From High School to DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine)

A Clear Path for Future DOs

For high school students, becoming a doctor is a dream that can seem out of reach—especially if they are under-resourced or the first-generation to attend college.

West Michigan OsteoScholars program creates a unique experience for high school students considering healthcare careers. By exposing students to a variety of healthcare professionals and experiences conducive to a clinical medical career, OsteoScholars strives to set up students on a path for success – from high school to DO.

West Michigan OsteoScholars:
College Preparation & Mentoring

During the academic year, participating students attend monthly meetings. These modules help students to improve their educational opportunities through meet and greets with local physicians and clinicians, real time discussions with residents & medical students, meeting topics designed to prepare a student for college and advanced clinical degrees/medical school, hands-on learning opportunities, college focused field trips, job shadowing and more. 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 who meet the minimum GPA requirements along with a commitment to strong participation & engagement.

Students who successfully complete two years of OsteoScholars receive an annual college scholarship for their undergraduate education and will continue to receive scholarship awards throughout their entire educational journey. Restrictions and requirements do apply. More information is communicated to eligible students throughout the programming year.

Apply online for the 2026-2027 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: If you have participated in OsteoScholars for at least one year, please submit a returning student application with required attachment here.

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 ensure its future.

“I can do this and succeed.”

I learned I’m stronger than I thought I was. I’m sure now that I really want to be a doctor — that I can do this and succeed.
Participant, OsteoCHAMPS 2014

“Your generosity has inspired me.”

After graduating, I plan to pursue a degree in healthcare. Thanks to you, I am one step closer to that goal. Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community.
2016 OsteoCHAMPS Participant, Grand Haven High School

“This scholarship will help me continue my education.”

I will be attending Michigan State in the Fall, majoring in Human Biology, and this scholarship will greatly help me continue my education. Thank you again for this opportunity.
OsteoCHAMPS graduate, Muskegon High School

Every donation matters. Give today.

YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE OSTEOPATHIC FOUNDATION REPRESENTS AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE. GIFTS OF ALL SIZES ARE VALUED AND APPRECIATED!

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