Northwestern Medicine Discovery Program expands to McHenry County students

A new program at Northwestern Medicine hospitals in Woodstock, McHenry and Huntley will give high school sophomores and juniors considering a future in health care exposure to science, technology, engineering and math.

Dubbed the Northwestern Medicine Discovery Program, the initiative will include tours, guest speakers, hands-on projects and networking with health care professionals, according to a news release. The program also will develop professional skills and provide community service and leadership experience.

"The Northwestern Medicine Discovery Program gives high school students an up-close look at different health care career options,” said Dawn Roznowski, director of community affairs for the health care system. “Our goal is to develop the next generation of leaders so they will pursue additional education and return to McHenry County to care for our community members.”

The one-year program will be open to 15 high school students who meet certain criteria and complete the application process, according to the release. Meetings are from 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays once a month at one of the hospitals and may include opportunities to visit other Northwestern Medicine locations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the classes will be virtual. This year's first session will be in November.

The discovery program began in 1996 in Chicago. This year, it is welcoming the first students from McHenry County.

Applications must be received by Oct. 2. Responses will be emailed by early November. Application instructions can be viewed online at bit.ly/3k3AffA.