Rochester, Minnesota, is a growing community in need of skilled workers. RISE for Youth is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Mayo Clinic and the Rochester branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) designed to help students transform themselves from youth with potential into competitive and empowered talent entering the workforce.

RISE for Youth strives to forge new avenues for achievement by equipping students with essential educational and leadership skills, comprehensive training, and ongoing mentorship for thriving careers in healthcare, science, and other fields. RISE for Youth endeavors to bridge the gap, fostering generations of capable talent whose diverse ideas and perspectives will enhance our businesses, communities, and future successes.

RISE for Youth Scholars will participate in a program of hands-on classroom experiences and exploratory activities designed to showcase Mayo Clinic career opportunities and educational programs, as well as career paths outside of Mayo Clinic.

The curriculum will align with the RISE Framework developed by Angali Bhagra, M.D.: Reflect, Inspire, Strengthen, and Empower. Through comprehensive curriculum development, participants will experience a range of topics:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Reflect on strengths and challenges to cultivate leadership knowledge, skills, and attributes. 
• Inspire confidence and self-awareness through development of a growth mindset.  
• Strengthen academic skills through exploration of health care and other professions.  
• Empower themselves and others by modeling strategies to foster leadership development. 

RISE for Youth is a four-week summer program that engages high school juniors, seniors, and college undergraduates in a program designed to enhance opportunities for post-secondary education and entry into the workforce. Participants will examine careers and will be partnered with mentors from Mayo Clinic. Through discussions and exploration of leadership and professional development topics, students will gain insightful knowledge, hands-on experience, and professional skills.