CLEVELAND — Thirty one Cardinal Mooney High School seniors and juniors got a glimpse into the world of medical school recently, thanks to the efforts of alumna Shannon Reardon, a member of the Class of 2018 and current medical student at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OUHCOM).
The event was designed to provide Cardinal Mooney’s biomedical students with an in-depth look at the medical field, from the admissions process to hands-on clinical experience. Reardon, who helped coordinate the event, guided the students through an exciting day at OUHCOM, where they participated in various learning opportunities.
The day began with a session on medical school admissions, focusing on what it takes to get into medical school, the preparation required during high school, and an introduction to OUHCOM’s Early Assurance Program (EAP), which offers a pathway for students to secure a spot in medical school early.
Following the informational session, students were divided into small groups and led by current medical students and faculty members into the cadaver lab. There, they studied the brain and spinal cord in detail, learning about the anatomy and medical applications of these vital areas of the human body.
Next, the students made their way to the Clinical Training and Assessment Center (CTAC), where they participated in a simulated clinical experience. In the mock patient rooms, medical students took on the roles of patients, while Cardinal Mooney students performed clinical assessments, diagnosing conditions and developing treatment plans. The exercise was designed to build on the knowledge gained in the cadaver lab, giving students a real-world application of their learning.
Throughout the simulation, Miss Policy, a science teacher, observed the students’ progress from the “control center,” where she was able to watch and listen as the students interacted with their simulated patients.
The event offered students a valuable opportunity to explore the medical field up close and gain insight into what it takes to become a physician, while also strengthening their teamwork and problem-solving skills in a clinical setting. Thanks to Shannon Reardon and OUHCOM, Cardinal Mooney students left with a greater appreciation for the medical profession and the steps needed to pursue a career in healthcare.
