Inspiring the Next Generation of Cancer Fighters: A Groundbreaking Program at Sheldon High School
A bold statement to capture attention:
In a unique and inspiring initiative, Sheldon High School in Sacramento is revolutionizing the way students learn about cancer. By bringing experts from UC Davis Health into the classroom, the school is fostering a new generation of cancer fighters and healthcare professionals.
The program overview:
The Cancer Research Immersion Academy, a groundbreaking partnership between UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento State, and the Elk Grove Unified School District, offers high school students a hands-on, immersive experience in cancer research and healthcare careers. The program aims to inspire and empower young minds to envision a future where they can make a real difference in the fight against cancer.
From curiosity to confidence:
Each week, over 60 junior-level microbiology students at Sheldon High School delve into the science of cancer. They examine cancer cells under microscopes, explore the impact of DNA on cell behavior and cancer risk, and engage directly with professionals from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center. The format, which Kirsten Asher, the cancer center's Office of Education, Training and Workforce Development, calls 'speed networking', allows students to meet with experts in small groups for 15-minute Q&A sessions, sparking curiosity and helping them discover their most exciting career paths.
Exploring the breadth of careers:
The professionals who participated in the program included researchers, pharmacists, data and compliance experts, health educators, and a cancer center marketing specialist. The students asked a variety of questions, from the time it takes to analyze a tumor to the free time researchers have. The interactions did what they were supposed to do: spark curiosity and help students discover which careers excite them most.
Real scientists, real stories:
One of the visiting experts, UC Davis cancer biologist Diedre Reitz, shared how she studies genetic mutations in tumor cells using donated tissue samples. Student Ava Allen was fascinated to learn that Reitz can begin analyzing a tumor the same day she receives it, with results in about two weeks. Reitz was pleased to participate in the classroom, hoping to show high school students that you don't have to be an M.D. to fight cancer.
Building bridges to the future:
The Cancer Research Immersion Academy is part of a broader effort to create a pipeline for future cancer care providers and researchers. Organizers hope the high school students will apply to UC Davis or Sacramento State after graduation. By integrating real-world, project-based learning into career technical education programs, the program helps students practice scientific research and communication, apply critical thinking and leadership skills, connect science to their personal experiences and communities, and explore pathways to college and careers in biomedical research.
