From the day the Marines came to Quantico in 1917, this base has led the way in innovation, intelligence, and patriotism by training some of the most dedicated men and women in the nation. Called the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps,” Quantico has played a large role in developing concepts, training, and equipment that will define the future of warfare. It was here that many of the techniques that have earned the Marine Corps its reputation for expeditionary warfare were developed, making Quantico very much at the center of America’s defense strategy.
The legacy of Quantico is one of keen vision and the intense dedication of service members, civilians, and family members who have served here. Their very best commitment to the Corps ensures that the world’s premier fighting force shall always be a Marine Corps, adapting to and evolving with new challenges.
In exchange for this same level of dedication and service, the Health Professions Scholarship Program, or HPSP, offers the special opportunity of studying with the Air Force. With more than 70% of medical school graduates carrying an enormous debt load, the HPSP offers a full-tuition scholarship with a generous monthly stipend in exchange for future service as an Air Force physician. This program thus not only lightens the load of pockets due to heavy expenditures on medical education but also opens an opportunity to serve the nation desirably.
The HPSP also pays the full amount of tuition and required fees accredited in any of the United States medical schools, in addition to books and most other education-related expenses. Students also share an annual salary of about $35,000, which includes a monthly stipend during the 10½ months $2,870 with Second Lieutenant military and travel pay during their active duty tour for the remaining 45 days. Added to this is a $20,000 signing bonus for students awarded a four-year scholarship.
Applicants must be citizens of the United States, be physically qualified to be commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force, and be accepted or enrolled in an accredited medical school. Selection is based upon a minimum GPA undergraduate of 3.2 and an MCAT of 500 or greater; with higher selection scores, the selection is automatic without an accession board scheduled.
While participating in the HPSP, students will focus primarily on their studies but also become involved with the specialized military training programs identified below, including Officer Training School located at Maxwell Air Force Base and courses concerning Air Force Operational Medicine. Students participating in the HPSP are required to meet the Air Force Fitness Standards and serve as active duty officers for one year for each year that they participate in the scholarship.
It offers numerous residency and fellowship training opportunities in 84 different specialties, many of which are conducted not only at its locations but also at various Army, Navy, and civilian installations. Selection is through the Joint Graduate Medical Education Selection Board, which ensures that the majority receive their training in Air Force programs.
In addition to the financial advantages, Air Force medicine offers the ability to train a wide variety of patient populations, to deliver comprehensive care without concern for financial issues, and to work in an environment where colleagues are highly trained. The opportunity to travel and be involved in humanitarian missions, having the potential to graduate with zero debt while earning better pay than their civilian counterparts, is what makes the HPSP attractive to medical students.
Additional information on HPSP and career opportunities available to Air Force physicians is available at the official Air Force website or through a local Health Professions recruiter.
In summary, Quantico and the HPSP embody the service and sacrifice that defines America’s military. From the development of ground-breaking warfighting techniques to the provision of quality healthcare, these two institutions will, no doubt, continue to do their share in keeping America strong and secure for generations to come.