Gateway Exploration Program

The Gateway Exploration Program (GEP) is an internship opportunity for high school students (rising sophomores, juniors and seniors), to explore their dream aspirations of becoming a physician and/or entering the health professions.

Historically, GEP has supported scholars from District of Columbia Public Schools. Starting Summer 2026, scholars from Prince William County Public Schools will also be invited to participate in this interactive experience.

We are looking for motivated high school students who are interested in ultimately attending medical school or pursuing other health studies. GEP scholars are matched as interns to various medical departments, where they will engage in shadowing and mentorship. Scholars have the opportunity to participate in professional development workshops and health disparity presentations.

Student Voices

“Through GEP, I want to be able to decide if medicine is the right field for me. Medicine is important to me because of my family experiences and commitment to prevent other families from experiencing the same things” – Camilla Young, Calvin Coolidge HS (GEP 2019)

“In GEP, it’s not a choice for one to be confident, you have to learn to be confident. The program has offered me with various insight on what is happening in science and medicine” – Nakiah Farrell, Eastern Senior HS (GEP 2019)

Meet Past GEP Cohorts

A group of students wearing medical white coats stand together on the steps in front of the Med-Dent Building on campus — GEP 2025 Cohort

Click to View Past Cohorts of GEP Scholars

Program Overview

Program Dates: June 22 – July 31, 2026
Location: Georgetown University, School of Medicine
Contact: somdiversityandinclusion@georgetown.edu

A group of students and mentors stand together on the steps in front of the Med-Dent Building on campus — GEP 2025 cohort with ARCHES mentors

Four students sit on steps in front of the Med-Dent Building on campus — GEP Scholars from Jackson-Reed High School

A large auditorium with people seated — GEP Scholar from Columbia Heights Educational Campus (CHEC) presents his research at GUSOM

Two individuals shake hands — GEP Scholar from Coolidge High School with his ARCHES mentor from Howard University

Internship Details

GEP Scholars Have the Opportunity to:

Engage in sought-after clinical shadowing and medical simulations
Attend lectures and presentations led by Georgetown University faculty
Make meaningful connections with mentors and professionals in the Medical Center
Refine research and writing skills while exploring the impact of heatlh disparities on local communities
Present a health disparities research project at the end of the summer

Selection Process

Apply through your participating school system
Await application review
Schedule virtual interview with Georgetown University School of Medicine’s ODEIB
Accept your internship spot by the deadline
Complete the required orientation and documentation