WISH Summer Volunteer Program

Applications are now open for the 2026 Summer Program!

Submit your application and personal statement via the portal below:

Application Portal

Application Deadline: April 20th

Program Details: Please note: Our program structure has changed from 2025.

Two-Week, Simulation Volunteering Intensive

  • Time Commitment: 4-6 Hours/Day; 2-3 Days/Week for 2 Weeks

  • Location(s): On-site WISH locations at Harborview, UWMC-Montlake, or UWMC-NW

  • Age Considerations:

    • WISH allows volunteers age 16+ for Montlake location, and 18+ for Harborview and NW facilities where biological specimen are in use.

    • If accepted, minors must be able to provide parental/guardian signature on their Volunteering Agreement forms.

Program Opportunities and Benefits:

  • Gain immersive first-hand experience in how healthcare professionals are trained using simulation science.

  • Acquire vital skills necessary for future careers in healthcare and healthcare education.

  • Opportunities to interact with a variety of clinical professions and specialties.

Volunteer Responsibilities Include:

  • Observing simulation activities.

  • Providing support during simulation activities (e.g., collecting completed checklists/forms, voicing a manikin-based patient, and/or serving as an embedded actor within a simulated training scenario).

  • Assisting simulation personnel with the set-up and take-down of simulation activities held in the WISH space.

  • Providing occasional support to WISH staff in the development of simulated materials (e.g., moulage, simulated fluids and tissues, etc.)

  • Assisting WISH staff and course facilitators in the assembly of course related materials.

  • Assisting onsite staff with the daily needs of the simulation center.

  • Cleaning, maintenance, and stocking/restocking various simulation equipment and supplies.

Eligibility and Qualifications:

  • Interest in the field of healthcare and/or healthcare simulation.

  • Physical ability to perform assignments and comfort working in a simulated medical environment.

  • Behavioral expectations include:

    • Professionalism in appearance and demeanor

    • Maturity

    • Self-motivation

    • Punctuality and commitment to working all assigned volunteering shifts

    • Willingness to perform tasks as requested and directed

    • Ability to work cooperatively with WISH staff and faculty members

    • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality regarding learner performance in the simulation space

Application Process:

  • Applications must include a brief personal statement (no more than 1 page in length).

    • Personal statements should describe the applicants interest in volunteering with the WISH program, and their goals for what they’re hoping to achieve through this work.

  • Following the submission deadline, eligible candidates will be contacted for a brief virtual interview with our Volunteer Committee.