Local Outreach

Service isn’t just something SMU students do on the side; it’s a calling. Opportunities to help others are embedded into your coursework throughout your entire program of study.  

Compassionate, Caring Campus

You are likely drawn to the health care field out of a sincere desire to help others. At SMU, you'll find we are just as committed to cultivating your innate sense of service as you are. 

Whether it’s a one-time event or an on-going program, our students, faculty, and staff devote thousands of hours each year to health and educational services for people in need in our surrounding communities. No matter what your area of study, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to serve—from occupational therapy students working in campus clinics to nursing students volunteering at homeless shelters. 

In addition to providing practical learning experiences, community engagement's hands-on, boots-on-the-ground nature reinforces our mission of educating students like you to become skilled and compassionate health professionals who positively transform the experience of care. 

Around Oakland

SMU has relationships with many local agencies and facilities, including churches, shelters, schools, and clinics. Past programs geared toward local residents have included:

  • Youth in Medicine—Five-week health care career exploration program for underserved, rising ninth graders 
  • FACES for the Future—Health care internships, academic assistance, and wellness training to underserved high school students
  • Community Learning Forum—A series of public health education seminars held at Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland 

We know you’ll find experiences like these to be some of the most rewarding parts of your SMU education. 
 

Nurse with baby and mother

Global Outreach

Travel around the world for research and volunteer opportunities, including medical mission trips.

Go Global
Nurse with family

Ethnic Health Institute

An outreach and awareness program focused on improving the health and wellness of people in underserved communities.

Join Us

From Campus to Community

A look at how SMU students and faculty are making a difference in our local communities.