Organization: Columbia University Department of Psychiatry
Program Type: Unpaid Clinical Enrichment Program
Program Dates: January 25 – May 6, 2027
Time Commitment: 8–10 hours per week
Application Deadline: Friday, December 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST
Location: New York City, NY
About the Program
The Dr. June Jackson Christmas College Enrichment Program, offered by Columbia University’s Department of Psychiatry, provides college students who identify as historically underrepresented in medicine with direct exposure to psychiatric patient care.
With an emphasis on community psychiatry, the program introduces participants to clinical settings and mental health services through rotations at a community outpatient clinic and the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP). Students will also visit community mental health sites and attend educational sessions covering topics relevant to the MCAT.
What You’ll Learn
Participants will shadow and learn from a multidisciplinary team of medical students, residents, attending physicians, social workers, psychologists, and case managers.
Learning opportunities include:
- Exposure to mental health disorders and available treatment options
- Observing psychiatric patient care in clinical settings
- Learning about patient interviews and clinical assessments
- Visiting community mental health sites
- Attending educational sessions focused on MCAT-relevant topics
- Gaining insight into community psychiatry and mental health services
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a college or university in New York City
- Be a current college junior or senior with pre-medical interests
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.2 and be in good academic standing
Special consideration is given to applicants who:
- Are the first in their family to attend college
- Grew up in a single-parent household
- Have overcome socioeconomic or other significant challenges
- Have lived or volunteered in a diverse environment
Required Application Materials
Applicants must submit the following materials:
- Official college transcript
- Updated CV or résumé
- Statement of interest addressing:
- Your interest in mental health and the program
- Relevant skills and experiences
- Your career goals
- How participating in the program would support your goals
- Letter of good standing from an academic dean
Optional materials:
- Spring 2027 class schedule
- Up to two letters of reference
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official program application portal.
Apply for the Dr. June Jackson Christmas College Enrichment Program
Applications opened on September 28, 2026, and close at 11:59 PM EST on Friday, December 4, 2026. Applicants must submit all required materials to be considered.
Questions?
For questions about the program or application process, contact:
Dr. Marissa Pharel-Melendez, MD, MS
Email: marissa.pharelmelendez@nyspi.columbia.edu
Phone: (212) 305-2862
