Summer healthcare experience
in Oncology

SHE in Oncology 

The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, invites high school students from the Austin and Mower County communities to participate in the Summer Health Experience (SHE) in Oncology. This two-week, online program is ideal for high school students with an interest in cancer research in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, and patient support. 

Students will learn directly from The Hormel Institute Professor Leena Hilakivi-Clarke, PhD – a leading cancer researcher focused on the role diets play in affecting breast cancer risk and mortality – as well as through leading cancer experts from the Masonic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Medical College of Wisconsin, and the University of Iowa.  

A stipend of $500 will be given upon successful completion of the entire program. 

Funded by the American Cancer Society. 

 

 

SHE logo
Masonic Cancer Center
American Cancer Society Logo

Program Description

The SHE in Oncology program at The Hormel Institute is designed to cultivate an interest in the intricate realm of cancer and help high school students prepare for pursuing a career in this field. Over the course of two weeks, students will understand the various causes of cancer, how it can be prevented, and the diagnosis and treatment of a disease that is the leading cause of death around the world. Cancer is about more than the disease itself, and that’s why the SHE in Oncology program also focuses attention on patient care and support from initial diagnosis to treatment to remission and beyond. 

In addition to presentations by biomedical professionals and home-based research activities, the program includes breakout-style career panels where students can learn what it takes to begin a career in cancer; case studies that help bring cancer research to life; and a presentation on student discoveries. 

Virtual programming is delivered in part through the renowned eClose Institute with oversight by research professionals. 

Successful completion of this program will result in a $500 stipend but, more than that, participants will walk-away with scientific knowledge and experience that exceeds their peers, have the beginnings of a professional network made up of peers and mentors, and be able to focus their future education and career goals. 

Participating Institutions

As part of a cohort, SHE students enrolled through The Hormel Institute and Masonic Cancer Center will complete all program activities in collaboration with peers enrolled through:

Expand all

Eligibility

  • Full-time high school students who have completed 10th, 11th, and 12th grade at time of application (preference to students in rural Southeast Minnesota communities) 
  • A strong interest in scientific research, biomedicine, and cancer
  • Ability to commit to the full two-week program
  • Must have computer and internet access

Program Curriculum and Dates

DATES
  • Applications are due by May 30, 2025
  • July 21, 2025- August 1, 2025 (students must participate in the entire two-week program. Weekdays only, 4 hours/day)
Curriculum
Week 1 
Week 2
  • Base and translational research
  • In-depth presentations from cancer professionals about what cancer is; how it is detected and treated; cancer awareness focused on rural communities; and ways to prevent cancer.
  • Career breakout sessions where students learn about the various cancer-related jobs, including nursing, radiology, research, epidemiology, community outreach, and more.
  • Case studies and skill development where students will dive into different types of cancer and then present their findings to their peers.

  • Friday, August 1, online or optional in-person celebration luncheon and tour of The Hormel Institute
     

Contact

For more information on the program Contact The Community Outreach and Education team at [email protected].

Application Process

Space is limited to 20 students, so we strongly encourage you to submit your application as soon as you can. 

To apply, complete this SHE in Oncology form, which requires a paragraph explaining why you’re interested in participating in this program, what you hope to learn, and how you will use this information in the future. 

The application window for 2025 has closed.