High School Programs

SHPEP-YES! WISH Summer Program

UNMC has spots for up to 12 high school students who are currently enrolled in 10th, 11th and 12th grade with Native American ancestry to join college students in a free weeklong summer enrichment program for individuals interested in health science professions. The Weeklong Institute for Students in High School is a collaboration between UNMC's Summer Health Professions Education Program and Youth Enjoy Science.

The goal of the combined program is to strengthen the career development of Native American students underrepresented in the health professions and improve their access to information and resources that can prepare them for college success in a health-science field with a focus on cancer-related careers.

This program offers students a variety of academic and career experiences:

• Introduction to opportunities in health professions with visits to colleges of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, public health and allied health profession
• Discussion on cancer research areas in the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, and learn about a variety of opportunities in cancer research professions
• Learn about research into cancer causes and cures, and about professions in cancer research
• Writing, learning, and study skills development
• Clinical exposure through small-group simulation experiences and seminars
• Exposure to a larger view of health care, health systems and the social determinants of health
• An introduction to interprofessional education that addresses effective collaboration across health professions

Eligibility Requirements

• Participant selection for this program follows the guidelines set by the NIH grant to ensure we meet NIH specific requirements.
• Is a high school sophomore, junior or senior at the time of application
• Has a GPA that is equal to or exceeds the 50th percentile of all applications received
• Identifies as American Indian/Alaska Native
• Comes from an economically or educationally disadvantaged background; and/or
• Has demonstrated an interest in issues affecting underserved populations
• Submits a compelling personal statement, diversity essay and a strong letter of recommendation

Program Details

The 2023 program took place at the UNMC campus from July 9-15. Students were provided free overnight lodging at Scott Residence Hall at the University of Nebraska Omaha. All meals and transportation during the program were provided.

Day-Long Science Programs

The YES! Program has day-long science programs for partner schools such as Cancer Biology & You. These days give high school students hands on experiences designing cancer research experiments and learning about cancer causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention as well as opportunities to learn about a variety of career options within cancer research and treatment. These days are great opportunities for high school students to interact with college students.

Participant selection for this program follows the guidelines set by the NIH grant to ensure we meet NIH specific requirements.