The WALK IT FORWARD SCHOLARS Program

The Walk It Forward Scholars Program is supported by the Carole Kerr DiGioia and Anthony M. DiGioia, Jr. Memorial Fund. The Program gives you the opportunity to travel with Operation Walk Pittsburgh during its October mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala, all at no cost.

Candidates can be in their early years of training in health care-related careers, as well as undergraduate students interested in pursuing related careers. The program is also open to residents and fellows in training.

Experience the joy of medicine in this unique setting with a team of passionate clinicians who are dedicated to restoring the gift of mobility to those who need it most.

The experience will give Scholars one-on-one training in their prospective field(s) of study and provide a unique perspective on healthcare in a resource-scarce environment during the 7-day mission week.

During the week, Scholars will have the opportunity to:

• Be assigned to and shadow experienced clinicians in their fields of training or interest.

• Observe or scrub in on joint replacement surgeries.

• Participate in training sessions on IV insertion, anesthesia basics, scrubbing in and glove fitting, pre-op and post-op care, and more.

• Benefit from individual meetings, career advice sessions, and networking with surgeons and other physicians.

• Deliver hands-on patient care in both pre-op and post-op settings.

• Participate in the post-clinic grand rounds session where patients are selected for surgery.

Scholars will leave the mission week with valuable skills that allow them to navigate real-world challenges related to healthcare delivery, putting them ahead of their peers and preparing them for successful health care careers.

To be chosen, recipients will have demonstrated excellence in their growing professional and educational backgrounds and a commitment to Operation Walk Pittsburgh’s mission and values. Note that the application process is competitive and not all who apply will be accepted.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Any undergraduate student interested in health care careers, as well as students currently enrolled in a healthcare training program — including but not limited to medical students, nursing students, residents and fellows in training, physical therapy student, and others — are all welcome to apply.

As a Walk It Forward Scholarship recipient, all costs of the trip will be fully covered including flights, in-country transportation, hotel, and most meals.

2025 AMD3 WALK IT FORWARD SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS