HPSP Scholarship

Health Professions Scholarship Program (My Army Experience)

So, I interviewed all 3 branches (Army, Air Force, and Navy) and they are mostly the same. The big difference was at the time (Navy - required a GMO, General Medical Officer, year after your intern year). So, with the Navy you would pay back 5 years for a 4 year scholarship.

I only have 30 days left of my scholarship, so let's get it!

1. Cost --> Can I stress cost too much? Medical school is expensive. As of 2020, the average cost of medical school education is 200,000!!! That does not include undergraduate degree or master degrees. Whew!! Are you sweating yet? That is a lot!! So, how are you going to pay for your medical school education? Well, HPSP gives you one option. They buy your tuition and fees, books (they have changed over the years what books/equipment they will pay for) and you receive a monthly stipend (close to $2,000). The stipend does not change depending on your location, so just know that. It is standard no matter where you go to school. So, of course rent is cheaper in the south. If you go to medical school in the south, you will most likely have more money in your pocket than if you go in NY city. Scholarships can be 2, 3, or 4 year.

2. Experience --> How do you pay back? Well, it is based on how many years they pay for? Most people will opt for the 3-4 year scholarships. The bonus is not available for everyone (mostly 3/4 year scholarship participants). Your payback will depend on your amount of residency as well. If you residency is equal or less to your scholarship, then you will pay back whichever is higher. For example (4 year HPSP scholarship + 3 year Pediatric residency = You owe 4 years back after your pediatric residency as a staff). If your residency is longer than your 4 year scholarship, you could owe back more than the 4 years. Would I do this again? Absolutely!

3. Pay Back - Of course, you have good and bad experiences. One thing about the military, you can not change your leadership or just move because you are not happy. I had some WONDERFUL leadership and some HORRIBLE leadership throughout my process. Unlike in a civilian job, if you are unable, you leave. You can not just leave on your military tour. You serve 3-5 years at said base no matter the circumstances. Military has great training programs and experiences. By far, you will be sought after once you transition to civilian practice due to your experiences. (No matter what field of medicine you pursue).

So, I hope this helps you! Check out my YouTube channel for other videos/VLOGs. https://youtube.com/channel/UC6rxufM37dKy7MqQgULBpuQ

Have a great day!

Cierrea