; building upon a tradition of exceptional science education; and understanding the societal need for superior and broadly humanistic preparation of health professionals, The Health Professions Institute at Thiel College proudly sponsors an extraordinary program of support and engagement for students desiring a career in the health professions.

Health Systems and Related Majors

Numerous Bachelors of Arts and Science majors are compatible with Health Professions Institute participation at Thiel. The health systems major provides students interested in healthcare careers a broad foundation in biology, chemistry, psychology and ethics.

Health Professions Institute Faculty Members

The Health Professions Institute includes faculty leadership across numerous disciplines and in Career Development. Faculty help students navigate the pre-requisites for each pre-health program offered by the College, and provide information on preparing for graduate school admission and success.

Roles and Responsibilities of HPI Members

The more experienced HPI student members are expected to act as mentors to the less experienced members. The services they offer to entering students include peer-to-peer collaboration, the student perspective on study habits and internship opportunities, and personal narratives on challenges and opportunities in the health professions. 

Health professions seminars

Pre-health students participate in a variety of workshops, seminars, and symposia both in their respective majors and as members of the Health Professions institute. The Health Professions Institute Seminar Series provide guidance and resources to assist in your preparation for medical, dental, veterinary, or other professional school. You’ll gain an understanding of different career options and what these professions involve and consider ethical issues facing the health industry today.

Speakers include:

  • Health professionals
  • Admission counselors
  • Medical school faculty
  • Authors
  • Alumni and trustees
  • Current medical students
  • Community partners

Interview coaching

The application process to most pre-professional and graduate programs involves an interview. Depending on the program, the admissions committee may interview candidates individually or in a group. In either situation, the session provides the applicant with the opportunity to impress upon the committee members an exceptional level of preparation and commitment. Institute interview coaching will help you to make the best possible impression at interview time, while other aspects of Institute membership will ensure that your pre-graduate experience has been outstanding.

In most cases, the committee members will have access to your application materials. A good strategy involves more than reminding them of your scores, grades, and other statistics. You need to let the committee get to know you and understand why you are an attractive candidate for their program. For example, in your resume/cv you may have mentioned a research project or internship. The interview gives you the opportunity to expand upon that description and share with the committee what you learned and how that experience has helped inform your decision to apply to their program.

To help you prepare for this part of the application process, the Health Professions Institute has developed a list of common questions you may want to consider before the interview process.

Mock interviews

Mock interviews can be scheduled to help refine your interview skills. The mock interview will be conducted like a real interview, with several notable exceptions.

  • Interviews will be recorded.
  • Committee members will review the tape with you to comment on what you did well and highlight areas that need improvement.
  • After you’ve had time to consider these comments, you’ll have an opportunity to repeat the process as needed.
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Greenville, PA 16125
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