Loma Linda University Summer Discovery Program for High School Students<br />

Important Update: Applications for Discovery 2026 open January 12!

Discovery (formerly the Summer Gateway program) is a two-week program for high school students in the Inland Empire who are interested in health sciences careers. Students participate in an interactive learning environment, get skills to prepare for college, and explore opportunities in many fields, including:

  • Allied Health
  • Behavioral Health
  • Dentistry
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Public Health

The program takes place on the Loma Linda University campus and features daily team-building activities and a day of local community service. Select students 17 ½ and older may be invited to a third week, where they’ll shadow professionals at local health facilities.

Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided for all student participants throughout the 2-week program.

Inspiring the health professionals of tomorrow through in-depth learning

“Discovery is an incredible program for high school students to gain exposure to the multitude of healthcare professions out there. I went through this program myself in high school, and it helped me to realize that I wanted to pursue pharmacy."

Dates

  • Program: July 12 to July 24, 2026
  • Optional Shadowing Week for students ages 17.5+: July 27 to July 31, 2026

Location

  • Loma Linda University

Fees

  • $30 non-refundable application fee
  • *fee waiver available based on financial need

How to Apply

  • Click here to apply
  • Applicants must:
    • Be in high school (9th - 12th grade)
    • Complete the application form
    • Submit the recommendation form (PDF), completed by a teacher or clergy member
    • Submit a 200-word essay on their interest in the health sciences
    • Pay the $30 application fee or request fee waiver 
  • Deadline to apply: April 12, 2026

Volunteer With Us

LLU Students

We’re looking for LLU student volunteers to assist their schools with presentations and workshops. Other opportunities include facilitating community service activities and helping with Drayson Center health activities. Sign up on our volunteer portal, or learn more by emailing us or calling us at 909-651-5011.

Healthcare Professionals

We’re looking for clinicians, faculty members, or healthcare providers who are interested in working with us or hosting our students for shadowing. Sign up on our volunteer portal, or learn more by emailing us or calling us at 909-651-5011.

Support Our Work

The Discovery program is committed to giving high school students the opportunity to explore and pursue health sciences careers. You can help us make a difference — make a tax-deductible donation today.

Are you an LLU Pipeline Program Alumni?

Please email us to join the Alumni Association, which makes you eligible for scholarships, mentorship, fellowships, and more. Opportunities include programs such as our Transition 2 Success Program, where we are supporting 12 students through educational transitions with three years of scholarship support, mentorship, workshops, and more.

Don't miss out on your opportunity to stay connected!