Each summer, a select group of UT Austin College of Pharmacy students participates in a program that changes the way they see patients and practice pharmacy.
The Summer Institute for Medical Students (SIMS) at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is a nationally recognized immersion program offering future health professionals a rare, in-depth view into the realities of substance use and recovery. Over five days, participants engage in classroom instruction, clinical observation and direct interaction with patients in recovery—gaining critical insight into the biological, psychological, social and spiritual dimensions of substance use disorders.
Originally developed for medical students, SIMS now invites participation from a small number of Pharm.D. programs across the country. The College of Pharmacy is proud to be one of them. Through dedicated funding, 4-6 students are able to attend each summer, preparing to become compassionate and effective providers in one of the most urgent areas of public health.
"The Summer Institute for Medical Students (SIMS) program was one of the most eye-opening and fulfilling experiences I’ve had in my pharmacy education so far. While I applied with a strong interest in psychiatric pharmacy, the program introduced me to the field of addiction medicine. Attending patient lectures, sitting in on group therapy sessions, and engaging directly with patients in recovery was incredibly motivating. The SIMS program not only solidified my commitment to pursuing psychiatric pharmacy—it also showed me that clinical knowledge alone isn’t enough. Compassion and empathy are what truly make a difference in patient care."
— Isabel Mateo, Pharm.D. Candidate 2028
"The SIMS program at the Hazelden Betty Ford Center was a powerful, immersive experience unlike anything else. It gave me a deeper understanding of substance use disorder, allowing me not only to build relationships with patients, but also to learn how they want to be communicated with as a future healthcare provider. As I continue my journey through pharmacy school, this program has equipped me with the skills and confidence to be a compassionate and effective pharmacist for my future patients. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience SIMS and will continue to advocate for substance use disorder care."
— Emily Vu, Pharm.D. Candidate 2028
"The SIMS experience truly opened my eyes and broke down the stigma I held toward people living with substance use disorders. Walking through their challenges from their perspective made me realize how easy it is to judge without understanding—and how essential compassion really is. It gave me a new level of empathy and reminded me that everyone’s story is more complex than what we see on the surface. Overall, the experience shifted my mindset in a meaningful way that I’ll carry with me throughout both my personal and professional life."
— Sierra Aguilar, Pharm.D. Candidate 2027
UT Austin Student Participation
- Summer 2025 – 5 participants
- Summer 2024 – 4 participants
- Summer 2023 – 6 participants
Help Send a Student to SIMS
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