Medical College of Wisconsin
Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center
Researchers in lab

Middle and High School Students

Educational programs for young learners are intended to raise awareness about cancer, cancer prevention and healthy lifestyles, and also showcase career paths in biomedical sciences with a focus on cancer research.

Educational Opportunities

Learn about the educational and training opportunities for middle and high school students.

Cancer Center Student
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500 Stars
The CTSI 500 Stars Initiative is a ten-year, comprehensive, multi-institutional, and community-focused initiative, with the overarching objective of enrolling 500 students over ten years into the CTSI 500 Stars. We offer direct, hands-on, professional experiences in clinical and translational science settings at CTSI partner and collaborator sites, as well as in the community. The Initiative works with well-established regional partners and takes both direct and supportive roles in the educational experience.

Learn about 500 Stars
ACS Healthcare Experience and Research in Oncology (HERO)

This virtual, multi-institutional program for freshmen, sophomores, and juniors interested in STEMM fields offers a two-week synchronous experience. Students collaborate on genetics-based research and patient case study projects focused on cancer science and clinical care. They also participate in faculty lectures, panel discussions, and skill-building workshops, all aimed at fostering interest in health careers and providing valuable networking opportunities for future biomedical pathways.

Applications due April 24, 2026.

Learn more and apply to the HERO program.

Cancer Health Education Program
Developed in a partnership with the Milwaukee High School of the Arts, this six-week curriculum covers the full cancer continuum—from cancer biology and prevention to clinical trials and survivorship—offering students a deeper understanding of how science connects to everyday life and community health.

Visit the Milwaukee High School of the Arts
Summer Pathway Enrichment Program
This summer intensive is designed to spark early engagement in the health sciences through hands-on learning modules and structured exploration. Participants are encouraged to move beyond general science concepts and begin identifying the specific roles they can play in the future of healthcare and biomedical research.

View summer enrichment programs
Annual Research Trainee Symposium
This annual symposium allows trainees an opportunity to showcase their research through oral presentations and poster sessions. The event includes a keynote address from a nationally renowned scientist with attendees comprised of high school, college, and graduate students as well as postdoctoral trainees.

Read about the 2024 Trainee Symposium
High School Students in Science Lab

500 Stars Initiative Shines Light on Careers in Science

The CTSI 500 Stars Initiative is a community-focused summer internship designed to increase student participation in the translational science workforce. By offering hands-on professional experience, and with active support by family members, students are introduced to career pathways in science.

Learn about the 500 Stars program
Speaker presenting to students

Trainee Symposium Celebrates Learners Who Are Pushing the Boundaries of Science

Nearly 50 cancer research trainees shared their recent research findings at the Cancer Center's annual symposium - an event designed to showcase the knowledge, curiosity and collaboration of tomorrow's cancer researchers.

Read About the 2024 Trainee Symposium