young adults collaborating at summer research camp

Next STEPP Clinical Research Summer Camp

The Next STEPP (STEM, Technology and Educational Pathways Program) Clinical Research Summer Camp is hosted by the partnership of The Ohio State University’s College of Nursing and Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Columbus State Community College in collaboration with Amgen, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The camp, which is free to participants, aims to introduce high school students to clinical research through an immersive, hands-on summer camp experience. Students engage in activities that include developing a group research project in which they strategize about study questions, create a protocol and present a research poster. Participants also learn lab techniques, explore research, practice informed consent and become immersed in career exploration, with professionals from various institutions engaging in panel discussions.

Rave reviews for the inaugural camp in 2025

Students and their families approached this pilot year of the camp with remarkable enthusiasm; the partnership received 100 applications for only 30 spots. The camp successfully retained 33 out of 34 accepted students, with four unable to participate during various camp days due to illness.

Pre- and post-camp assessments showed significant growth in students’ understanding of research concepts and processes. Organizers plan to publish a toolkit to help other institutions replicate the camp and are seeking additional sponsorship to expand the program, potentially into two cohorts. Future goals include securing funding and identifying sustainable scheduling and collaboration strategies to accommodate growth and maintain quality.

Student testimonials from the 2025 camp

“This camp was the best summer program I have ever attended … As someone who wants to go into the medical field, exploring and learning about the impact of clinical research has inspired me to continue exploring the vast opportunities that impact patient care.”

“The past couple of days have been so enlightening and mind opening to the world of clinical research.”

“It was truly a transformative experience … The hands-on activities, insightful lectures and passionate mentors made the entire program not only educational, but also deeply inspiring. It opened my eyes to the possibilities in medical science and strengthened my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. The Next Stepp camp exceeded all my expectations and left me more motivated than ever to make a difference in the world!”

Application process

The application window is currently closed.

By completing the application, you are tentatively reserving a spot for a student at the camp. Due to limited space, we will review applications and accept 30 students.

If accepted into the program, an email will be sent to both the student and guardian that includes a registration packet. Only one person needs to fill out the information and submit the packet by the deadline. After the packet has been processed, a confirmation will be sent to both emails letting you know your space in the summer program has been reserved.

Sample agenda

Day 1: Columbus State Community College

  • Welcome and introductions
  • History and ethics of clinical research
  • Biotech lab hands-on experience

Day 2: The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Jane E. Heminger Hall

  • Concept to launch of a clinical trial
  • Overview of consent
  • Tour of research space
  • Skills station and practice consent scenarios

Day 3: Nationwide Children’s Hospital

  • Keynote speaker
  • Overview of pediatric research
  • Prepare presentations

Day 4: Columbus State Community College

  • Careers in clinical research presentation
  • Panel discussion
  • Poster presentations
  • Ending celebration and certificates

Questions? Email Dr. Jessica Fritter by clicking here.