Health Professions Advisory Office

Offers advising for students considering pre-health professions on courses of study, shadowing, MCAT, and application to medical or other health professional schools.

  • 74%

    In the last 3 years, over 70% of our students were accepted into medical school on their first try.

  • 200+

    Each year, we advise over 200 students who are admitted to health professions programs.

  • 40 yrs.

    Our team has a collective 40 years of experience in pre-health advising.

Our Services

  • Personal Advising

    We meet 1:1 with you to offer guidance on matters pertaining to academic majors, careers in healthcare, class scheduling, pre-professional tracks, resume review, and the application process

  • Resource Guidance

    We ensure that you feel well-connected to the resources that are integral to your success. This may include shadowing opportunities, research connections, standardized exam resources, and other health-related internship opportunities.

  • Application Advising

    We understand how complex applying to medical school and other health professions programs seems. Supplementary to our coaching sessions, we provide extensive guidance in preparation for applying to these programs.

Shadowing Opportunities

Through shadowing, undergraduate students can observe professionals in action, learn about their day-to-day responsibilities and the skills, knowledge, and expertise required to excel in their field. Current Vanderbilt undergraduates can participate in shadowing through the VPS Shadowing Program or by finding a physician independently. 

2023 Annual Report

Each year, we compile comprehensive data on how our students performed in the latest application cycle. Our annual report includes data on student GPAs, MCAT scores, applicant volume by school, and more.

Join the HPAO ListServ

We relay valuable information via our weekly email announcements to current VU undergraduate students.

Do You Need an Appointment?

For 'Quick Questions' (5-10 Minutes maximum) please join a walk-in session (times below) or send an email to the HPAO. For lengthier conversations, please schedule an appointment, instructions for which are outlined below.

Office Location

2101 West End Avenue; Moore College A101; Nashville, TN 37240

Walk-In Hours:
(5-10 minute questions only)

The HPAO will offer In-Person Walk-in hours during these times:

Coming soon for Fall 2024