Medical Science Students Learn from Experts, Share Expertise
Source/Author: Rachel Barrett, Director of Marketing & Communications
November 21, 2019
On Thursday, November 21, more than 60 Upper School students arrived to campus a full hour before the first bell to learn from visiting physician Dr. Paul Pagano, an Orthopaedic Spine Specialist with All Florida Orthopaedics and Shorecrest parent. Dr. Pagano is one of a series of medical professionals to lend their expertise to students in the Upper School Pre Med Club and the Center for Medical Sciences applied sciences track.
Medical Sciences Director and Anatomy Teacher Lisa Peck says, "Every time someone comes in I learn just as much as the students!" Peck championed the creation of the Center for Medical Sciences in 2016.
Dr. Pagano shared his educational background and career path with the students, noting the various avenues aspiring physicians can take both before and after medical school. He shared X-rays of before and after surgery of patients with various conditions, explaining the diagnosis and treatment for each patient. Dr. Pagano brought a number of his tools of the trade and devices used during surgery. Students enjoyed the opportunity to see and handle equipment - like a tiny titanium screw - that appears simple but can enable ill or injured patients to regain their health and mobility.
Of the presentation, Samia Hossain '21 said, "Oh I loved it! It was so interesting to learn his experience and path and to see the real-life cases."
The physicians and staff at All Florida Orthopaedics have been extremely supportive and welcoming to Shorecrest students. The Upper School students look forward to the opportunity to shadow Dr. Pagano in surgery and during his office visits with patients in early 2020.
Just days before Dr. Pagano's visit Medical Science students got a turn to be guest experts themselves. The Upper Schoolers visited The Experiential School on Tuesday, November 19, to
to talk about ways to prevent the spread of harmful germs. They demonstrated proper handwashing techniques for the young Chargers, reminding them to make sure to get the back of your hands, your nail beds (where germs love to live), your palm and your thumbs. The budding medical experts also shared with their young peers that simple steps like covering your mouth and nose with your shirts when you cough or sneeze can prevent germs from spreading.
Some high schoolers also visited Lower School Town Meeting to share these important health lessons with students in kindergarten - fourth grade.
Some high schoolers also visited Lower School Town Meeting to share these important health lessons with students in kindergarten - fourth grade.
