Christie J. Zachary, MS
- Position
- Program Director for Student Outreach and Marketing, WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health, Institute for Community and Rural Health
- Organization
- West Virginia University
Rural Undergraduate Shadowing in Healthcare Program
Rural Undergraduate Shadowing in Healthcare (RUSH)
Program Description
The Rural Undergraduate Shadowing in Healthcare Program (RUSH) is designed to provide participants with a unique experience that offers insight into what it is like to practice a health profession in rural West Virginia. As a RUSHer, you will:
Shadow a rural practitioner for a total of 20 hours during specific dates agreed upon by the participating practitioner and the student.
Work with the WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health and the WVU Pre-Health Professional Development Office to identify other rural-related programs relevant to your chosen health profession discipline including research and service activities.
Meet one or more times with the Pre-Health Professional Development Office to put together your professional school application including guidance on class choice, writing a personal statement, mock interviews, and obtaining a committee letter.
You may also have the chance to participate in an activity with the regional Area Health Education Center (AHEC) during the shadowing experience.
Receive a participation award of $300 after shadow completion.
Eligibility
Must be a current, undergraduate WVU student in good academic standing that is planning to pursue a health professions career with the long-term goal of practicing in rural and/or underserved areas of West Virginia. There are eleven RUSH slots available for the 2026-2027 cohort.
Behavioral Medicine -1
Dentistry - 2
Family Medicine - 4
Nurse Practitioner - 1
Obsterics and Gynecology - 1
Physical Therapy - 1
Physician Assistant - 1
The following program Materials must be reviewed prior to submitting your application:
Application
Full application packet must be completed by September 18, 2026.
If you have any questions, contact Christie Zachary, Program Manager for Student Outreach and Marketing with the WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health.