The Pathway Initiative: Providing Access and Opportunity
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Summer Workforce Development Internship

Our Summer Workforce Development Internship is the perfect opportunity for high school and college students to gain first-hand experience in healthcare, research, and science, setting them up for success in their future careers. We offer placements in clinical, academic, and biotech settings, providing valuable exposure for promising and dedicated students. Students also gain invaluable communication and interpersonal skills, while broadening their networks, among professionals and their fellow students.

Clinical Internships

Our clinical placements are designed for students who are interested in careers in medicine, nursing, public health, or other healthcare professions, who want a better understanding of how the healthcare system functions day to day. From observing medical procedures to learning about patient care and hospital administration, this program equips students with a broad understanding of the medical field. Past internship placements have included Boston Medical Center Department of Pathology, Mass General Brigham, and more.

Academic Internships

Academic internship placements give students the opportunity to work within research departments or university-affiliated programs focused on academic medicine and the science behind patient care. These placements are great for students curious about clinical research, medical education, or pursuing an MD/PhD path.

Past internship placements have included the Harvard Medical School Department of Neuroscience, UMass Boston Department of Photomedicine, and more.

Biotech Internships

Learn the ins and outs of the biotech field. Students get hands-on experience as research assistants in biotech or diagnostic labs, including exposure to molecular biology, experimental techniques, and cutting-edge biomedical research. This internship is perfect for future lab techs, scientists, or anyone interested in the intersection of biology and technology. Past internship placements have included Amgen and Sarepta Therapeutics.

Apply By May 18, 2025

Who This Program is For

Ideal candidates are dedicated to learning about healthcare, life sciences, and biotech and are excited to engage with professionals in a clinical, academic, or laboratory setting. They demonstrate persistence, leadership, and a desire to serve as role models and mentors for other students in underserved communities. Students must also demonstrate strong communication skills, curiosity, and a desire to explore their chosen fields.

What This Program Offers

This program provides more than just observation; it’s a dynamic learning experience that will broaden your understanding of the healthcare system.

  • Shadowing Healthcare Professionals: Students will shadow doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals during clinical hours, observing medical procedures, patient care, and daily routines.
  • Learning About Medical Ethics: Understand the ethical standards and dilemmas faced by medical professionals, and how they navigate these challenges in real-time.
  • Developing Soft Skills: Gain invaluable communication and interpersonal skills as you observe healthcare professionals interacting with patients and their families.
  • Networking Opportunities: Engage with physicians, nurses, and medical staff, and expand your professional network for future career opportunities in healthcare.
  • Exposure to Various Medical Fields: Experience a range of medical specialties, from emergency medicine to pediatric care, allowing you to explore different paths in the healthcare field.

Observing the World of Medicine

Allowing students to observe real-life medical settings and gain exposure to healthcare professionals, clinical practices, and medical procedures.

Preparing for Medical Careers

Providing students with a firsthand look at the clinical field and the necessary skills to pursue medical school or other health-related careers.

Developing Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Helping students refine their communication abilities and understanding of how healthcare professionals interact with patients, families, and colleagues.

Learning Healthcare Ethics and Responsibilities

Introducing students to the ethical issues and responsibilities faced by medical professionals in real-world clinical settings.

Program Schedule

Recognizing the value of this experience, we offer a paid internship to support students’ commitment to the program.

High School Students

(ages 14-18)
  • Summer Program: June 15 - August 28
  • Schedule: Up to 25 hours per week (max 175 hours)
  • Student Stipend: $15 per hour

College Students & Recent Graduates

(ages 19-24)
  • Summer Program: June 15 - August 28
  • Schedule: Up to 30 hours per week (max 240 hours)
  • Student Stipend: $20 per hour

Program Requirements

To ensure the program aligns with the needs of committed students, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirements:
  • High School Program: Ages 14-18, must be enrolled in high school, post-secondary education, or a GED/HiSET/Alternative Education program
  • Boston residents
  • Minimum GPA of 3.5
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Priority is given to low-income and underrepresented students but all are welcome to apply
  • Applicants must demonstrate significant financial need and must be eligible for programs such as the Pell Grant or Work-Study
  • Students are required to participate in career readiness and soft skills workshops with YouthWorks on Fridays
  • Students are required to be vaccinated against COVID and the flu; additional vaccines, such as TB, may apply, depending on the work site
  • Applicants must commit to the full program duration and professionalism in clinical environments
Apply Here

Applications Are Now Closed

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
  • Onboarding period: May 25 - June 12, 2026
  • Mandatory Orientation: June 18 and 19, 2026
  • Internships Start: June 29, 2026
Apply Now