On August 13-14, 2024, the Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences at Duke University partnered with the Duke BOOST (Building Opportunities and Overtures in Science and Technology) program to host a transformative Science Immersion event. This initiative aimed to inspire and educate middle school students from Durham Public Schools, providing them invaluable exposure to various healthcare professions.
Engaging with Health Professionals
The involvement of health professionals in the BOOST Science Program Immersion experience plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic and career aspirations of the participating BOOST Scholars. By interacting with professionals from fields such as otolaryngology, speech-language pathology, audiology, and nursing, students gained firsthand insight into the real-world applications of these disciplines. This engagement not only demystified these careers but also provided students with inspiring role models.
Broadening Horizons
Health professionals brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the event, enriching the students’ understanding of the interconnectedness of different healthcare disciplines. Through learning about the diverse roles within the healthcare system, BOOST scholars could appreciate how each profession contributes to patient care, health innovation, and overall well-being. This comprehensive exposure is particularly impactful for students from underrepresented backgrounds, broadening their awareness of career possibilities they may not have previously considered.
Cultivating Future Leaders
The engagement of health professionals in the BOOST Science Program is instrumental in cultivating a diverse pipeline of future healthcare leaders. By providing students with role models and real-world experiences, the program helps to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals who will bring fresh perspectives and drive progress in medicine and science.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks go to the dedicated professionals who participated in the event: Dr. Joshua Wright and Dr. Monica Ogunsusi (HNS&CS residents); Dr. Eileen Raynor (Chief of Pediatric Otolaryngology); speech-language pathologists Dina Vallabh, CCC-SLP, Cindy Murashima, CCC-SLP, Rudy Hernandez-Baez, CCC-SLP, Amanda Testino, CCC-SLP, and Brian Bachhi, CCC-SLP; clinical staff Marci Leifson, RN, Susan Bell, CMA; audiologist Dr. Doug Garrison, and Alexandra Valladares & Douglass Coleman from BOOST, who organized the event.
About BOOST
BOOST serves middle school students from Durham Public Schools and invites high school and college alumni to accompany these students at events and serve as peer mentors. This program is dedicated to building opportunities and overtures in science and technology and fostering a love for learning and exploration in young minds.
The Duke BOOST Science Immersion event exemplifies the power of collaboration between educational institutions and healthcare professionals in shaping the future of medicine and science. By investing in the aspirations of young students, we pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future in healthcare.