Submissions have closed for 2025 - please read on to learn more about the internship in preparation for 2026 applications reopening.

--

Are you an Oregon high-school student interested in studying or working in cardiovascular health? Explore a career in the field of cardiology through a summer internship at the OHSU Knight Cardiovascular Institute.

The Knight Cardiovascular Institute Program gives high school students a chance to explore careers in the field of cardiology, including treatment and prevention. This internship will provide hands-on exposure to real-world applications in cardiovascular medicine, allow students to understand the complexities of the field, and foster a deeper appreciation for the critical role cardiovascular health plays in overall well-being. By immersing themselves in this area early on, students can develop a clearer understanding of the profession, build essential skills, and explore potential career paths within this vital and ever-evolving branch of medicine.

The program has four tracks:

• Introduction: Held the first week of June to August, 2025
• Immersion: Not offered in 2025
• Intensive: Not offered in 2025
• Research: Not offered in 2025
• Education: Not offered in 2025

Who can apply?

Participants must be:

• At least 16 years old by May 30, 2025
• A student enrolled in an Oregon High School for the spring of 2025.

No prior experience in the cardiology field is needed.

Preference will be given to applicants who:

• Are in 10th or 11th grade this year (Spring 2025)
• Have an interest in a career in the cardiovascular field - be sure to address your interest in your application

Application process

Please read all of the following information before you submit your application.

To apply:

• Submit your application by 11:59 p.m. May 12, 2025
• A letter of recommendation submitted on your behalf  by 11:59 p.m. May 12, 2025

Your application

The application will ask you to respond to four prompts/questions. Be sure you have a thoughtful response prepared to copy and paste (or type) into each response box in the application. You cannot save the application to return to later, so preparing your responses ahead of time will help you. Your written responses are the primary way that we evaluate your interest and commitment to the program.

The four questions/prompts are as follows:

1. Why are you interested in this program? Discuss the reason you would like to participate in this program and explain what you are hoping to gain from this experience.
2. Tell us about one of your favorite science or math experiences thus far (it could be a class, camp, program, science fair, or something else that sparked your interest). What made it your favorite?
3. How do you see the cardiology/cardiovascular field playing a role in your community?
4. This program includes research opportunities over future summers. Please indicate your level of interest in participating in research training beyond this 7-day experience.

Letter of recommendation

Your letter of recommendation should be someone who has taught you in the past or is currently teaching you. Ensure you have phone numbers and email addresses for your parent or guardian and for the person writing your letter of recommendation.