July 21, 2026 — Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, with healthcare and social assistance projected to be the fastest-growing employment sector in the U.S. from 2024–2034. One out of every three new jobs created over the next decade is expected to be in healthcare occupations. To help meet this growing demand, Marist offers extensive pre-health opportunities that prepare students for careers across the healthcare field.

“The pre-health program at Marist is nothing short of incredible. As a first-generation college student, a small program with abundant resources was so important to me, and Marist provided me with just that. Having a specific pre-health advisor was the perfect addition to the program. Jessica Welsh took so much time to help me research schools and programs, review personal statements and supplemental essays, and prepare for interviews. I was able to get accepted into multiple PA programs on my first cycle. I don’t know where I would be without her and the Marist pre-health team!”— Alexa Abrams '25, Future PA Student.

A Hub for Exploration and Direction

At Marist, the pre-health program is designed to meet students where they are and grow with them over time.

Pre-Health Program Coordinator Jessica Welsh helps students navigate the complexities of the medical field as they explore paths and prepare for their future careers.

Welsh describes the pre-health program as a central hub where students can access advising, workshops, and opportunities that help them better understand both their interests and the range of careers available to them.

“I want students to understand what their goals are, and to help them explore the different pathways that are out there,” said Welsh. “I want to emphasize that you can build on the things that are important and meaningful to you, because nobody's path in the medical field is the same.”
 

Jessica Welsh. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

Through one-on-one advising and a steady calendar of programming, students are encouraged to explore fields across healthcare, including medicine, dentistry, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, public health, and more.

That exploration matters. Many students arrive with a general interest in helping people and a strong foundation in science, but limited exposure to the full range of roles in healthcare. The program helps broaden that understanding early, allowing students to consider options they may not have encountered before.

Rather than pushing students toward a single outcome, the focus is on helping them connect their interests, experiences, and long-term goals in a way that feels intentional.

“Despite my interest in the small field of veterinary medicine, the support I received during my undergraduate years is something I cannot express enough gratitude for. With the help of Jessica Welsh and other Marist faculty, I am excited to announce that I received seven acceptances into veterinary school in my first cycle - something I never could have dreamed of!” — Norah Bracci '25, DVM Candidate at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine.

Marist students engaged in a clinical rotation experience offered by Northwell Health. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

Experience That Builds Perspective

Preparing for a career in healthcare requires more than strong grades. Students need experiences that help them understand patients, systems, and the realities of care.

At Marist, those experiences take many forms. Students participate in clinical rotations, pursue internships with organizations like the New York State Office of Public Health, the Dutchess County Office of Public Health, Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, and Vassar Brothers Medical Center. Students also attend workshops focused on interviewing, applications, and professional development.

The program also brings in alumni and professionals to share their paths, giving students a clearer sense of what different careers actually look like day to day.

“It’s not just about checking boxes,” Welsh said. “It’s about pulling meaning from your experiences and understanding what care really looks like from different perspectives.”
 

Students participating in a Biology Lab at Marist. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

A Community That Grows With You

More than 500 students are currently connected to the pre-health program, forming a network that spans majors, class years, and career interests.

Students engage in different ways. Some are introduced through admissions or advising, while others find the program through peers, workshops, or campus events. A centralized Brightspace online hub provides guidance at every stage, from early exploration to preparing applications for graduate and professional schools.

Support continues after graduation as well. Welsh is focused on strengthening connections between current students and alumni, creating opportunities for mentorship, networking, and continued guidance.

“The advisement, services, and resources don’t end when a student graduates,” she said.

Why Pre-Health Programs Matters More Than Ever

Healthcare continues to grow across nearly every sector, with increasing demand for skilled professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, growth is being fueled by an aging population requiring more healthcare services, increased prevalence of chronic diseases, greater demand for behavioral and mental health services, an expansion of outpatient and community-based care, and advances in medical technology requiring a highly skilled workforce. At the same time, the need for thoughtful, patient-centered care remains constant.

“While technology continues to evolve, the ability to connect with patients, communicate clearly, and lead with empathy remains essential,” said Welsh. “Thoughtful, skilled, and compassionate providers will always be needed.”