Wake Forest Summer Immersion: Health and Exercise Science Institute

The Health and Exercise Science Institute at Wake Forest University is a week-long, immersive program designed for high school students in grades 9-12 who are passionate about health, fitness, and wellness. This hands-on experience provides a deep dive into the essentials of health and exercise science, offering students the chance to explore career opportunities in fields like physical therapy, sports nutrition, and rehabilitation. Hosted on the beautiful Reynolda Campus in Winston-Salem, NC, this program combines academic rigor with practical applications to inspire future health professionals. Program Highlights Students will engage in a variety of topics and hands-on activities that provide insight into the human body and its functions: Topics Covered Cardiovascular and pulmonary anatomy and health Careers in health and exercise science Muscle function and strength conditioning Physical therapy and rehabilitation practices Sports nutrition and fitness Hands-On Experiences Conduct heart rate and blood pressure tests Perform muscle function evaluations Participate in pulmonary testing Engage in strength and fitness conditioning drills Conduct cardio-respiratory evaluations These practical experiences are complemented by lectures from Wake Forest faculty, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of health science concepts. Daily Schedule A typical day at the institute includes a mix of academic learning, hands-on labs, and recreational activities: Morning: Breakfast followed by lectures or lab work (e.g., pulmonary testing or cardiovascular evaluations). Afternoon: Tours of facilities like the Strength and Conditioning Center at WFU Football Center, along with fitness drills or muscle function testing. Evening: Social activities, free time for reflection, or group discussions. Lights Out: Students prepare for bed by 9 PM to ensure they’re ready for the next day’s activities. Program Details Location: Reynolda Campus, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC Eligibility: Open to current high school students in grades 9–12 Tuition: $3,400 (includes lodging, meals, course materials, and activities) Certificate: Participants receive an official Wake Forest University Certificate of Completion upon finishing the program. Why Choose This Program? Parents and students alike value this program for its unique blend of academic enrichment and career exploration. The Health and Exercise Science Institute allows participants to: Gain real-world insights into health-related careers through hands-on labs. Build confidence by working closely with university faculty and peers. Experience life on a college campus while exploring their passion for health sciences. For teens interested in understanding how exercise impacts wellness or exploring careers in healthcare, this program offers an unforgettable opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for their future.