On Tuesday, January 25, students from La Joya ISD's Academy of Health Science Professions-STEM (AHSP-STEM) campus took part in an all-day conference that focused on exposing students to various career options in the medical field. The conference, which was held in conjunction with Doctors Hospital at Renaissance’s Health Institute for Research and Development and the PATHS 4 Project through Region One ESC, was aimed at students who have their eyes set on a career in medicine.
Throughout the day students attended sessions that highlighted various work-based simulations in medicine. Some of those sessions included, "A Day in the Life of an ER Physician," "Intubation of a Patient," and "Suturing Exercises." Doctors, Nurses, and other medical staff were on hand to share their own experiences in their career, and offer advice to the students. Additionally, students received information about which colleges provide the best programs of study to help them achieve their goals.
Students who attend AHSP-STEM have made the decision in high school to focus on a career in or around the medical field. They go through rigorous curriculum that focuses on the medical field, and are exposed to real-life experiences through various business and educational partnerships. According to LeAnn Alaniz-Herrera, principal at AHSP-STEM, conferences like this one offer priceless opportunities to students.
"This was a great opportunity for our students to go to the actual job site and ask questions and learn from individuals who are in the industry. They are exposed to actual real-life scenarios and stories from individuals who work there and can offer their learning experiences to our students.”
Students were encouraged to ask questions and participate in discussions with staff.
"Our students have been learning how to take a patient's vitals in their health science classes, and they had an opportunity to apply what they have been learning in the classroom on a real-life simulation mannequin at the conference. They loved it and they learned so much!" said Liana Torres-Garcia, Assistant Principal at AHSP-STEM.
Students will take part in another PATHS 4 Project Conference next month at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. There, students will have the opportunity to learn and work with other students from neighboring school districts, as well as medical personnel. On behalf of La Joya ISD, thank you PATHS Project-Region One ESC and DHR for offering and hosting this innovative learning opportunity!