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Longwood University and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) have developed a new partnership, dubbed an Early Assurance Program, to provide pathways for Longwood students who aspire to become a physician, physician’s assistant, surgical assistant or biomedical researcher.

Starting in the fall of 2022, Longwood freshmen will be able to take advantage of this new opportunity. As soon as they indicate interest in the program, they will benefit from focused mentoring by both Longwood and EVMS advisors. Then, in their junior year, they will have the opportunity to apply to the EVMS programs.

“There’s a lot to be excited about in this new partnership, but a key advantage is that Longwood students in any major can participate and benefit from a four-year arc of student support,” said Dr. Bjoern Ludwar, director of pre-professional health programs in Longwood’s Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences.

Dr. Mark Fink, chair of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, noted the significance of juniors being able to receive a decision about their application to EVMS prior to their senior year, giving them a head start in preparing for their next step.

“Imagine going into your senior year knowing that your hard work has prepared you to transition to an EVMS program after graduation,” Fink said. “That’s huge.”

The Longwood-EVMS partnership will support students’ professional preparation, ensure a smooth transition into these popular healthcare careers, and serve as another example of Longwood’s commitment to excellence in education.

“We are more than thrilled to be able to partner with EVMS and provide Longwood students with this enriching opportunity,” said Dr. Roger Byrne, dean of the Cook-Cole College of Arts and Sciences. “This program will truly help us to guide students into rewarding fields, serve key needs in the commonwealth, and also further develop our students into the citizen leaders that Longwood is known for.” 

For more information, contact Dr. Bjoern Ch. Ludwar via email at ludwarbc@longwood.edu.