Pathway programs for middle schoolers
Sparking a passion for science and medicine from 5th through 8th grade.
Our programs
It’s never too early for students to explore a career in healthcare. Learn more about our programs for middle school students.
Future Healers is a fun, educational program that inspires students to develop an interest in the health sciences.
Program overview
- A grant program specific for all 5th – 8th grade students from Nativity Miguel School
- Students attend monthly sessions at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and discover the wonders of the human body and the science behind staying healthy, while learning about interesting health and medical careers
- Students also receive monthly in-school visits from staff to expand in-person learning themes
Application requirements and dates
Applications are coordinated directly through the school partner.
The program runs from September through June.
Contact
Maureen Murtha, executive director
mjmurtha1@geisinger.edu
Girls in Science provides a supportive and nurturing environment that empowers 7th grade girls to see themselves as future leaders in the healthcare industry. Girls are inspired to dream big, break barriers and pursue their passions in health and medicine.
Program overview
- A grant program for participants in Scranton School District partner schools
- Monthly in-person sessions at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine focusing on the human body through dissections, basic clinical skills, experiments and projects
- Monthly staff school visits to review academic progress, continue career planning and provide academic strategies
Application requirements and dates
Selection prioritization is given to students who are historically underrepresented in health and medicine.
Students apply through the school in May of each year. Application, essay and interview are required.
Contact
Lavinia Harrison, program lead
lharrison3@geisinger.edu
Boys in White Coats is a unique, inspiring program designed to empower 7th grade boys to develop the skills, interest and confidence needed to succeed in school and aspire for higher education and a future career as a physician.
Through in-person programming, mentoring and academic support, boys receive the guidance and support necessary for them to explore their passion for medicine and healthcare.
Program overview
- A grant program for participants in Scranton School District partner schools
- Monthly in-person sessions at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine focusing on the human body through dissections, basic clinical skills, experiments and projects
- Monthly staff school visits to review academic progress, continue career planning and provide academic strategies
Application requirements and dates
Selection prioritization is given to students who are historically underrepresented in health and medicine.
Students apply through the school in May of each year. Application, essay and interview are required.
Contact
Poul Chinga, program coordinator
pachinga@geisinger.edu
The Health Explorers Program focuses on community and public health and aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their health, future career paths and personal well-being.
Program overview
- Students attend monthly sessions at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and learn about important health issues that impact individuals, families and communities. They learn about prevention and awareness strategies for common health concerns such as infectious diseases, substance abuse and obesity.
- Staff conducts in-person visitations to schools monthly to provide follow-up activities in career awareness and academic strategies. Students also explore career paths within the health industry, and they focus on readiness skills to prepare for high school including study habits, time management and goal setting. Resiliency training is also provided to help students build emotional and coping skills.
- A grant program for participants in Scranton School District partner schools.
Application requirements and dates
Selection prioritization is given to students who are historically underrepresented in health and medicine.
Students apply through the school in May of each year. Application, essay and interview are required.
Contact
Anthony Soto Ramos, program coordinator
asotoramos2@geisinger.edu
Testimonials
Students in action
The annual 7th and 8th Grade Girls in Science Symposium gives local students hands-on experience with various STEM careers. Led by Geisinger medical students, the event inspires girls to dream big about their futures.
