Toro Health Pathways

Purpose

To inspire and prepare students for careers in health professions through training, mentorship, and support.

Goals

• Providing culturally and linguistically responsive programming
• Creating clear pathways to healthcare careers
• Incorporating high tech, high touch approach for student success
• Strengthening educational partnerships

Mission

The Toro Health Pathways Program inspires and prepares students for rewarding careers in health professions by providing comprehensive training, mentorship, and educational support. We foster strong partnerships between high schools, community colleges, and workforce preparation entities, while delivering culturally and linguistically responsive programming. Our mission is to empower underrepresented students by offering clear pathways to healthcare careers, facilitating their educational goals, and cultivating a culture of excellence, equity, and lifelong learning.

Vision

The Toro Health Pathways Program aims to be a transformative force in healthcare education, aligned with the College of Health, Human Services & Nursing’s vision. We strive to develop knowledgeable professionals who champion lifelong health and wellness, adaptability, and social justice. By creating innovative and equitable educational experiences, fostering a culture of care, and building strong community connections, we envision a future where our program serves as a pillar of the community and empowers students to thrive as local and global citizens.

Program Learning Outcomes

At the end of the program, students will be able to:

• Build personal and professional relationships among peers, faculty, and staff.
• Identify a clear career pathway that aligns with their personal and professional goals.
• Successfully locate and search tools and resources for careers in healthcare
• Establish lifelong learning practices in career exploration and personal development.
• Cultivate culturally responsive experiences fostering strong community relationships.

The Toro Health Pathways (THP) program focuses on ensuring the success of underrepresented students who wish to pursue careers in health professions. THP will provide valuable support, guidance, and mentorship to students to help them navigate their college path and pursue careers in health. The goal of the Toro Health Pathways is to inspire and prepare students for careers in health professions to develop a more culturally and linguistically competent healthcare workforce.

Support includes:

• Paid summer internships for undergraduate students
• Paid fellowship opportunities for post-undergraduate students
• Peer mentoring and health professions workshops
• Career and major exploration and advising

Toro Health Pathways is funded by the Department of Health Care Access and Information.

For more information about the THP, contact Dr. Ana Maria Barrera, Program Director, healthpathways@csudh.edu