July 20, 2016
Medical beginnings Learn & Play
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Photo courtesy Colette McLemore Students participating in the St. Louis University School of Medicine Summer Scholars Program sit and wait head over to SLU admissions for a presentation and tour. Sitting on the ground are (from left) Aliah Williams (Hazelwood Central), Jayla Perry (Hazelwood Central), Andrew Bolstad (Lutheran North), Nia Young-El (Hazelwood Central), Raevynn Carter (Incarnate Word) and Emma Kilcoyne (Nerinx Hall).
St. Louis University School of Medicine Summer Scholars Program gives high schoolers a jump on health careers
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By Sara Hardin The medical field boasts millions of individuals who began cultivating their dreams from as early as childhood, individuals who dreamt of donning scrubs to work and dedicating their lives to serving others. This summer 25 accomplished high school students with these same ambitious prospects were admitted to St. Louis University School of Medicine Summer Scholars Program, where they met with physicians, professors, nurses and other mentors from the medical field to help pave the first steps of their careers in healthcare. “This is an opportunity for students from all types of backgrounds to gain exposure to health careers,” said Colette McLemore, Director of Diversity Operations for SLU. “Students who participate in the Summer Scholars program are given access to information on planning a medical education while taking part in hands-on training.” The three-week program took place this summer from June 6-24. Students in grades 10-12 who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine are eligible to apply each year. The pool of candidates is narrowed down to the most outstanding 25 students, who then are provided with invaluable resources including insight from medical profes-
sionals, interviewing techniques and advice on how to succeed as a student with a pre-med major. The program’s lack of any fees ensures that the students who participate are chosen on merit rather than the ability to pay. “Summer Scholars is one of the only free programs offered by SLU,” said McLemore. “Any student who wants to practice medicine should be encouraged to do so, regardless of their background.” Along with the application and a letter of recommendation from a school teacher or counselor, students who apply are required to submit a personal statement on why they’re interested in the program and why they plan to pursue a career in medicine. For Hazelwood Central High School senior Nia Young-El, the main motivation to become a doctor came from her single mother’s selflessness in raising her. “I love to help people,” said YoungEl, who participated in the Summer Scholars program this June. “I want to become a doctor as a way to pay it forward to my mom. I saw my mom making sacrifices for me, and helping those less fortunate. That is what inspired me to learn more about family medicine.” To put their skills to the test, participating students conduct research proj-
ects and present their findings to their peers and families at the close of the program. They are awarded with a certificate of completion, and at the end of the three weeks are able to exit Summer Scholars with a foundation of advice to dive into the medical field. Applications for Summer Scholars go out every January and are due by the end of March or early April with no extended deadline. To find out more, visit www.slu.edu.
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