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STEP-UP High School Program

StEP-UP High School Program

The High School STEP-UP Program provides students with advanced opportunities to explore careers in medicine, research, and the healthcare professions. Through interactive sessions, hands-on activities, and mentorship, students deepen their understanding of biomedical and clinical science while preparing for success in high school, college, and beyond.

Program Components & Benefits

High school students who participate in the program will:

  • Interact with Ϲ medical and graduate students, practicing physicians, and other healthcare professionals
  • Explore a broad range of career opportunities in medicine, research, and health-related fields
  • Participate in professional and personal development sessions to strengthen academic and career readiness
  • Engage in hands-on demonstrations and activities related to biomedical and clinical science, providing foundational experience for lab-based research
  • Receive guidance and advising from program staff to support high school achievement and college preparation
  • Attend six half-day sessions, one Saturday per month, during the academic year


Curriculum Focus

Personal Development
Sessions help students build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to lead healthy, independent, and engaged lives.

Professional Development
Students develop goal-setting, study skills, and attributes that support success in high school, college applications, and future careers.

Hands-On Learning
Activities provide exposure to lab materials and equipment while promoting problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Preparation for College
Students receive resources and guidance to help plan and prepare for the transition to college-level academics.

Parent/Guardian Engagement

  • Family involvement is an important part of student success. Parent and guardian sessions:
  • Encourage collaboration with students in setting academic, college, and career goals
  • Provide opportunities to connect with Ϲ staff and faculty
  • Share resources and guidance during program orientation

Application Timeline

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

June 15

Application Opens

Sept. 30

Application Deadline
Nov.14
Next session

High School Requirements and Application Procedure

How Do I Qualify?

How Do I Qualify?

Students must demonstrate a strong interest in careers in the health sciences and/or medicine and meet the following criteria:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 (middle school GPA for freshmen if applicable; high school GPA for sophomores and above)
  • Be able to travel to the Ϲ–Milwaukee campus for each scheduled session.
Program acceptance is reviewed holistically, considering academic preparation, interest in health sciences, and overall readiness to participate.
Eligibility

Eligibility

The STEP-UP program welcomes students who are motivated to explore careers in medicine and the biomedical sciences. Applications are reviewed holistically, meaning no single academic metric determines acceptance. We consider each applicant’s academic preparation, demonstrated interest in health sciences, commitment to learning, and readiness to fully participate in the program.
How to Apply

How to Apply

To complete your application, please submit/upload:

  • A completed online application
  • Two (2) electronic letters of recommendation:
    • One from a science teacher (required)
    • One from another adult who can speak to your academic potential (e.g., counselor, mentor, or teacher; recommendations from family members and friends will not be considered)
  • Submit a copy of transcripts and attendance records (unofficial transcripts accepted)

    If selected, applicants must be available for a virtual interview as part of the review process.