San Diego City Wire

A collaborative initiative by the County's Health and Human Services Agency and the San Diego County Office of Education is now open for applications. The Public Health Advocate Camp, a summer program designed for high school students interested in public health, will run from June 23 to June 27. This opportunity, now in its third year, is organized at no cost to participants.

This summer camp offers students hands-on, project-based training facilitated by professionals in the field of public health. The curriculum covers critical subjects like tuberculosis, epidemiology, immunization services, HIV, and mental health. It aims to broaden students' understanding of public health careers beyond traditional hospital systems.

Instructors are public health professionals and doctors affiliated with the County’s Public Health Services department. The camp provides a comprehensive introduction to public health careers as well as a professional network for participating students.

“This is a great opportunity for us to engage and inspire the next generation of public health professionals,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, County interim public health officer. “Students will leave this camp with real examples of how their work can keep the communities they live in safe and healthy.”

The program is open to high school sophomores and juniors for the 2024-2025 academic year. Interested students must submit their applications by May 2. More information and registration details are available via the San Diego County Office of Education's website. Additionally, a video from the 2023 Public Health Advocate Camp is available for viewing.

For further details, the County Communications Office can be reached at communications@sdcounty.ca.gov or by phone at 619-595-4633.