Public Health Initiative for Resourceful Education

About MPHI-PHIRE

The Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI) is a private, non‑profit research and health policy institute united by a shared mission to advance population health through public health innovation and collaboration. We work to promote health and advance well‑being for all.

MPHI-PHIRE (Public Health Initiative for Resourceful Education) is a 6‑week summer virtual program for high school students. The program is designed to empower and educate students about the opportunities and challenges in public health, and inspire them to pursue careers in this field.

The program’s vision aims to expand educational opportunities for students, introduce careers in public health, and showcase the positive impact they can have in all communities.

Student Incentives After Completion

At the end of the successful completion of the program, students will be awarded:

  • $500 stipend.
  • Public Health Initiative for Resourceful Education High Schoolers Certificate.
  • Letter of Recommendation.

TUESDAYS
3:30 PM–5 PM EST
June 16, 23 and July 7, 14, 21, 28 (2026)

Student Requirements

We are actively accepting students who meet the following requirements. Please share this enriching opportunity with youth, parents/guardians, and organizations.

At the time of application, the candidate must:

  • Be a student enrolled in a high school within the United States.
  • Be a high school incoming sophomore/junior/senior (Graduating 2027, 2028, 2029).
  • Have an unweighted GPA of 2.75 or above.
  • Show a record of service or leadership.
  • Provide two letters of recommendation.
  • EXTENDED DEADLINE:
    Submit a completed application that is due Friday, May 29, 2026 by 5:00 p.m. EST

For additional questions, Email: phire-mentors@mphi.org.

EXTENDED DEADLINE:
Application is due by Friday, May 29, 2026 by 5:00 p.m. EST

What grade can I be in to apply?
You should be an incoming 10th, 11th or 12th grader i.e. your high school graduation years should be between 2027 to 2029.

Will we meet in person?
No, the program will be entirely virtual on Microsoft Teams.

How will I participate in the sessions?
You will be emailed a Teams/Zoom link.

Will sessions be recorded?
There will be transcription captured of each session. Video recording will not be allowable.

What happens if I miss one session?
We will be practicing – WIWT (Wish I Was There). This means you will be help accountable for reading the transcription, following up with fellow peer mentees, as well as your mentors on missed instruction and specifics on homework.

In case you miss more than one session you will become ineligible for the scholarship.

How long is each session?
About 1 and half hours per week.

When will the sessions occur?
Sessions will occur on TUESDAYS, from 3.30 pm to 5 pm EST on June 16 and 23; and July 7, 14, 21, and 28.

Who are the mentors?
Your Mentors will be MPHI employees who are experts in their field.

What will I learn?
Introduction to Public Health, Career in Public Health, Public Health policies/ law and its impact, Public Health Data and Research.

Will there be group projects?
Yes, there will be some group projects.

Will I have homework?
Yes. Homework will be given to help you apply the learning from the session each week.

When do I receive my stipend?
A check will be mailed to you at the end of the program’s completion.

Where do I send my other questions?
Please email your questions to phire-mentors@mphi.org.

MPHI is a non-profit organization committed to the vision of a just world where tomorrow is healthier for all! We work closely with universities, and federal and state health agencies to develop public health policies, programs, and research that promote healthy living for all.