EXCEL is a summer enrichment program designed to provide disadvantaged/underserved high school students from grades 9-12 with the opportunity to participate in challenging math, science, computer, and language arts coursework. These students are also given the opportunity to explore health career opportunities through mentoring programs and exposure to healthcare professionals. Counselors from the target schools recruit students for the EXCEL program, beginning in September of each year. Alcorn State University serves as the site for our EXCEL program.  The university is the oldest, predominantly African-American land-grant college in the United States. Alcorn State University is situated 90 miles south of Jackson and is known for its academic excellence.