SMU Students Mentor At-Risk Teens about Pursuing a Career in Healthcare

For the next five weeks, several Samuel Merritt University podiatric students have volunteered to tutor more than three dozen middle and high school students from the Oakland Unified School District area about basic vital signs, diabetes, and healthy living. The program, called Youth in Medicine, allows at-risk students between the age of 11-15 to have an up-close look at how simulation-based education, human anatomy with lab, and clinical skills are integrated into academic programs at the University.

Nishi Singh, a second-year DPM student, says working with the teens and explaining about anatomy, podiatry, histology, and operating room situations allows her to practice her communications and teaching skills. "Many of us can relate to these kids and their background," says Singh. "They are all very intelligent and curious about what has led us to study podiatric medicine. I know by exposing them to all of this at their young age, we are having a positive impact."