The Health Scholar program allows you to gain firsthand experience in both clinical and administrative healthcare settings and become an integral part of the patient care team. You will assist with basic care for patients alongside nurses, physicians and other clinicians, and have opportunities to learn the “business” of health care preparing you for your health care career. This program is offered year-round with enrollment occurring every quarter. Most individuals graduate from the program in 15 months after completing 280 hours of health care experience with a commitment of one 4-hour shift per week. For those looking to complete the program faster, we offer 9-month, 6-month, and 3-month options where you will receive priority shift selection in order to finish at an accelerated pace. Additionally, upon graduation, scholars will receive a completion certificate from the Keck Graduate Institute. The program is offered at various health care sites throughout California, Washington and Hawaii.

Our experiential learning programs provide Scholars with the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in a variety of health care settings, impact patients’ lives and become an integral part of the care delivery team. Scholars are able to conduct their shifts at different departments throughout the hospital and gain a better understanding of the day-to-day work of clinicians.

I wanted to share with you a little about my experience! The Health Scholars program at St. Joseph Hospital is a unique opportunity that is different than your average hospital volunteer position. I get the chance to be exposed to several departments, observe procedures, and practice hands-on patient care skills including bathing, feeding, taking vitals, ambulating and more! I genuinely feel like I have honed in on the skills that are essential to caring for those in their most vulnerable moments of ill health. This program has opened up other opportunities for me to observe and work alongside members of the patient-care team including nurses, physicians, physical therapists, PAs, pharmacists, and other medical professionals.

-Alison Mattias, Previous Assistant Director of Enrollment

I am so grateful for all the opportunities this program has brought me over the last 3 years. As a Health Scholar, I not only enjoy serving the community I cherish but this clinical opportunity provided me with the skills and confidence I need. I learned how to openly communicate through patient encounters while allowing me to assist staff to expand my knowledge. Always be proactive and approach staff because they’re always willing to help you. Round and interact with your patients! This experience has created a lasting impact on my life and made me a more compassionate human being.

-Nancy Nguyen, Previous Assistant Director of Training and Education

Learning how to interact with patients - this is such a great first exposure to treating, interacting with, and comforting complete strangers and pushes you to step out of your comfort zone. I have grown so much as a student, professional, and future healthcare provider in this program.

-Emma Beale, Previous Department Coordinator of Medical Intensive Care Unit