Benefits for the Nation
If this study confirms our hypothesis and proves to interest
under-represented minorities in the health professions, then, it may
be possible to infuse elements from this idea into school systems
throughout the nation. Eventually the entire health care industry may
reflect the ethnic balance of American society. Initially, seed money
and awareness would be required but full implementation would be cost
effective for the educational system and the community in the long
run.
The educational elements within this program are not new. Each
educational concept has been tried in many cases and found to be
effective. Service learning and alternative schedules with career
strands are actively discussed within educational circles and have
all been found to have major educational advantages. To our
awareness, however, these elements have not been combined in a
longitudinal setting that has a practical community goal. This
program provides that. If successful, students can be producers and
contributors to society instead of consumers using valuable
resources. This model could be applied in many fields and may shift
attitudes in both youth and adult populations. This educational
construct honors the potential of students by including them into and
giving them responsibility for some aspect of the society. If done
properly, students may rise to meet this responsibility and feel
honored to have the trust and opportunity. They will make us proud of
our future. How much value and benefit will we derive from this?
page created by B. Hays and L. Shumer, SEPA Grant, San Diego. Revised
summer 2001