The Penwasciz Heath Careers Program will accept applications on Sept. 2, 2025, from 3:30-9:30 p.m. only. The application will appear on this webpage at 3:30 p.m.

The Penwasciz program has been an active student volunteer program at Advocate Condell Medical Center for over 70 years. The name is derived from three things a nurse always carries: a pen, watch and scissors. It is an educational volunteer program that exposes high school students interested in health care careers to various health care specialties.

If accepted, students are placed into clinical groups that participate in weekly two-hour rotations shadowing health care personnel in nursing and support services areas within the hospital. Through direct patient interactions and observations, Penwasciz can enhance the student’s hospital experience and help reinforce their desire to pursue a career in the medical field.

Program structure

Eligible participants: High school juniors and seniors ages 16 and older

Timeframe: Weekly from November 2025 to April 2026

Clinical rotations: Mondays 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m.

Clinical areas: Students are placed on medical/surgical units and shadow health care providers in specialty areas such as obstetrics, respiratory, radiology, emergency department, cardiology and pharmacy, where they are allowed to observe procedures (with patient permission).

Orientation: Each student attends one five-hour orientation session plus an additional four-hour session for CPR training for students who are not currently certified in CPR for health care providers.

Monthly educationals: Guest speakers discuss health care and wellness topics or roles within health care.

Graduation: We host a ceremony at the end of the program.

Attendance requirement: Only two absences allowed.

Questions?

Contact us to learn more.