A key component of the Health Services Academy (HSA) High School model includes providing opportunities for high school students to advance their knowledge and skills through practical experience, research and service, paving the way for matriculation into college and health care careers. To that end, we have been working to develop a dynamic Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program.  

Today, we are proud to announce that the continued growth of this program is being supported by a grant from UniHealth Foundation, a non-profit philanthropic organization whose mission is to support and facilitate activities that significantly improve the health and well being of individuals and communities within its service area.

With their support, we can continue to build on vital aspects of the program that include: medical training and certification in first aid, CPR and HIPAA; job skills training; service learning projects; health related field trips; guest speakers from health service professions; mentorships provided by local college, university and medical students; job-shadowing; and on-site internships with universities and health service organizations.

While still in its early stages of development, the effect of the WBL Program on our students is already apparent.  Sophomore Jamie had always dreamed of being an OB/GYN, but didn't think it would be possible.  Now in her second year at HSA, Jamie, a Grade 10 student, is seeing things differently.  "Health Services Academy impacts me to further think outside my boundaries and go into the career of my dreams," she said recently.  Aldair, also a 10th grader, had told his Medical Science Teacher throughout his 9th grade year that he just wanted to work with computers and had no interest in medicine.  By the end of the year, he had decided to pursue a career in bioengineering.  After a visit to the UCLA Simulation Center during our first school year, one HSA freshman said of the experience, "I seriously know what I want to do with my life now that I've had that special opportunity to experience first hand what doctors do. That totally set off a light bulb in my head."

“We are extremely grateful to the Board of UniHealth Foundation for making this investment in the students of HSA and the community of South Los Angeles," says HSA Principal Erik Elward.  "Their support will help to further strengthen our commitment to inspiring and expanding a new generation of ethnically diverse and culturally competent health care professionals prepared to meet the growing needs of our city, state and nation."