Kaiser Permanente Mentorship Program Inspires Antelope Valley Middle Schoolers Toward Careers in Medicine

LANCASTER – Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley recently celebrated the graduation of 47 students from its Hippocrates Circle Program, a mentorship initiative designed to provide students from diverse backgrounds with guidance and inspiration to pursue careers in medicine.

Students from Shadow Hills Magnet Academy in Palmdale took part in an extensive program featuring interactive medical demonstrations, physician-led mentoring sessions and guided tours of health care facilities. The initiative is designed to foster early interest in medicine among students and promote a more diverse future physician workforce.

“These students are the foundation of tomorrow’s health care,” said Dr. Khodam Rostomian, area medical director at Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley. “By exposing them to a range of medical fields and offering mentorship, we’re cultivating a diverse group of future professionals who will truly understand and serve the needs of our community.”

“The Hippocrates Circle Program reflects Kaiser Permanente’s dedication to inspiring the next generation of health care leaders,” said Alison Segal, chief administrative officer at Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley. “By offering students hands-on experiences and insight into medical careers, we’re showing them that a future in health care is within reach. These talented students truly represent the future of medicine in our community.”

During the program, students participated in activities such as:

• Hands-on clinical skills workshops.

• Medical simulation experiences.

• Mentoring sessions with physicians.

• Tours of medical facilities.

• Interactive presentations on various medical specialties.

Established in 2000, the Hippocrates Circle Program has guided thousands of students from diverse backgrounds toward careers in medicine. Many program graduates have gone on to pursue medical education and returned to serve in their local communities.

Photo Caption: Shadow Hills Magnet Academy students with Kaiser Permanente leaders at Hippocrates Circle graduation.