MedSTEM Explorers

MedSTEM Explorers is a six-week paid summer pre-internship program at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, for high school students. Explorers learn about STEM and health care careers, build academic and workplace skills, and research real-world health issues in their Chicago communities. They take part in career workshops and discussions with professionals, college readiness training, health care skills courses and first aid and CPR certification, along with career panels and community service. The 2026 program ran June 22 to July 31, meeting Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in person, and ended with a capstone project showcase. Students must attend the entire summer session. Successful Explorers may be considered for the MedSTEM Pathways internship program.

Applicants must be current high school freshmen or sophomores at the time of application (rising sophomores or juniors in the summer), with a minimum 2.5 weighted GPA and an 80% attendance record. They must live in Chicago or in Oak Park or River Forest (ZIP codes 60302, 60303 or 60305). The application includes a résumé, a letter of recommendation and an unofficial transcript, and selected applicants are invited to interview. Accepted students complete an After School Matters application for payment, a secondary application, proof of COVID vaccination and a state ID or passport.