Project Summary GT:SHDS was initially launched as a 10-week summer program for undergraduate students from across the United States interested in HIV and/or HCV health disparities and their intersection with substance use (addiction and overdose), violence, mental health, and the social determinants of health. With CDEIPI FY21-23 funds, the program expanded to include a graduate student training track. The program offers mentorship and training in HIV/HCV education, testing, and counseling; health disparities, cultural competence, and harm reduction. The participants also engage in community outreach with community partner, Sisters Together and Reaching, Inc. The program has a special focus on students that are underrepresented in nursing, public health, medicine, and science with an emphasis on first generation college students and individuals from minoritized/disadvantaged backgrounds. The purpose of this proposal is to sustain/grow GT:SHDS, therefore, our specific aims are: Aim 1. To increase the volume in our pathway to assist individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds in gaining exposure to mentorship and research in health careers/science professions with a focus on HIV and HCV health disparities. Aim 2. To enhance cultural competence and humility by promoting respect for the patient, their values/beliefs, and lived experiences. Aim 3. To promote comprehensive care of individuals impacted by HIV and HCV infections with a recognition of the importance of the intersection with substance use (addiction and overdose), violence, mental health, and the social determinants of health. Aim: 4.To support the professional identify formation (PIF) of developing healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds.