CHAMPS

Careers in Health and Medicine (CHAMPS) Program

The Careers in Health and Medicine Program, better known as CHAMPS, is a 5 day healthcare summer camp for rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are interested in healthcare.

This CHAMPS program engages students of color, first generation students, and students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds with opportunities to gain experience in the medical field. This program allows students to explore various possibilities of working in a healthcare setting while learning from experienced physicians, providers, and health professionals about their work. CHAMPs is focused on creating a pipeline of diverse and knowledgeable students who will pursue the medical field. This is an experience that students will not want to miss!

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CHAMPS

July 14-18th, 2025

  • Programming will last between 8am and 4:30pm

  • FREE of charge to students accepted

  • Location: Ascension Providence - 6901 MEDICAL PKWY, WACO, TX 76712

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About Ascension Providence

Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization dedicated to transformation through innovation across the continuum of care. As one of the leading non-profit and Catholic health systems in the U.S., Ascension is committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. The national health system operates more than 2,600 sites of care – including 146 hospitals.

Potential Events

Day 1

  • Hospital Onboarding / Introductions

  • Hospital Tour

  • College Admissions

  • Professional Development Activity

  • Intensive Care Unit Workshop

Day 2

  • Physician Speakers

  • Physician Assistant Speakers

  • Primary Care Workshop

  • Simulation Lab

  • College Resume Building

  • Professional Development Activity

Day 3

  • CPR Certification

  • Nurse Practitioner Speakers

  • Catheterization Laboratory Workshop

  • Personal Statement Workshop

  • Making the most of Shadowing

  • Professional Development Activity

Day 4

  • Clinical Shadowing

  • Operating Room Workshop

  • Professional Development Activity

  • Shadowing Debrief

Day 5

  • CareFlight/Ambulance Tour and Demonstration

  • Guest Speaker

  • Emergency Room Workshop

  • Suture Lab

  • Interviewing Skills

  • Professional Development Activity

  • Program Closing

How to Apply

Students who are interested in CHAMPs must complete their application via Smartsheet. The application will include biographical information, academic program information, short answer questions, and a minimum of 1 letter of recommendation from a teacher/educator . The entire application should be completed in its entirety (including short answer responses) before submission. Once it is submitted, you will not be able to change or edit it.

Please keep in mind the application deadline when completing your application. The deadline to apply is May 9th, 2025. Applications will not be accepted late.

FAQs

  • The CHAMPS Program is free of charge to all students.

  • Transportation will not be provided to or from Ascension Providence Hospital. It will be up to the student to get to the hospital each day on time for program activities. If you have an issue with transportation do reach out because there may be other students commuting from near by.

  • The COVID-19 vaccine is NOT required for students to participate in CHAMPS. Although, being vaccinated protects their health due to possible exposures and protects the health of those around them at the hospital. The COVID-19 vaccine is free of charge and can be obtained from many different locations.

  • Yes, students are required to have a negative TB-test completed within the last year of starting the CHAMPS program. Your primary care physician can provide the test and the reading or you can also reach out to the McLennan County Public Health District for more information on TB.

  • Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided everyday of the camp free to students.

  • One letter of recommendation from a high school teacher, educator, or administrator is required. This should be someone who knows your academic and personal character. You can also submit an optional second letter of recommendation from a person of your choice. Pick someone who can speak in detail about you. (And don't forget to ask them if they can write you a positive reference letter!)