LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 15, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is now accepting applications for its Summer Student Academy in Public Health (SAPH), an immersive learning experience running July 6 through July 31, 2026.

The SAPH offers rising high school seniors a unique opportunity to explore careers in public health through structured group learning and field-based experiences. As part of SMCHD’s broader efforts to build the next generation of the health workforce, the program introduces students to public health practice while strengthening connections to their local community.

Participants commit approximately 20–25 hours per week and will:

• Explore and analyze a range of public health topics affecting their community
• Participate in interactive group learning sessions and discussions
• Engage in field experiences, including site visits, partner meetings, and community outreach events
• Complete a capstone project focused on a public health issue and potential solutions

“The Academy gives students a meaningful, real-world introduction to public health,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Participants don’t just read about public health – they experience it through group learning and field activities while seeing how local public health practice impacts their community. Programs like this help build interest in health careers and strengthen our future workforce.”

Students interested in applying can learn more about the program and access application materials at smchd.org/jobs. The application deadline is Friday, May 15, 2026.

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