The innovative program provides high school students interested in future medical careers with broad-based and varied educational insights into the real-world practice of medicine.
Medical and research internships play a key role in fostering the growth of professional skills, development of a professional network, and increased awareness of future career opportunities. However, for the next generation of researchers and clinicians, opportunities to participate in paid, summer-long skill-building internships can sometimes be challenging to find.
The Internship in Science and Health Training and Research (ISHTaR) at UNC provides a paid internship opportunity for North Carolina high school students to develop research skills, network with clinicians and researchers across an array of professions, learn practical medical knowledge, and apply a public health lens to community health problems.
The UNC Department of Emergency Medicine has operated this unique internship experience for high school-aged interns for the last 8 consecutive years. Through partnerships with Orange County EMS and the Community Health Lab of Durham Technical Community College, interns benefit from being exposed to the practice of medicine within our North Carolina communities, where local impact changes lives.
Expanding Due to Popular Demand
Now in its 9th year, ISHTaR is further expanding. In each of its last 2 consecutive application seasons, interest in ISHTaR has doubled. For the 2025 cohort, the program received 243 applications. Furthermore, ISHTaR has increased its departmental reach by welcoming the active participation of the Department of Anesthesiology, which is hosting its first ISHTaR intern this year!
The UNC Advocates for Inclusion in Medicine and Science (AIMS), a student-led organization, is hosting journal clubs to promote scientific literature reading and doctorate-level education and research awareness. AIMS’ efforts this summer are led by Mr. Tej Verma and Ms. Nena Kotsalidis, representatives of AIMS Service Outreach Committee.
In addition, we are excited to welcome 4 interns to the 2025 cohort! The 3 Emergency Medicine interns are Ms. Maleiha Vance, Ms. Rosely Resendiz-Alas, and Ms. Savannah Stewart. The inaugural Anesthesiology intern is Mr. Xinjie Yu.
Bright Minds and A Focus on Helping Patients Mean a Brighter Future for Our Community
- Maleiha Vance is a Junior at Piedmont Classical High School. Her current career aspiration is to become a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) and continue to advocate for equitable healthcare. Maleiha is most excited for gaining hands-on experience and exploring the many medical opportunities at UNC Chapel Hill this summer.
- Rosely Resendiz-Alas is a Sophomore at Cary High School. Her goal is to explore various fields and groups within healthcare to find the specialty best suited to her skills and interests. She is particularly enthusiastic about the career conversations this summer, where she will have the opportunity to engage with professionals and gain valuable insight.
- Savannah Stewart is a Junior at Vernon Malone College and Career Academy where she is studying in their Nurses Aid Program. Her current career aspiration is to become an otolaryngologist). Savannah is most excited about the opportunity to work with the UNC School of Medicine and meet new people this summer.
- Xinjie Yu is an intern for the ISHTaR program’s 2025 cohort. He aspires to become an anesthesiologist and researcher, contributing to both lingering and new issues as well as treating patients. This summer, he is excited to network with different professionals in their respected fields, gaining experience through career conversations and shadowing. He also hopes to gain valuable research experience with other faculty and student learners.
Ms. Julianne Cyr, Research Instructor in Emergency Medicine and ISHTaR Program Lead, and Dr. Benjamin Antonio, Associate Professor in Anesthesiology and ISHTaR Program Co-Lead, are excited to kick off another memorable summer for the ISHTaR program at UNC!