Gianna Meckler, a junior at Evansville Day School, has been selected for this summer’s Health Science Institute (HSI).  

This year is the 27th year of HSI. The two-week long program, sponsored by Deaconess Hospital and the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation, allows area high school students to experience medical careers first-hand, thereby helping them make informed career decisions in the future.

“I am beyond grateful to have been given the opportunity to attend the HSI program this summer, ” said Gianna, daughter of Jason and Gina Meckler.  “I know this will be a huge step forward on my path to becoming a physician.”

To be selected to HSI, students must be a sophomore or junior from the counties of Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, or Warrick and be a high-achieving science student. They must also have completed a minimum of one year of high school biology or honors physics and have a minimum 3.3 grade point average.

To apply, the students present an academic transcript, science teacher recommendation, 300-word essay, and complete an interview process. There were nearly three applicants for every spot available this year.    

HSI staff consists of certified teachers, health care professionals and/or HSI alumni. During the week, students will hear presentations from physicians and staff in emergency medicine, oncology, surgery, pediatrics, and other health care professions.  

They will also visit several local healthcare units including:

• Deaconess Hospital

• Deaconess Gateway Hospital

• The Women’s Hospital

• HealthSouth Deaconess Rehabilitation Hospital

• Deaconess Cross Pointe

• Deaconess Chancellor Center for Oncology

• USI Pott College of Science & Engineering

• IU School of Medicine - Evansville

• Vanderburgh County Coroner’s Office

Out-of-town field trips include:

• Purdue University: pharmacy and veterinary medicine, Envision Center

• Indiana University School of Medicine: pharmacology and toxicology

• Riley Hospital for Children: tour and presentations from physicians

• Eskenazi Health Complex: burn unit and level I trauma center

Students earn one semester of high school credit in advanced applied science by completing HSI course requirements and presenting a portfolio and oral presentation of their experiences.  

Evansville Day School is proud of Gianna for her hard work, dedication to health science, and selection for this program. We know she will continue on to great things in the healthcare industry. Day School is grateful for opportunities like HSI that align with our passion for helping students be successful in life beyond the classroom by fostering skills such as balance, resilience, global mindedness, and entrepreneurial learning.