Michigan Offers Health Disparities Internship

The University of Michigan's commitment to tackling health disparities dates back to 1986 with the creation of the Summer Enrichment Program (SEP). Founded by Dr. Richard Lichtenstein, the program was designed to increase the representation of students of color in health management and policy. In 2024, the program was rebranded as the Summer Enrichment Program in Health Equity and Leadership Training in Healthcare and Public Health (SEP-HEALTHSpark). This eight-week internship continues the original mission of training future leaders to eliminate health inequalities. Each summer, 15-20 undergraduate students from across the country are selected to participate. Participants are placed in healthcare and public health organizations in Southeast Michigan for a hands-on field experience three days a week. Past partner organizations include major health systems like Henry Ford Health System and Trinity Health, as well as community-based organizations such as the Community Health and Social Services Center (CHASS) and The Corner Health Center. The program provides comprehensive support to its interns. This includes a $3,750 stipend, on-campus housing in residence halls, funding for round-trip travel to Ann Arbor, and transportation to field placements. A food allowance is also provided to help cover on-campus dining costs. Students are paired with mentors and work on self-directed projects that are valuable to their host institutions. The curriculum is enhanced with weekly workshops, seminars with University of Michigan faculty and alumni, and an in-depth case analysis of a current health challenge. The program has a strong track record of success. Over 90% of past participants have pursued graduate studies in fields such as public health, medicine, and health sciences. Alumni have gone on to hold senior leadership positions in hospitals, community health centers, and health policy organizations.