VolunTeen Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Who is eligible?

Eligible students include:

• Students who will be in 11th grade next school year
• Students who will be in 12th grade next school year
• Current 12th graders who will graduate in May before the program begins
• Students who will be at least 16 years old before June 1, 2026

Does every applicant automatically get a VolunTeen position?

• Our program is committed to selecting the most suitable VolunTeens for our summer program. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that not all applicants can be placed.

Are there other ways to volunteer as a high school student?

• The VolunTeen Program is the primary pathway for high school students to volunteer with the hospital. Students must complete the VolunTeen Program before volunteering onsite or assisting with offsite camps. The only external volunteer opportunity available to high school students outside of the program is Fantasy of Trees. Learn more about volunteering at Fantasy of Trees.

Once accepted into the VolunTeen Program, can I volunteer during the school year?

• The summer VolunTeen Program is the first step in getting involved at the hospital. After completing the summer program, you become eligible for additional opportunities throughout the school year, including volunteering during school breaks, participating in exclusive VolunTeen events, and helping with special projects during the holiday season.

Is there a cost to becoming a VolunTeen?

• Yes, we require a $35 commitment fee, which will cover the VolunTeen polo or camp t-shirt, badge and lanyard, snacks, a keepsake item, and other applicable materials. We also provide free parking to all VolunTeens. We do not want finances to prevent any student from participating—if the fee is a barrier, it can be waived.

Is this a shadowing or medical exploration program?

• Our VolunTeen Program is not designed for shadowing or medical exploration. While you may work alongside medical staff in certain service areas, such as Child Life Specialists, to provide comprehensive care and services to our patients, you will not be shadowing them. Our VolunTeens are focused on meeting the needs of patients and families during their service.

What documents do we require for students?

• To keep the onboarding process simple, we require students to upload proof of their two-part MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) immunization series as part of the application for the summer program. Students who choose to volunteer during the holiday season must also obtain a flu vaccine. If a student has received the COVID-19 vaccine, they are welcome to upload documentation, although it is not required. Other required documents will be shared during the interview and orientation sessions.

Is the interview and orientation virtual or in-person?

• Both the interview and orientation are in-person. We do not offer virtual options.

How can I prepare for the interview?

• The interview is an opportunity for us to learn more about you—and for you to learn more about the program. Feel free to ask questions. This is also your chance to share anything not included in your application or expand on areas you want us to know more about. We want to understand who you are as an individual, a student, and a leader within your community.
•  Each applicant will participate in two one-on-one interviews. Questions may touch on your application, availability, interests, goals, leadership style, and school or community involvement.

How do we make our selections?

• After the interview, we conduct a comprehensive review. A committee evaluates the strength of your application, previous experiences, references, availability, and interview performance. These factors are scored and used to guide admission decisions.
• The VolunTeen Program is committed to a fair and equitable selection process. We use a multi-reviewer approach to ensure balanced evaluations and maintain fairness. Selection decisions are made thoughtfully and without bias to provide equal opportunities for all applicants.

Where do I park?

• Hospital assignments: Summer program parking will be located at the Fort Sanders School on the corner of Clinch and 22nd.
• Camp assignments: Parking at camp locations will be directed by the Camp Directors and will be on camp property.

What is the dress code?

Hospital

• VolunTeen polo
• Scrub bottoms (navy or black) or an appropriate-length skirt
• Closed-toe shoes
• No facial piercings, denim, leggings, strong perfume, or gel/acrylic nails

Camps