The Guiding Innovation in Research and HealthCare Careers program expands healthcare and STEM career access for Title I and underserved youth in Central Florida. The program will provide SIM and STEM career-exploration tours to 200 high school students during the academic year; a simulation-based summer camp for 25 students; year-long healthcare and STEM research opportunities for 25 students; and a week-long professional development experience for 30 teachers.
This program is needed because students in underserved schools often lack exposure to hands-on healthcare experiences, mentorship, and clear pathways to informed postsecondary and career decisions. Teachers in these schools also have limited access to current healthcare/STEM training, reducing their ability to guide students toward high-demand, high-growth fields.
Student participants will shadow healthcare and STEM professionals, conduct research, and engage in high-fidelity simulation experiences. The research mentorship program includes a foundational learning phase, a summer intensive, and a culminating phase focused on data analysis, scientific writing, and presentation skills. Teachers will participate in a professional development program focused on simulation-based training, evidence-based instructional methods, and year-round curricular support.
All major activities take place at AdventHealth University , clinical and research facilities, with transportation provided to ensure access for all participants.
Leana Goncalves Araujo
Sheri Baeza