UNO Pre-Health Symposium 2025

The Pre-Health Symposium (PHS) is hosted by UNO's Health Careers Resource Center in collaboration with the Omaha AHEC and provides students with the opportunity to connect with healthcare training programs from around the United States, healthcare and human service providers, job and volunteer opportunities, hands on activities such as anatomy labs, suture clinics, healthcare simulators, and many more. This is the premier event for you to engage with healthcare, human services, and STEM based careers and programs.

Quick Links: PHS Main Page | PHS Program PDF | College & Career Fair Map | 10 AM Sessions | 11 AM Sessions | 1 PM Sessions | 2 PM Sessions

View our PHS 2025 Program

What the day includes:

College & Career Fair 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Milo Bail Student Center Atrium (1st floor), Dodge Room A and B (3rd floor), Nebraska Room and Ballroom (2nd floor), Room 222 (2nd floor)
Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center 201, 205, 209 (2nd floor)

Check out our Gold and Platinum Participants and visit them at the Fair

View the College & Career Fair Table Map to find all our partner organizations and programs during the Fair: Looking for a specific program or organization? Check out the College and Career Fair Table Map.

Nebraska Patient Safety Assistant Drop In Interviews

10:00 AM-12:00 PM and 1:00-3:00 PM | Milo Bail Student Center (MBSC) Room 220 and 224

Meet with Nebraska Medicine and learn about their exciting job opportunities for pre-health students. Drop-ins welcome throughout the day!

BREAKOUT SESSIONS 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Signature Breakout
EXPLORING HEALTHCARE FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE STUDENTS

10:00-10:50 AM, 11:00-11:50 AM, 1:00-1:50 PM, and 2:00-2:50 PM | 310 Allwine Hall | Panel

Join us for our most popular panels, featuring up to 5 different healthcare professionals each! These sessions run four times throughout the day, with each panel featuring different professionals and careers. The Exploring Healthcare Careers Panels give you a unique opportunity to hear from experts about their career journeys, what a typical day in their field looks like, and valuable advice for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. Whether you're exploring career options or looking to learn more about the industry, these panels are packed with insight you won’t want to miss!

10:00 AM Sessions

CAREERS IN HEALTHCARE LEADERSHIP

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 228 Chancellor's Room | Platinum Breakout hosted by ACHE of Nebraska and Western Iowa | Panel

Join the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) for Nebraska and Western Iowa for a dynamic panel discussion on leadership in healthcare. Hear from industry professionals as they share insights on career paths, rewards, challenges, and future leadership hurdles. An interactive Q&A session invites audience participation to explore the evolving landscape of healthcare leadership.

APPLICATIONS TO ACCEPTANCE: YOUR ROADMAP TO ALLIED HEALTH SUCCESS

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 304 Omaha Room | Platinum Breakout hosted by UNMC College of Allied Health Professions | Presentation

Ready to join the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions? Learn how to craft a strong application, ace your interview, and stand out in a competitive field. Get insider tips to boost your chances and take the next step toward your future in healthcare!

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AND NETWORKING

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 306 Council Room | Interactive Presentation

Learn how to build and leverage your interpersonal skills as a pre-health student to get ahead in the workforce. Presented by Nathan Hankenson, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement for the UNO Alumni Association.

MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 308 Gallery Room | Panel

Get an inside look into the world of mental and behavioral health. Hear from a diverse group of mental health professionals, including social workers, psychologists, counselors, therapists, and applied behavior analysts, as they share their unique career paths, what they do in their roles, and the exciting opportunities for education and jobs in the field. Whether you're curious about mental health careers or looking to learn how to get started, these panelists will give you valuable insights to help shape your future!

WHY AGING MATTERS FOR FUTURE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS: DEBUNKING MYTHS

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 315 Redick Room | Interactive Presentation

This will be a fun and interactive presentation with lots of audience participation and hands-on activities presented by the UNO Department of Gerontology. Participants will discover some of their own biases about aging and will learn why gerontology is an essential ingredient to any future health or human service career.

uBEATS WORKSHOP: FREE HEALTH AND SCIENCES LEARNING RESOURCES

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 319 Tower Room | Presentation for High School Teachers

Are you a Middle School or High School teacher? Would you like to enhance your Science, Health, or Health Science instruction? Do you like FREE resources? Check out uBEATS! uBEATS is a free, E-Learning Health Science resource for 6-12th grades with 100 e-modules in our library. Get access and learn more at this session!

WHY STUDY MEDICAL HUMANITIES?

10:00-10:50 AM | CPACS 132 | Panel/Interactive

Want to dive into the human aspects of care and caregiving, healthcare practices, and patient experiences? Medical Humanities brings together insights from the humanities, social sciences, and arts, inviting you to explore and analyze human dimensions of illness, suffering, and healing. Qualities valued in clinical staff, like empathy, tolerance for ambiguity, adaptability, and resilience are at the heart of medical humanities. These aspects can help professionals avoid burnout from the demanding clinical environment. Join this interactive panel hosted by the UNO Medical Humanities faculty to explore why studying medical humanities provides an excellent foundation for people working in healthcare positions.

SCHOLARSHIPS: FINDING FREE MONEY FOR COLLEGE

10:00-10:50 AM | CEC 230 | Platinum Breakout hosted by Sallie Mae | Presentation

Scholarships can be a huge help to college-bound students and their families, but many don’t know where to find them, or how to apply. During this session, hosted by Sallie Mae, students and families will learn key tips on applying for scholarships, how to create a winning scholarship essay, and more.

CHI MEDICAL IMAGING CASE STUDY

10:00-10:50 AM | CEC 231 | Interactive Presentation

Curious about what really happens inside the human body after a car crash or major injury?
Or how the body transforms during pregnancy—from the inside out?

Join us for the Medical Imaging Case Study session, where expert radiography and sonography professionals share real-life cases straight from a Level 1 Trauma Center. See how cutting-edge imaging reveals the incredible (and sometimes shocking) ways the human body responds to trauma and change.

Don’t miss this rare, behind-the-scenes look at the power of medical imaging in action!

INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH RESEARCH: TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES

10:00-10:50 AM | Criss Library Room 232, Main Floor | Interactive Presentation

Wondering how to do quality health research quickly and efficiently? Join UNMC and UNO librarians for expert tips on finding, reading, and interpreting studies using Google Scholar and PubMed. Bring your questions and ask us anything – no question is too large or too small!

11:00 AM Sessions

INTENTIONALITY IN PREPARING FOR CAREERS IN BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

11:00-11:50 AM | MBSC 228 Chancellor's Room | Platinum Breakout hosted by Community Alliance | Presentation

Thinking about a career in behavioral health? You may wonder how you can gain experience and best prepare for work in this field. Join an experienced representative from Community Alliance to explore skills, knowledge and competencies needed for success and how to grow in these areas.

MULTILINGUAL HEALTHCARE

11:00-11:50 AM | MBSC 304 Omaha Room | Panel

Join us for a unique panel featuring multilingual healthcare professionals who will share their experiences using multiple languages in their careers. They'll explain how being multilingual enhances their work and the importance of being prepared to serve patients who speak languages beyond English. Whether you're passionate about healthcare, interested in the ins and outs of medical interpreting, or want to know how language skills can impact patient care, this panel is a great opportunity to learn how multilingualism can set you apart in the field!

SCIENCE-HUMANITIES INTERFACE

10:00-10:50 AM | MBSC 306 Council Room | Presentation

The physical and biological sciences are developing better methods to explore the past. Humanists already have methods of historical inquiry, but they have limits. Can these fields work together to study climate change, pandemics, or other phenomena that we need to understand to inform our future? This special guest lecture sponsored by the UNO History Department features reknowned medical historian, Monica Green, PhD.

IMPOSTER SYNDROME

11:00-11:50 AM | MBSC 308 Gallery Room | Panel

Feeling like you don’t belong, even when you’ve accomplished so much? You’re not alone. In this panel, healthcare professionals and educators share their personal experiences with 'Imposter Syndrome'—the feeling of inadequacy despite clear achievements. They’ll open up about their struggles and provide practical tips for overcoming these feelings, helping you build confidence and thrive in your journey. Don’t miss this chance to hear from those who've been through it and come out stronger on the other side!

COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE HEALTHCARE CAREERS

11:00-11:50 AM | MBSC 315 Redick Room | Panel

Explore diverse, holistic health careers with experts in herbalism, nutrition, sound healing, energy medicine, and hypnotherapy. Join Inspire Collaborative Health Association’s panel to learn about their journeys, innovative practices, and how they’re transforming wellness and expanding opportunities in healthcare.

DECODING DIABETES: HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW?

11:00-11:50 AM | MBSC 319 Tower Room | Platinum Breakout hosted by the University of South Dakota School of Health Sciences | Interactive Presentation

During this hands-on session brought to you by the University of South Dakota School of Health Sciences, students will assist in diagnosing a patient with type II diabetes. They will partake in a urine analysis, sugar consumption, and how diabetes can be managed with diet, exercise, and medications. Students will do an insulin injection to end the session.

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE HEALTH PROFESSIONS - HANDS ON HEALTHCARE

11:00-11:50 AM | CPACS 132 | Interactive Presentation

Come check out some hands-on activities from Metropolitan Community College's Health Professions division. Learn about the different health professions programs offered and check out some of the cool educational tools their students use. You'll have the opportunity to touch a set of pig lungs, remove staples from a manikin arm, intubate an airway head, and more! Expert faculty will be there to show you all the interesting things MCC's programs have to offer.

SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS TO COLLEGE

11:00-11:50 AM | CEC 230 | Platinum Breakout hosted by the UNO Thompson Learning Community | Presentation

TLC (Thompson Learning Community) and the First Year Experience Seminars embedded in each college are designed to promote success and support new students’ transition to college by delivering essential transitional content and ensuring access to best practices for all incoming first-time students.

LIFE AS A PRE-HEALTH STUDENT

11:00-11:50 AM | CEC 231 | Panel

Being a competitive Pre-Health student takes a lot of work! There is a lot you will need to prepare for when applying to the program of your choice. Join current UNO Pre-Health students in conversation about how they balance school, life, and work.

HEALTHCARE MAJORS & LEADERSHIP: PATHWAYS & PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS AT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

11:00-11:50 AM | CEC 127 | Platinum Breakout hosted by South Dakota State University | Presentation

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about Health Professions for undergraduate and graduate level students as well as leadership opportunities available to students at one of the highest value/lowest cost institutions in the midwest.

1:00 PM Sessions

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF PEDIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH AT CHILDREN'S NEBRASKA

1:00-1:50 PM | MBSC 228 Chancellor's Room | Panel

Be part of something bigger! Children’s Nebraska’s new Behavioral Health & Wellness Center is transforming pediatric mental health care. Learn how you can make a difference, grow your career, and join a team dedicated to changing lives.

CRAFTING A STRONG APPLICATION

1:00-1:50 PM | MBSC 304 Omaha Room | Panel

Get the inside scoop from admissions representatives from top health professions training programs! This panel will cover everything you need to know about applying— from key tips for standing out in your applications to what’s expected in terms of extracurriculars, academics, timelines, and application materials. Whether you’re gearing up for grad school or planning your next steps, this is your chance to get expert advice on navigating the application process!

WOMEN IN SCIENCE AND MEDICINE

1:00-1:50 PM | MBSC 306 Council Room | Presentation

How many women scientists can you name besides Marie Curie? How many women healers besides Florence Nightingale? There are thousands that could be named, and you surely already know some in your own life. So why aren’t we better at telling stories of their accomplishments? This special guest lecture sponsored by the UNO History Department features reknowned medical historian, Monica Green, PhD.

PERSPECTIVES IN HEALTHCARE

1:00-1:50 PM | MBSC 308 Gallery Room | Panel

Don’t miss this powerful panel featuring healthcare professionals who have experience working with underserved, minority, and rural populations. They’ll discuss the importance of creating a healthcare environment that is diverse and inclusive, ensuring that all patients receive the care they need. Whether you’re interested in making a difference in healthcare or want to learn about the unique challenges and rewards of serving different communities, this panel will inspire and inform you!

CAREERS IN EXOTIC VETERINARY MEDICINE

1:00-1:50 PM | MBSC 315 Redick Room | Presentation

From high school internships to leading wildlife rehabilitation efforts, Dr. Allison Carter’s career journey has included zoos, clinics, and specialized wildlife centers. Learn about diverse paths in veterinary medicine and Dr. Carter’s passion for advancing wildlife medicine through education and research. Allison Carter, DVM, serves as the Medical Director for Nebraska Wildlife Rehab.

SCHOLARSHIP 101: UNO SCOTT SCHOLARS PROGRAM

1:00-1:50 PM | MBSC 319 Tower Room | Platinum Breakout hosted by UNO Scott Scholars Program | Presentation for High School Teachers

Learn about this full-ride, STEM scholarship’s benefits and requirements. You’ll leave knowing how to support your students through the application cycle!

SURGICAL ASSISTING: HANDS-ON EXPLORATION

1:00-1:50 PM | CPACS 132 | Platinum Breakout hosted by Southeast Community College | Interactive Presentation

This hands on session, hosted by Southeast Community College, provides the opportunity to explore some of the daily duties of the surgical technologist and the surgical first assist. Activities will include donning a sterile gown and gloves, minimally invasive surgery simulation, and surgical instrument preparation.

EXPLORING A CAREER IN COMMUNICATION DISORDERS

1:00-1:50 PM | CEC 127 | Panel

Explore the dynamic field of speech-language pathology in this panel featuring faculty, undergraduate, and graduate students from UNO's Communication Disorders Program. Learn about coursework, career opportunities, and the growing demand for professionals in this field, driven by medical advances and increased awareness of speech and language disorders across all age groups.

FRESHMAN AND DIRECT ENTRY PATHS TO OT, PT, AND SLP AT ROCKHURST

1:00-1:50 AM | CEC 230 | Platinum Breakout hosted by Rockhurst University | Presentation for High School Students

Earn a seat in Rockhurst University’s Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, or Speech-Language Pathology programs through Direct Entry! Gain early assurance as a freshman or transfer student and fast-track your degrees—some in just 5.5 years. Learn more about this opportunity by joining this exciting session!

AFFORDING HIGHER EDUCATION

1:00-1:50 PM | CEC 231 | Panel

Join us for an essential panel with financial aid experts who will guide you through the ins and outs of paying for college and professional school. From understanding student loans to exploring scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities, this session is packed with tips to help you make informed financial decisions. Whether you're planning for college or grad school, this panel is your go-to resource for mastering the financial side of your education!

2:00 PM Sessions

EDUCATION OFFERINGS AT MAYO CLINIC COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SCIENCE

2:00-2:50 PM | MBSC 228 Chancellor's Room | Platinum Session hosted by the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science | Presentation

Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science offers a variety of programs from requiring a high school diploma to graduate programs! We are a unique institution where Mayo Clinic is your campus and where you will learn from world-renowned professionals in their field.

U.S. ARMY HEALTH PROFESSIONS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

2:00-2:50 PM | MBSC 304 Omaha Room | Platinum Breakout hosted by the U.S. Army | Presentation

The U.S. Army Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) covers 100% of tuition for accredited medical or dental schools among other benefits. Pre-health students are welcome to join this session to learn more and explore how HPSP can shape their future careers.

ONE HEALTH PANEL: INTERSECTIONS OF HUMAN, ANIMAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

2:00-2:50 PM | MBSC 306 Council Room | Panel

One Health explores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Featuring experts in veterinary epidemiology, wildlife health management, and wildlife rehabilitation medicine, this panel will address collaborative strategies to address emerging diseases, conservation challenges, and public health. This panel has been organized by Nebraska Wildlife Rehab.

MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

2:00-2:50 AM | MBSC 308 Gallery Room | Panel

Get an inside look into the world of mental and behavioral health. Hear from a diverse group of mental health professionals, including social workers, psychologists, counselors, therapists, and applied behavior analysts, as they share their unique career paths, what they do in their roles, and the exciting opportunities for education and jobs in the field. Whether you're curious about mental health careers or looking to learn how to get started, these panelists will give you valuable insights to help shape your future!

HEALTHCARE CAREERS IN DATA, MANAGEMENT, AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

2:00-2:50 PM | MBSC 315 Redick Room | Panel

The healthcare industry is evolving rapidly, driven by data, technology, and innovative management strategies. This panel will explore the diverse and impactful career opportunities at the intersection of healthcare, data science, management, and information systems. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of non-clinical career options that are shaping the future of healthcare and learn how to leverage their backgrounds to make meaningful contributions in this dynamic sector.

DESIGN THINKING CHALLENGE

2:00-2:50 PM | CPACS 132 | Platinum Breakout hosted by UNO Scott Scholars Program | Interactive Presentation for High School Students

Students (high school freshmen-juniors) can attend this immersive, creative healthcare activity led by the UNO Scott Scholars Program.

FROM PIXELS TO PRINTS: PATHWAYS TO UNIQUE CAREERS IN HEALTHCARE

2:00-2:50 PM | CEC 230 | Platinum Breakout hosted by Clarkson College | Presentation

Clarkson College prepares students for several career paths. This presentation will showcase how 3D printing is revolutionizing patient outcomes, and how our Community Health program can help you learn to transform lives and impact the world around you.

TO BORROW? NOT TO BORROW? FROM WHOM TO BORROW?

2:00-2:50 PM | CEC 231 | Platinum Breakout hosted by Earnest | Presentation

This session, brought to you by Earnest, will provide a helpful, easy-to-understand overview of the differences between federal and private loans for both parent and student borrowers, including fees, interest rates, underwriting guidelines, repayment plans and forgiveness options!