July 13-17, 2026
The Healthcare Careers Excellence Academy is a collaboration between Westfield State University and Baystate Health, and is open to any rising high school sophomore or junior interested in getting closer to achieving their goal of a career in healthcare.
Using an engaged, interactive format that balances participatory learning with relevant activities, this program is a week-long experience in many areas that students may not find in a typical healthcare course. These include a focus on communication in healthcare, improving the patient experience, public speaking, and the educational steps necessary to achieve personal goals. Students interested in any facet of healthcare – from nursing to radiology to phlebotomy – will participate in a team-focused, energetic atmosphere. Hands-on learning, such as taking vital signs, is also included. Students should be prepared to become more comfortable in unfamiliar settings and gain confidence in themselves.
Students will be treated to lunch in the Westfield State University Dining Hall, enjoy a mid-week trip to Baystate Noble Hospital to shadow in several departments, and be invited to a graduation ceremony at the end of what will be a momentous and memorable week.
Interested students should complete an application including the essay. If found to be a fit for the program, they will be invited to an interview to discuss their interest.
Important Dates
Applications due: March 20
Candidates notified for interviews: March 24
Interview dates: March 31 – April 7, April 21-23
Selected students notified of acceptance: April 30
Medical information due: May 15
Important Links
Registration form
Typical day schedule
9:00 a.m. Arrival and check in
9:30 a.m. Interactive lesson
10:15 a.m. Experiential Learning Activity
11:00 a.m. Active Event
11:45 a.m. Lunch
12:30 p.m. Interactive Lesson
1:15 p.m. Experiential Learning Activity
2:00 p.m. Active Event
2:45 p.m. Day Wrap Up
3:00 p.m. Student Pick Up
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What medical needs are required?
A. After acceptance into the program, students must complete an electronic medical form that will be emailed directly to them.
Q. What if I don’t get my forms in on time?
A. As we expect to have more interest than available slots, students who do not complete the forms before the deadline will have their candidacy discontinued so we can add someone from the wait list
Q. What will happen in the interview?
A. We will learn about you, your interests, and determine your ability to thrive in this unique setting.
Q. Where will the interviews take place? When?
A. The interviews will take place at Baystate Noble Hospital at a time convenient for the student, which may include evening hours.
Q. What if I’m not selected?
A. You will be placed on a wait list in case others are not able to meet the deadline.
Q. What does the program cost?
A. There is no cost to attend the Healthcare Careers Excellence Academy.
Q. I’m not available the entire week of July 13-17. Can I still apply?
A. As the week will have a heavy accent on teambuilding and relying on what was shared the previous day, we ask that all students be available for the entire week.
Q. I’m not a rising sophomore or junior. Are there programs being offered for students at other grade levels?
A. Rising eighth and ninth grade students may wish to check out the Healthcare Discovery Experience Program being offered at Baystate Noble Hospital August 3-7. Rising seniors and new graduates may wish to check out the Creating the Best Caregiver program, being offered at Baystate Medical Center, July 20-31. Contact rob.toonkel@baystatehealth.org for more details.
Q. Who should I contact with additional questions?
A. For additional questions, please contact Emily Ciccolo at eciccolo@westfield.ma.edu or 413-572-8656
