The latest statistics from the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis project massive personnel shortages by 2038 in medicine and nursing as well as allied health fields, such as dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, optometry and psychology. In order to meet this demand and facilitate entry to these and other health professions, STRETCHED was launched at The University of Tulsa in 2022. This program introduces area high school students – many of whom are from underrepresented groups – to the array of health careers they might consider and the dynamics of applying to and succeeding at college.
“STRETCHED stands for STudents Reaching Excellence Through Collaboration with Higher EDucation,” explained its founder and director, Associate Professor of Athletic Training and Exercise & Sports Science Roger Kollock. “By providing participants with mentoring, education and motivation, we aspire to play a pivotal role in developing and preparing the next generation of healthcare practitioners.”
Sofia’s story
Now, finished with her first year in the exercise and sports science program at Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences, Sofia Yeromenko is one of the people whose journey to UTulsa was profoundly shaped by participating in STRETCHED. “My first experience with the program was in 2023, a couple of months before starting grade 12 at Jenks High School,” said Yeromenko, who was born in Ukraine and immigrated to the United States with her mother and brother when she was 7. “The STRETCHED Summer Academy was three amazing days of hands-on learning, hospital tours, informative speakers and sports medicine activities. It also enabled me to connect with students from many high schools who shared my interest in health.”
For Yeromenko, the Summer Academy’s highlights were exploring Oxley’s Biomechanics Research Laboratory, where she was able to interact with new technology, such as force plates (instruments that measure the force produced during movement and exercise). Hearing from many speakers was also important: “Listening to them talk about their passion and the challenges they overcame made me even more excited and empowered to pursue medicine, and it gave me confidence about the next steps on my own path.” Another highlight was connecting with STRETCHED volunteers who, “not only guided us through the activities but also made the program feel supportive and welcoming.”
Yeromenko regards her Summer Academy experience as having been pivotal in her decision to pursue a pre-med track. “During those three days, I discovered how much I loved exploring the human body and applying science to help others. STRETCHED also made me believe I could pursue medicine and showed me how mentorship and community can shape not just what you know, but who you can become,” she said. After being admitted to UTulsa, Yeromenko was accepted into the highly selective Early Careers in Medicine program, which includes provisional acceptance to the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.
Thriving in the classroom and beyond
Deeply aware of the impact STRETCHED had on her own plans, Yeromenko signed on as a program volunteer. She led breakout sessions in the biomechanics lab and shared her experiences with applying to college and study strategies. “Helping guide other students while seeing the program from a fresh perspective was incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Yeromenko’s first term at UTulsa was full of learning, growth and connection. “I have loved diving into courses like biology, chemistry and kinesiology,” she commented.
This drive and commitment have not gone unnoticed. Mary Beth Sawyer, a visiting associate professor of kinesiology and rehabilitative sciences, was Yeromenko’s instructor for Introduction to Kinesiology. “As with any introductory course, it is easy for students to just show up,” Sawyer said. “But I think Sofia is not capable of merely showing up to anything.”
As a commuter student, Yeromenko has made an extra effort to get involved with campus activities and groups. These include serving as marketing intern for the Exercise & Sports Science Club, helping to launch a peer mentorship initiative for pre-health students, contributing to the Oxley College Dean’s Advisory Council and taking part in Leadership TU, a program that empowers students to become effective leaders and team members.
Yeromenko has also “fallen in love” with the university’s dynamic athletics scene. “It’s really exciting to feel the energy of the crowd,” she remarked. “Attending games in person, including cheering on our basketball teams over winter break, have made me see sports in a whole new way!” But many of her most treasured moments thus far have been simpler and quieter, including waiting in line with her friends for the annual Lights On event in early December or watching sunsets from the McFarlin Library steps. “All these experiences have made me immensely grateful to be at UTulsa and remind me how much I’ve grown,” she said.
Sofia’s advice for others considering STRETCHED
- Fully embrace every part of this unique experience.
- Ask lots of questions, connect with peers and mentors and reflect on what you’re learning.
- Be open to new ideas and opportunities, even ones outside your comfort zone.
- Enjoy the vibrant community and the friendships that will develop.
Embark on your personalized path to success
Taking part in STRETCHED is a great way to discover all the energizing, career-focused pathways available at Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your goals!
Learn more about STRETCHED by following us on Instagram (@918STRETCHED) and by tuning in to the STRETCHED Unscripted podcast, where you’ll hear inspiring stories, gain behind-the-scenes insights and enjoy conversations about the next generation of health care.