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STEP-UP Rehabilitation Sciences

Program Information Contact

Nia Thomas
Project Coordinator
Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences

901 Walnut Street, Suite 600
Philadelphia, PA 19107

The Summer Training and Enrichment Program (STEP-UP) is for undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in occupational therapy, physical therapy, athletic training or speech-language pathology and who are traditionally underrepresented in these disciplines. This includes students who identify with historically marginalized communities, including:

  • students from underrepresented racial/ethnic minorities
  • first-generation college students
  • students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds
  • students who identify within the LGBTQ+ communities
  • students who are actively serving or previously served in the military

STEP-UP helps students become competitive applicants to graduate school and provides a clearer understanding of the expectations and roles of both graduate students and professionals in rehabilitation science fields.

Program Details

The Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences (JCRS) at Thomas Jefferson University is hosting its Summer Training & Enrichment Program for Underrepresented Persons (STEP-UP) this summer from June 2 - June 10, 2025.

Who: Students who have completed at least one year of undergraduate college courses and identify as part of any of the historically marginalized communities listed above.

Dates:  June 2 - June 10, 2025 (Weekdays Only)
Time: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm daily
Cost: The program is free to participants
Application Deadline: April 21, 2025

Apply for the STEP-UP Program
Complete this survey for the Summer 2025 program

Please Note

  • Students will be required to submit documentation of full vaccination against COVID 19
  • At this time, we cannot guarantee housing on campus, but are actively looking for options. If you require housing, please reach out and let us know

This program offers an introduction to the aforementioned rehabilitation sciences disciplines, classroom, lab and simulation experiences, time management and study skills training, personal statement and resume development and an introduction to the admissions process and strategies for a more successful application. Participants will be provided the opportunity to work with admissions and writing center personnel after the program to gain a more tailored review of academic preparedness and personal statement development.

Participants who complete the entire program will receive a certificate of completion.

Testimonials

"I would like to thank each and every one at Jefferson who were with me and the other OT STEP-UP students throughout this program. Everyone was so helpful and informative. We all got to learn so much from everyone's experience on how they got to their goal, and the advice and tips that were given to all of us were very helpful."

— Sonia Maryam

"This program introduced me to so many people - students, faculty, and future students - that all shared the same interest and passion. Being surrounded by these people everyday helped us further establish the reasons why occupational therapy fit us best."

— Ann Claire Macalintal 

"Being in the program has solidified my desire to be an occupational therapist. Everyone was so supportive and it really left such a positive, motivating impact on my life."

— Joy Jamil