Summer Hiring Pilot (2022-2024)

Thank you to all who applied for, facilitated, and participated in Decency’s three-year cross-disciplinary summer hiring pilot.

The goal of this program was to introduce trainees in different disciplines to new aspects of healthcare: In 2022, Decency helped a published economics graduate prepare for law school with healthcare hypotheticals; in 2023, a pharmacology student researched laws and analyzed court decisions; and in 2024, an undergraduate engineering student and hospital volunteer diagramed flows of money and patients through the healthcare system.

Was the program a success? Absolutely. Each student enjoyed the benefits of a flexible schedule and generous pay, while having a chance to share existing expertise and develop new and unfamiliar skills in a low-pressure setting.

What would it take to continue the program? Two factors stand out. First, funding. Every summer, Decency compensated its interns at a rate of $18/hour, and the ideal would be to maintain that standard. (If you are interested in funding future summer hiring, please feel welcome to get in touch at asuuberg@havesomedecency.org.)

Related to the first factor, given the investment Decency makes in its interns, finding the right fit is crucial. Prospective participants need to demonstrate a serious interest in healthcare, so that they bring relevant knowledge and skills to the company and learn something valuable from the program.

You can read more about the 2025 decision to pause summer hiring here.

What form might hiring take in the future? If the 2022-2024 model could be revived and continued in future years, that would be terrific. In the meantime, Decency continues to explore other possibilities, including a less structured, uncompensated mentorship model.

Please keep an eye on the company’s website and newsletter for updates.