Conemaugh Health System is now accepting applications for the Class of 2026 Mentoring in Medicine program. Entering its 23rd year, the program, founded by Drs. Richard and Diana Schroeder, continues its mission to inspire and prepare undergraduate students pursuing careers in medicine.

This distinctive 10-week summer internship provides students with immersive clinical exposure as they shadow physicians across Conemaugh Health System. Participants gain firsthand insight into a variety of medical specialties while learning about the realities of practicing medicine and the path to medical school.

“Our goal is to provide meaningful, hands-on experience that encourages local students to pursue their dreams of becoming physicians and ultimately serve their communities,” said Dr. Alex Pozun, Emergency Medicine physician at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center. Dr. Pozun, a program alumnus, now co-directs the program alongside his wife, Melissa Pozun, DPT.

In addition to clinical shadowing, students receive academic guidance to support their medical school journey, including personal statement development, interview preparation, and mentorship from practicing physicians.

Since its inception, Mentoring in Medicine has supported 220 students and maintains an impressive 80% medical school acceptance rate. Twenty alumni now practice within Conemaugh Health System and surrounding communities—demonstrating the program’s deep and lasting impact.

Admission is highly competitive, with only 10 positions available each year. Eligible applicants must:

· Be a rising college junior or senior majoring in pre-med, or a first-year medical student

· Have completed at least four of the following five courses: calculus, biology, organic and/or inorganic chemistry, and physics

· Reside in Cambria, Somerset, or Bedford counties

The program is fully funded by Conemaugh Health System, and participants receive a stipend.

Students interested in applying or learning more can contact mentoringinmedicine@outlook.com. Applications for the Class of 2026 are due Saturday, February 14, 2026.