Launched in Fall 2021, the Pre-Medical Program (PMP) at Montclair State University, was created to support students pursuing medical school. Since its inception, the program has intentionally expanded to meet the needs of not only pre-med but also pre-health students, offering a comprehensive support system for Montclair and Bloomfield students and alums aspiring to pursue careers in medicine and the health professions.
The PMP is rooted in a “one-size, fits-one” philosophy, personalizing its guidance to match each student’s strengths, goals, and unique experiences. The program actively works to reduce barriers — whether financial, social, or systemic — by offering opportunities that do not rely on pre-existing social capital or high financial means. Partnerships with medical centers, pipelines to professional schools, and access to volunteer and enrichment programs empower students to navigate the complexities of pre-health preparation with confidence and clarity.
At the heart of the Pre-Medical Program is its mission to foster a supportive and trustworthy environment prioritizing students’ mental health, wellness, and "human flourishing." Through the peer mentor program and providing intentional ways to connect with staff, faculty, and campus resources, the program cultivates a community where students' feel a strong sense of belonging. Students are encouraged from their start in the program to explore their motivations for entering the healthcare field, reflect on their journey, and develop the self-efficacy and competencies needed to succeed. As students approach the application cycle, they receive individualized support — including personal statement coaching, mock interviews, application guidance, and personalized committee letters.
Through mentorship, academic advising, experiential learning, and application preparation, the PMP equips students not only to be competitive candidates but also compassionate future healthcare professionals capable of driving meaningful change.
Student Voices:
“Thank you so much! It was such a pleasure to speak with you and collaborate with everyone at the PMP. I genuinely could not have done it without any of you. You rock! I appreciate all the help and I know that all the students at Montclair are lucky to have such a talented team…You are part of the reason students like me and more are able to get these opportunities and be something bigger than themselves! Continue to be the best!”
-PMP Student, Class of 2025, Starting Optometry School in 2025
“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for everything. I’m so excited to share that I got into NYU Dental School. I truly couldn’t have done this without your support. The interview prep and advice made such a huge difference. I can’t even tell you how much it helped me feel more confident. I’m so grateful for all the time and effort the PMP program put into guiding me through this process. It meant a lot. Thank you again for everything!”
- Seleen, Class of 2025, Starting NYU Dental School in 2025
“The career fair was a phenomenal event, where I got to talk to the medical school personnel that were present, and gain valuable insight into the process of medical school and information from a current medical school student. It was a phenomenal experience, and I hope the success from the event will help fund pre-medical students of Montclair State with MCAT prep, medical school prep and more. Pursuing medicine is a challenging career both academically and financially, so any sort of help matters and can prove instrumental in a student’s success.”
-Melvin, Class of 2026
“Thank you so much, I truly appreciate everything the Pre-Medical Program does, especially helping me connect with Mountainside Hospital. I loved volunteering there, and I’m also very grateful for your support when we started HOSA. I truly appreciate all that you’re doing!” - Nour, Class of 2025
Partnership Program - Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine Winter Immersion Program Student Feedback:
"The Hackensack Meridian Health Winter M.I.N.D.S Program, has helped me engage more about how AI technology is evolving to better medicine, the importance of advocating for language interpreting, and providing real-life experience in a hospital setting by shadowing a doctor. I enjoyed hearing the other medical professionals and guest speakers [share] their input on their careers, and learning more about the importance of advocating for excellent patient care for all.” - PMP student
“The Winter M.I.N.D.S. program provided me with a lot of valuable knowledge about the various specialties in medicine, along with in-depth insights about the journey to medical school. I am grateful for this opportunity that allowed me to connect with different healthcare professionals, preparing me for my future.” Mehjabin, Class of 2025
Impact of different donation amounts with an advisor discount:
- $10 can provide a set of MCAT practice questions in a subject area
- $25 or 5 gifts of $5 can provide an official full length diagnostic practice MCAT
- $250 can provide a one-year subscription to the full bundle of AAMC MCAT Official Prep Online Resources
- $500 can provide access to an intensive, 3-month DAT prep class for one student
- $800 can provide access to a 6-month DAT prep class for one student
- 8 gifts of $1,250 or $10,000 can provide access for 8 students to participate in a live, online intensive MCAT prep course
