Baylor College of Medicine is committed to developing the next generation of medical and science professionals through its partnerships with local and state secondary schools. Each year, the College reinforces this dedication by bringing Houston area magnet school students to campus to experience what it’s like to train or work in the health professions.
This spring, it was the turn for three local schools to visit campus – Stafford STEM Magnet Academy, Baylor College of Medicine Academy at James D. Ryan Middle School and Baylor College of Medicine Biotech Academy at Rusk. For Stafford, Baylor’s newest partner magnet school, the open house marked its first group of students to visit campus.
Baylor College of Medicine Academy at James D. Ryan Middle School
The schools all feature STEM-focused curriculum developed in partnership between the districts and Baylor’s Center for Educational Outreach. The tours bolster their curriculum and provide a glimpse into life at Baylor.
The Stafford students were welcomed by Dr. James McDeavitt, executive vice president and dean of clinical affairs, and Dr. Nancy Moreno, chair of the Department of Education, Innovation and Technology and director of the Center for Educational Outreach. Then they heard from Dr. Cedric Dark, associate professor of emergency medicine, on the importance of education.
Dark told the students that education is a powerful weapon. He said students should learn about science but balance that education by also learning about faith and morals. Dark has melded what he has learned in his medical career with his core values by fighting to improve access to healthcare for all people.
“That’s what drives me, and it’s important for you to figure out what drives you. Teachers can only take you so far – you have to also figure out your passion,” he said.
Students broke into groups for hands-on demonstrations on anatomy, the capabilities of the Human Genome Sequencing Center, a look at zebra fish research and space medicine and a tour of the orthotics and prosthetics lab.
The Ryan and Rusk students experienced similar open houses, plus heard from a panel of Baylor students and trainees. Next up, Baylor will host ninth grade students from The Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions in the fall.
By Dana Benson
BCM Family 