DETROIT — Applications are being accepted now through April 15 from Detroit public and charter school minority sophomores and juniors to participate in the 2008 Oncology Nurse Mentorship Program at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.

The Oncology Nurse Mentorship Program, a cooperative effort between the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and the Detroit Public Schools and funded by United Way for Southeastern Michigan, was developed to increase the number of minority youth interested in pursuing oncology nursing careers.

Each year, six students are selected from the pool of applicants to participate in the six-week, Monday through Thursday introduction to oncology nursing.  This provides exposure to all aspects of oncology nursing through visits to areas of the hospital, job shadowing and presentations by oncology nurses.  The students learn about the history of nursing, basic cancer information and are taught key nursing skills.  As part of the program, area colleges and universities present their college admission policies, financial aid and other resources to mentees to encourage them to attend college for oncology nursing.

“This exciting and fun program is a unique opportunity that most nurses wished they had at this age,” said Kelly Brittain, R.N., M.S.N., director of Community and Supportive Services at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.  “The students learn valuable information and are exposed to numerous opportunities they otherwise would not have at this age.”

Each student is assigned a mentor to meet with on a regular basis to learn about oncology nursing from a more personal exposure.  After the program is over, the mentor and mentee are able to stay in contact, if they desire.

The program begins Monday, June 16 and ends Thursday, July 24.

The applicants will be selected based on the following criteria: overall scholastic average, recommendation forms completed by two high school teachers that address the student’s effort and dedication in school, a 200 word essay and for the final screening, an oral interview, if selected.

For an application or more information, call 1-800-KARMANOS and ask for the Community and Supportive Services department or visit www.karmanos.org.

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of 39 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States. Caring for more than 6,000 new patients annually on a budget of $216 million, conducting more than 700 cancer-specific scientific investigation programs and clinical trials, the Karmanos Cancer Institute is among the nation’s best cancer centers. Through the commitment of 1,000 staff, including nearly 300 faculty members, and supported by thousands of volunteer and financial donors, the Institute strives to prevent, detect and eradicate all forms of cancer.  John C. Ruckdeschel, M.D., is the Institute’s president and chief executive officer.  For more information call 1-800-KARMANOS or go to www.karmanos.org.