Too often, students learn about the wonders of science and medicine by reading textbooks rather than getting hands-on experiences that pique their curiosity and intellect. In an effort to spark student interest in science and medicine careers, local universities, healthcare organizations, private companies, and research centers in and around the Shady Grove Life Sciences Center hosted lab tours and interactive activities for student as part of the tenth annual Frontiers in Science and Medicine Day on Friday, November 9th.
More than 600 students from Briggs Chaney and Banneker Middle Schools participated in science and medicine activities at the Universities at Shady Grove. The on-site activities were conducted by students enrolled in the Salisbury University Exercise Science programs. The hands-on activities were conducted by students from University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP) Biological Sciences program and scientist from IBBR and NIST.
The Exercise Science activities included how to help rehabilitate someone with an injury. Including working with their balance, rotation, and strength building. Students were able to try the different exercises mimicking what it would be like for an elderly patient or a recovering athlete. In addition to the real-world activities, students had the opportunity to spend time in local laboratories; experiencing first-hand what scientists do each day.
“It is inspiring to see students learning from these hands-on experiences in science and medicine. It is exciting to know that the interest generated by this day will grow into the pursuit of further education and help energize our community’s next generation of science and healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Stewart Edelstein, Executive Director, Universities at Shady Grove.