The Johns Hopkins Medicine Brain and Spine Scholars Program (BSSP) is a free-of-cost summer education program for high school students that focuses on exploring careers in neuroscience. Presented by Johns Hopkins faculty members and trainees, the program consists of a five-day immersive learning and enrichment experience that includes hands-on science activities and lectures, as well as mentorship and networking opportunities.

2026 Program Information

• Date and time: July 27–31, 2026, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Location: The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore

What Our Program Offers

• Hands-on science activities, including sheep brain and cow heart dissections, hands-on bioengineering projects, and clinical workshops such as learning to suture and measure vital signs.
• Lectures covering fundamental biology, brain anatomy introduction to neurosurgery, and cutting-edge neuroscience discoveries, taught by scientists and medical professionals.
• Mentorship and networking opportunities to connect with faculty, researchers, medical doctors, graduate and medical students, and pre-med students for guidance and career insights.

Who Can Apply

• High school students with an interest in science or healthcare or a curiosity about neuroscience.
• No GPA or prior experience required — all students, regardless of academic or demographic background, are welcome to apply. In accordance with applicable law, race, ethnicity and other legally protected characteristics will not be considered in the selection process.
• Students interested in careers in science, health and medicine are especially encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Please check back for updates. An interest form will be posted when available.

Contact

If you have questions about this program, please contact the program co-founder and Johns Hopkins program lead, Yllka Valdez, at [email protected].