High School STEM Outreach

Partnering with St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School

Project Overview
maxSIMhealth Laboratory, the leader in the development of the STEPS program, is excited to partner with St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School and its dynamic STEM club, "STEM Dynamic." Together, we aim to inspire high school students by introducing them to the world of simulation technologies and their applications in healthcare through a series of engaging, hands-on workshops and mentorship opportunities.

Purpose
The project’s primary goal is to spark an interest in STEM by demonstrating how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics can be used in real-world healthcare scenarios. We also aim to address and change negative perceptions of STEM fields, offering students a supportive environment where they can learn and grow within a community of like-minded peers.

Activities
Our workshops, designed to align with the STEPS program, focus on providing high school students with:

• Hands-on simulation experiences, such as virtual surgery and trauma simulations, highlighting how STEM principles are integrated into healthcare.

• Mentorship and tutoring led by experts in simulation and health sciences, bridging the gap between classroom learning and career opportunities.

• Team-building exercises that encourage collaborative problem-solving and group dynamics.

• Guest speaker sessions featuring professionals in simulation technology, offering insights into the academic and career paths available in STEM and healthcare.

Who’s Involved?
Leading this project on the maxSIMhealth side is Julia Micallef, a PhD student, with funding provided by the Dean's Allocation for Graduate Student Support. On the high school side, Keona Nwozor and Ellie Levert, two dedicated students from St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School, will lead their peers under the guidance of their teacher supervisor, Mr. McPhee. This partnership brings together passionate individuals from both sides to ensure the success of the program and to create a thriving STEM community.

Impact
By immersing students in the cutting-edge world of simulation technology, this initiative not only introduces them to the potential of STEM but also opens doors to future educational and career opportunities. Our long-term vision is to foster a seamless pathway from high school engagement to undergraduate programs like the STEPS program, nurturing the next generation of simulation and healthcare professionals.

Project Team

Keona Nwozor                     Ellie Levert