Step 1

West Michigan OsteoScholars:
College Preparation & Mentoring

During the academic year, students attend monthly programs hosted by the Foundation and Michigan State University’s Extension Services. These modules help students to improve their educational opportunities through skills-based volunteerism, scholarships and financial aid, interview skills, and more.  Through interaction with local DOs, students learn about medical specialties, how to navigate medical school and residency, and they have even practiced medical procedures at the Trinity Health Muskegon Regional Simulation Lab. Meetings are typically held in the evenings each month from September through May. The program is open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors in Muskegon, Oceana, Newaygo, and northern Ottawa Counties.

Apply online for the 2023-2024 OsteoScholars  here. Applications and required attachments – unofficial transcript, personal statement and list of experiences and extracurricular activities will be accepted on a rolling basis until the program is full.  Apply early for the best opportunity.

RETURNING Students: Submit application and required attachment (unofficial transcript only) here.

Step 2

OsteoCHAMPS:
MSUCOM Summer Mini-Medical School Program

High school sophomores and juniors may apply for OsteoCHAMPS, a capstone summer program hosted by Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. The Osteopathic Foundation is pleased to provide full scholarships to many students each year who have successfully completed the OsteoScholars program.

Over the course of nine days, students experience life and learning on the University campus. The curriculum includes medical and life skills training with the goal of preparing students for a successful journey to and through medical school.  For many students, this is their first experience of university life.

OsteoCHAMPS was founded in 2000 by Margaret I. Aguwa, DO, Professor and Associate Dean for Community Outreach and Clinical Research at MSUCOM.  The Osteopathic Foundation of West Michigan has been a key partner since the program’s inception.

In addition to providing full scholarships to attend the OsteoCHAMPS summer program at MSU, the Foundation also awards $500 college tuition scholarships to select participants.

Step 3

Osteopathic Medical Scholars:
A Pathway to Medical School at MSUCOM

Students who enroll at MSU for undergraduate education have the option to apply for MSU’s Osteopathic Medical Scholars Program in which college students are paired with mentors and MSUCOM advisors in preparation for medical school.  Qualified students may receive preferential admission to MSUCOM upon graduation and may be permitted to waive the MCAT requirement.

By investing in local students, providing a path through medical school, and encouraging them to return to the Lakeshore to practice, we strengthen our osteopathic legacy and insure its future.