Ochsner Summer Programs

STEM Pathfinder Program

The STEM Pathfinder application for summer 2026 will launch on February 23. Apply here: https://ochsner.smapply.org/

Programs will be held in these regions:
-Shreveport – June 15-19, 2026 
-Lafayette – June 22-26, 2026 
-Monroe – June 22-26, 2026 
-River Region – July 6-10, 2026 
-Baton Rouge – July 13-17, 2026 
-New Orleans – July 20-24, 2026 

Mission Statement

STEM Pathfinder is a cost-free program that encourages entry into the health sciences workforce by introducing local high school students to a wide range of career paths. Ochsner healthcare professionals from across many disciplines provide mentorship to the program scholars, preparing them to make intentional career decisions.

Program Description

STEM Pathfinder is a free one-week summer program for students entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade. The program is focused primarily on healthcare career exploration and interactive science education. Scholars learn about various healthcare career tracks through mentorship from Ochsner professionals. In addition to career chats and tours of Ochsner’s facilities, the program incorporates hands-on learning opportunities, clinical skills training, and scientific experiments. Initially launched in New Orleans East in 2021, STEM Pathfinder has since expanded to include Baton Rouge, River Region, Shreveport, Monroe, and Lafayette.

Results after attending the STEM Pathfinder Program:

• 100% of students are
  • More aware of the variety of different healthcare careers.
  • More confident in their ability to pursue a healthcare career related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
• 96% of scholars are
  • More interested in pursuing a healthcare career.
  • More empowered to learn about becoming a healthcare professional.

Eligibility

Applicants must have an interest in health sciences, attend a school in the program's region, and be 14+ years old by the program start date.

Application Process

1. Online Student Application (completed by the student)

The online student application includes: 

• General Student Information
• 2 or 3 Short Answer Responses
• School Transcript or Report Card
• Letter of Recommendation

2. Letter of Recommendation

• A request will automatically be sent to your recommender after you complete the "Recommender Request" section of your application. You will need the recommender's name and email address.
• Be sure to talk to your recommender before and after submitting their information to be sure that they have received the submission link. It is the student's responsibility to make sure the recommendation is completed on time.