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The Stanford Medical Youth Science Program: 18 years of a biomedical program for low-income high school students

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 29
Authors:
  • Winkleby MA
Summary:

A detailed analysis is provided of the Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP), a biomedical pipeline programme that seeks to diversify the health professions by providing academic enrichment in the medical sciences and college admissions support to very low-income high school students. Since its inception in 1988, 405 students have completed SMYSP and 96% have been observed for up to 18 years. The majority are from under-represented minority groups, many with poor academic preparation. This report highlights the extremely successful components of this programme that have enabled the students to succeed and prepared them for medical and other careers.

Comment:
This paper reviews the results of a programme over an impressive 18-year period. Importantly, the authors have been able to show success but note the need to track students for 10–15 years (as they have to graduate from high school, graduate from the undergraduate programme and then enrol and graduate from Medicine). The findings have important implications for recruitment funding models in New Zealand (such as what else can be provided and funded for) and highlight the importance of the integration of secondary schools and tertiary/university institutions for recruitment.
Reference: Acad Med. 2007;82(2):139-45.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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