MCHC/RISE-UP Frequently Asked Questions

What is MCHC/RISE-UP?

Maternal Child Health Careers/Research Initiative for Student Enhancement Undergraduate Program (MCHC/RISE-UP) is a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funded10-week summer program providing public health and related training to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity to junior, senior and recent baccalaureate degree students from underrepresented groups.  A recent baccalaureate degree student is an individual who graduated within 12 calendar months prior to the start of the MCHC/RISE-UP orientation. 

I am not an underrepresented student.  Can I apply to the MCHC/RISE-UP program?

All students interested in working in health disparities are welcome to apply.

Can international students participate in the MCHC/RISE-UP program?

MCHC/RISE-UP is a federal program for U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and permanent residents.  International students (i.e., students with F1 or K1 visa) are not eligible.

Can rising juniors apply to the MCHC/RISE-UP program?

Rising juniors can apply the MCHC/RISE-UP program.

Can graduate students participate in the MCHC/RISE-UP program?

Graduate students cannot participate in the MCHC/RISE-UP program.  The program is for junior, senior and recent baccalaureate degree students from underrepresented groups.  A recent baccalaureate degree student is an individual who graduated within 12 calendar months prior to the start of the MCHC/RISE-UP orientation.

What are the dates of the program?

The MCHC/RISE-UP program begins with Orientation on May 27 through May 31, 2013. Following Orientation, the Kennedy Krieger Institute and University of South Dakota sites will continue their programs until August 2, 2013.  Due to the graduation and finals’schedule, The University of Southern California site will begin on June 17^th and continue until August 16^th. 

What are the program goals of MCHC/RISE-UP?

The goals of the MCHC/RISE-UP program are to expose undergraduate junior, senior and recent baccalaureate degree students to the field of public health and provide academic/career development support.

What are the three program tracks offered to students?

Students can select up to two of the following program tracks.

Program Tracks:

1. Community Engagement and Advocacy Track: Students work with professionals in developmental disabilities, public health, and related systems on forming, implementing, and evaluating health care and disability legislation, regulations, and practice guidelines. The critical importance of engaging underrepresented communities is particularly emphasized.
2. Clinical Track: Students rotate through clinical experiences provided by Maternal and Child Health disciplines (pediatrics, psychiatry, neurology, physiatry, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, social work, psychology, speech/language, special education, and nursing). In addition, students gain experience in providing community-based healthcare and community support systems for underserved groups.
3. Research Track: Students work with research mentors on a wide range of public health, prevention, treatment, and epidemiological studies. Students receive training in community-based participatory research, which engages communities that are currently underserved by mainstream systems.

What are typical tasks of each program track?

1. Community Engagement and Advocacy:
   • Conduct surveys in the community
   • Community observations of programs and activities
   • Public health program evaluation at the state or local government levels
2. Clinical:
   • Observe patient evaluation and treatment
   • Clean equipment in clinical disciplines
   • Assist clinical staff in patient care
3. Research Track:
   • Data entry for research projects
   • Literature review
   • Make telephone calls to confirm participant data
   • Analyze data from current and prior research projects

How many hours do students work during the week?

Students work a maximum of 40 hours per week.

Are students compensated for participating in MCHC/RISE-UP program?

Stipend amount is $3500 for the 10 week program. 

Are travel and housing costs taken out the stipend?

Travel and housing costs are not taken out of the stipend.

Are meals program sponsored?

Breakfast and lunch are program sponsored during the Baltimore orientation.  Breakfast lunch, and dinner are program sponsored during the CDC public health seminar.  No other meals are program sponsored.

Can students without health insurance apply to the MCHC/RISE-UP program?

Students without health insurance can apply to the MCHC/RISE-UP program.  All accepted students must have health insurance.

Who can write my recommendation letters?

Recommendation letters from your professor, clinical advisor, or research advisor are acceptable. 

Who should recommendation letters be addressed to?

Please address recommendation letters to the MCHC/RISE-UP Selection Committee.

Is there a standard recommendation form to complete?

No there is not a standard recommendation form to complete.

Can I submit an unofficial transcript instead of an official transcript?

Unofficial transcripts are not accepted.  Applications without an official undergraduate transcript will not be considered.

Are references for essays included in the word count?

References are not included in the word count.

Where can more information on the MCHC/RISE-UP program be found?

Please visit MCHC/RISE-UP website for more information.  The URL is http://www.kennedykrieger.org/RISE-UP.

Where are MCHC/RISE-UP application?

Interested students can apply online at http://www.kennedykrieger.org/RISE-UP.

I submitted an application.  When should I expect a decision letter?

Decision letters are sent the end of March.

All program activities are contingent on CDC funding.

Address additional questions to:

Jenese McFadden, MS, MBA
Program Coordinator
MCHC-RISE-UP@kennedykrieger.org