A Summer Experience for Future Public Health Leaders
The Ambassadors Program is a week-long summer experience designed for high school students who are curious about public health, healthcare, and leadership. Through hands-on projects, interactive workshops, and mentorship from professionals, students explore what it means to be changemakers in their community.
Program Highlights
- Meet world renowned physicians, researchers, and community leaders tackling real-world health challenges
- Explore career pathways in medicine, research, and public health
- Build leadership, research, and communication skills
- Present a capstone project at the end of the week
- Strengthen your resume and college applications
What You’ll Do
Throughout the week, you’ll dive into the world of public health and healthcare leadership. You’ll learn how advocacy, research, and innovation drive change, and you’ll see what it takes to turn ideas into impact. In small groups, you’ll collaborate on a project that reflects your interests, with guidance from mentors and feedback from experts. Along the way, you’ll participate in panels, workshops, and activities that open doors to future opportunities—whether in medicine, community health, or beyond.
Why Join?
- Gain early exposure to healthcare and public health fields
- Meet medical students, hear about their journey, and receive guidance and support as you explore your own path in healthcare and research
- Learn directly from professionals and advocates making change today
- Develop practical skills that will serve you in high school, college, and beyond
- Build friendships and connections with like-minded peers
- Experience Northwestern University’s Chicago campus firsthand
Program Snapshot
- One week in the summer: July 20-24, 2026 (Monday–Friday, 10am–3pm)
- Location: Northwestern University’s Chicago campus
- Who Can Apply: High school students interested in public health, medicine, advocacy, and leadership
Ready to Lead?
This program is your chance to explore future pathways, learn from experts, and use your voice to inspire change.
Apply to Become an Ambassador!
Costs
The cost of the 2026 Ambassadors Program is $650, which covers food and educational materials.
All students are encouraged to apply regardless of financial need. Tuition assistance is available to students who apply. Selected applicants will receive instructions for acceptance requirements.
Applications close on Sunday, June 21st!
If you have any questions about the Ambassadors Program, please email our Director of Education Sam Sansweet at samantha.sansweet@northwestern.edu.
2025 Ambassador Testimonials
CFAAR program inspired many of us young students to get involved and don’t be afraid to join different opportunities. The lectures were an amazing opportunity to look at how far other speakers have come along to where they are.”
This program helped me connect my interest in public health to real people and real research! I left feeling more confident in my path and grateful for the community that CFAAR created. Thank you for making space for student voices!”
I loved every speakers’ talks! They really helped me understand how passionate I am about the medical field. Also, I like how people are so nice and approachable."