Applications are now open for the Ochsner STAR (Science, Technology, Academic, Research) Summer Scholars Program, Ochsner Health’s legacy high school program created to increase student access to science and academic research in Louisiana. This year, the competitive Ochsner STAR program will celebrate its 16th annual summer session for qualifying high school juniors. The deadline to apply is March 10, 2022.
STAR provides students, particularly those with limited means or access to STEM education, a cost-free opportunity to explore the world of healthcare. The rigorous hands-on summer program focuses on science, technology, academics, and research. During a four-week summer course, STAR aims to engage and inspire students to pursue careers in science and medicine by exposing students to the most innovative aspects of modern healthcare and by challenging them to find their best personal fit in the healthcare workforce.
“At Ochsner Health, we know that equitable access to high-quality education and workforce training should be one of our greatest priorities – that is why we remain fully committed to our legacy STAR program,” said Allison Sharai, assistant vice president of Community Affairs and School Partnerships, Ochsner Health. “We are thrilled to be able to inspire and guide the next generation of future clinical professionals, researchers, and leaders in healthcare.”
STAR’s curriculum offers hands-on learning and classroom seminars through hospital and clinic rotations. On average, STAR students explore over 60 departments and specialties, interact with more than 75 clinical and nonclinical employees, and receive over 160 hours of free healthcare and science education. Scholars participate in cutting-edge scientific experiments under the guidance of Ochsner scientists in laboratories and learn how to properly conduct and professionally present research.
To better prepare them for the workforce, students will learn leadership development and other important professional development skills from career development experts. These include presentation skills, resume writing and interview skills, teambuilding, and professionalism in the workplace. STAR’s comprehensive program also includes CPR certification for each participating student.
The program is competitive. In 2021,19 rising high school seniors were selected from a pool of more than 200 applicants.
The program will be held from June 6 – July 1, 2022 (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Applicants must be at least 16 years old by June 6, 2022. They must be a current high school junior (11th grade). Louisiana residents will be given priority selection for the STAR Program. There is no minimum grade point average (GPA) or ACT/SAT score requirement.
STAR applications should be completed online at www.ochsner.org/star/apply and are due by 11:59 p.m., Thursday, March 10, 2022.
Applicants must complete and provide the STAR student application; a copy of school transcripts; and two letters of recommendation.
For more information on the Ochsner STAR Program, visit www.ochsner.org/star.