Learning to Lead Through Healthcare

Wednesday's program immersed the Middle School Jumpstart interns in the world of healthcare and public health, giving students the opportunity to strengthen their critical thinking, collaboration, and decision-making skills through hands-on learning experiences. Throughout the day, interns explored how medical professionals diagnose patients, how communities work together to improve public health.

The morning began with an interactive patient diagnostic activity where interns stepped into the role of healthcare professionals. Working in teams, students analyzed patient symptoms, reviewed medical histories, and asked thoughtful questions to determine possible diagnoses. As they evaluated evidence and ruled out different conditions, interns discovered that successful medical decision-making requires careful observation, effective communication, and teamwork. Students learned to ask right questions, and consider multiple perspectives before reaching a conclusion, and build trust, skills that extend far beyond the healthcare field.

Students also learned about local public health initiatives and the many ways organizations work to improve the health and well-being of their communities. Through discussions and interactive activities, interns explored topics such as disease prevention, maternal care, and clean water. Students gained a deeper understanding of how public health professionals address challenges before they become larger problems and how collaboration across organizations helps create healthier communities for everyone.

Before lunchtime, interns worked on their presentations for their business partners. During these conversations, students updated on their projects, asked thoughtful questions, and received valuable feedback from professionals who are supporting their work throughout the program. The activities prior gave valuable insight into how to improve their presentations, consider community impact, and ask valuable questions.