Teen summer program
Your Future in Healthcare Starts Here
Are you ready to step into scrubs, shadow healthcare professionals, and lead projects that make a real difference?
Applications for TELP 2026 open: January 2026
The Teen Experience and Leadership Program (TELP) isn’t just another summer program. It’s your inside look at the world of healthcare. For 8 weeks, you’ll explore careers, build leadership skills, and discover what you’re capable of. This is your chance to learn, lead, and leave your mark.
What is TELP?
TELP is an 8-week, hands-on program for students ages 14–19 (must have completed 9th grade) who want to explore careers in healthcare.
Through clinical and non-clinical rotations, interactive learning labs, workshops, and mentorship, TELP participants gain:
- Real-world experience in healthcare settings
- Leadership skills you can use for life
- Opportunities to discover new career paths
- Connections with mentors and peers who share your interests
Whether you dream of being a physician, nurse, researcher, administrator, or public health advocate, TELP helps you discover your strengths and take your first steps as a healthcare leader.
Who Can Apply?
TELP is for motivated and curious teens who:
- Are 14–19 and have completed at least 9th grade
- Want to explore different healthcare careers
- Are excited to connect with professionals and peers
- Are open to mentorship, research, and hands-on projects
- Can commit to at least one 4-hour shift per week
How to Apply
To apply, you must:
- Complete the online application and upload required documents (including a headshot).
- Participate in an interview.
- Complete the YouScience career assessment (used to match you with rotations that fit your interests).
- Provide immunization records and a Quantiferon TB test if accepted. (Other TB tests cannot be substituted.)
Application timeline
- Applications for TELP 2026 open: January 2026
- Check back here for details, and get ready to start your journey!
What to Expect as a TELP Leader
As a TELP Leader, you will:
- Join clinical and non-clinical rotations tailored to your skills and interests
- Learn from guest speakers across healthcare fields
- Take part in virtual learning labs
- Build your network with healthcare and community leaders
- (Optional) Join a health outcomes research project and identify health challenges in your community, design solutions, and present your work at the Health Outcomes Research Showcase
Explore TELP in Action
- Program Videos
- Closing Ceremony Booklet
- Research Booklet
Frequently Asked Questions
A TELP Leader is more than a student volunteer. You are a changemaker in training. You’ll practice leadership, learn to collaborate with healthcare professionals, and develop the confidence to shape the future of healthcare.
All medical documentation must be submitted before orientation. Missing or incomplete records may delay or disqualify your application.
TELP Leaders receive a program t-shirt that must be worn during shifts. You may wear khakis, jeans, or scrub bottoms (no rips, stains, or tears). Closed-toe shoes are required for safety. Please do not wear Crocs or open-back shoes.
You must complete the assessment to participate. Incomplete assessments disqualify applicants.
For questions about rotations or badging, email [email protected].
No, TELP is an unpaid educational program. However, you’ll receive documentation of your service hours, which may support future college, scholarship, or job applications.