The Serv Program at Texas Health Dallas offers a unique and invaluable opportunity for students aspiring to a healthcare career. This program provides hands-on experience and physician shadowing, designed to immerse you in a real clinical setting and solidify your path in the medical field.
What is the SERV Program?
The Student Emergency Room Volunteer (SERV) Program is a two-semester commitment at Texas Health Dallas. During the first semester, accepted students dedicate two 4-hour volunteer shifts each week, one in the Emergency Department and another in a different hospital department. This initial semester requires a 100-hour commitment, emphasizing service, punctuality, and professionalism – essential qualities in healthcare. Successful completion of this phase is your gateway to the program’s second, highly sought-after component.
The second semester offers SERV students the exclusive privilege of shadowing physicians across more than 15 specialties at Texas Health Dallas. This shadowing experience provides unparalleled insight into various medical fields, demanding punctuality, professionalism, and adaptability to the physicians’ dynamic schedules.
Program Benefits at a Glance:
- Hands-on Clinical Experience: Direct involvement in a hospital environment.
- Physician Shadowing Opportunities: Explore over 15 medical specialties.
- Complimentary Refreshments: Free drinks provided.
- Free Parking: Parking expenses covered.
- Annual Flu Shots: Free annual flu vaccination.
Who Can Apply for the SERV Program?
To be considered for the SERV Program, applicants must meet specific, non-negotiable criteria:
Mandatory Requirements for Applicants:
- Healthcare Career Aspirations: Applicants must intend to pursue a career in the healthcare industry.
- Academic Standing: Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Social Security Number: Possession of a valid Social Security number is required.
- Educational Attainment: High school diploma or GED completion by the program orientation date.
- Mandatory Orientation Attendance: Attendance at the designated SERV rotation orientation is compulsory.
- Time Commitment: Ability to commit to 13 continuous weeks of volunteering, starting immediately after orientation.
- Reference Forms: Submission of two completed reference forms during the round two interview.
- Non-Employee Status: Applicants must not be current employees of Texas Health Dallas.
Enhance Your SERV Program Application
While meeting the mandatory criteria is essential, certain factors can significantly strengthen your application. Availability, especially during the first semester, is highly valued, as schedule flexibility allows for easier integration into the SERV schedule.
Factors for a Competitive Application:
- Morning Availability (Second Semester): Open mornings during the shadowing semester maximize shadowing opportunities, as most shifts occur in the morning.
- Consistent Schedule & Prioritization: A stable schedule and prioritizing SERV commitments demonstrate dedication.
- Positive Attitude & Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrated people skills and experience interacting with diverse individuals, including patients and customers, are highly regarded.
- Clinical Experience (Advantageous, Not Required): Prior experience in a clinical setting, while not mandatory, showcases commitment to healthcare and professional conduct.
If the current time commitment for the SERV Program is challenging, future application is encouraged when your schedule permits.
Application Rotations and Important Updates
Application Windows:
- Fall 2025 Rotation (June – December):
- Opens March 31
- Closes May 1
- Spring 2026 Rotation (January – August):
- Opens August 20
- Closes September 30
Important SERV Program Update:
The SERV program is currently undergoing infrastructural rebuilding, including the recruitment of SERV Executive Leaders and Board Members. This dedicated team is working to revitalize the program, aiming for a full reopening in 2024. Currently, pre-healthcare college freshmen and sophomores with a valid Social Security number and a two-year service commitment are invited to apply for the SERV Board.
For Reference Forms required for your application, please download them here. Completed forms should be emailed to [email protected].
The SERV Program represents a significant step for aspiring healthcare professionals, offering real-world experience and invaluable mentorship at Texas Health Dallas.
