The STEM Internship program is aimed at intellectually-curious Philadelphia High School students who have been directly affected by violence and want to make a difference in their communities. Through a variety of educational programs, these students explore the impact of violence upon themselves and their communities, while improving their understanding of science, technology, and medicine. The program focuses on three distinct but interconnected areas:
- The pressures that create a culture of violence in our communities and schools.
- The forensic tools used by police to solve and investigate violent crimes.
- The deep sense of bereavement that affects those who have lost a loved one to violence.
Students gain an understanding of social justice while learning about careers in STEM in a safe, engaging environment. They also develop the tools necessary to prepare for their futures and address issues that directly affect their communities.
For more detailed information on past events and activities related to the STEM Internship program, see our Archive.
The program is made possible through generous contributions from Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and AmerisourceBergen.
What is involved in the program?
What have past interns accomplished during the program?
Who is eligible for the program?
How can a student apply?
When is enrollment?
How many students are accepted?
Are there any costs involved?
How can I find more information about the program?
What is involved in the program?
The program consists of two parts:
The first is a four-week summer internship that takes place through the month of July. During the summer, students meet four days a week for all-day sessions.
The second part is an after-school program that takes place once a week through the school year.
Most activities take place at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia (19 South 22nd Street) with occasional off-site field trips. Transportation tokens to and from the College are be provided. Interns also receive a stipend for their attendance in the program.
Students work closely with College staff and experts from a variety of fields. Through a collaboration between the College’s Mütter Museum and forensic professionals, students will be trained to utilize the same tools and methods these professionals use in the field. Students will also meet with community organizers and other experts to explore the impact of violence in their communities as well as the social, cultural, and historical factors that contribute to a culture of violence and the sense of loss facing communities when loved ones fall prey to violence.
What have past interns accomplished during the program?
Students work together with local artists to create works of video, audio, and traditional art that communicate their thoughts about violence and loss faced by individuals and communities. Past interns have also developed materials to inform their communities of issues directly affecting them, such as personal hygiene and sexual health.
For more detailed information on past events and activities related to the STEM Internship program, see our Archive.
Who is eligible for the program?
Any rising 11th or 12th grader (who will be in 11th or 12th grade in the following school year) currently enrolled at a school within the Philadelphia School District. Students from Philadelphia Charter Schools are also welcome to apply; however, students from private schools are NOT eligible to apply.
Each student must complete our online application form. We require all students receive permission from a parent or guardian and provide contact information for a teacher or other adult mentor (coach, youth group leader, religious leader, etc.) who will serve as a reference. In order to better get to know you, we ask that you include in your application the answer the following question in either the form of a brief essay (max 500 words) or video (MAX 5 minutes):
“Based on your personal experience, explain how violence have affected your life or your community. What is one possible solution to reduce the impact of violence on you or your community?”
We are NOT currently accepting applications for the STEM Internship program. Please check back for enrollment updates.
How many students are accepted?
Up to 15 students per year are accepted into the program.
There are no costs to enroll or be enrolled in the program.
How can I find out more information about the program?
For more information contact the Center for Education. For updates on the program and to learn more about the activities available to the students feel free to check our blog or follow the Center for Education on Twitter and Instagram (@mutterEDU).
