Purdue Science Bound program to help veterinary students
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Students from Crispus Attucks Medical Magnet High School in Indianapolis who want to study veterinary medicine have a new opportunity thanks to a partnership with Purdue University.
"The field of veterinary medicine is facing a shortage of professionals, as well as a lack of diversity, and we want to see more young people from different backgrounds interested in veterinary-related careers such as animal health care and public health," says Willie M. Reed, dean of Purdue's School of Veterinary Medicine. "We will be partnering with Purdue's Science Bound program to help mentor and support these students."
Science Bound, which started in 2002, mentors sixth- to 12th-grade Indianapolis Public Schools students and encourages them to take classes in preparation for future careers in science, engineering, technology, agriculture and math-science education. Upon acceptance to Purdue, Science Bound students receive a full four-year tuition scholarship to study in an approved technical field. The program also is supported by the Indianapolis business community.
The veterinary medicine component of the program, called Purdue Veterinary Medicine Bound, would support those who are given early admission to the Purdue School of Veterinary Medicine through the Access to Animal-Related Careers Scholar's Program. The students would receive extended full-tuition scholarships to complete the program. The number of scholarships awarded each year will depend on available funding, and students willing to work in underserved areas of the state will be given preference for scholarships.
The new program was announced Tuesday (Dec. 7) at the high school as part of the launch of its new Alpha Chapter of the Boiler Vet Club.
"This is the first chapter of Purdue's Boiler Vet Club, which has nearly 200 members nationally, and we will work closely with these students to encourage their interest in veterinary medicine by working with Purdue faculty and students," says Sandy Amass, professor of veterinary clinical sciences and associate dean for engagement. "These students also will be encouraged to apply for the summer Boiler Vet Camp program where they can spend time at the veterinary school learning in classes, lectures and labs."
For example, Purdue in partnership with the Indiana Veterinary Medical Association, will help connect students seeking internships and practical experience with Indianapolis veterinarians.
"Crispus Attucks supports a college culture at our school, and the partnership with Purdue is not only helping students connect with professionals, but also is actually helping our students work toward becoming veterinarians," says Marty Weyand, magnet coordinator at Crispus Attucks.
Purdue also is offering an online course for these high school students.
Science Bound, which started with 60 students, has grown to more than 250 middle and high school students who participate in after-school activities, field trips and summer camps to enrich their academic experience. The first graduates of the program will receive their diplomas from Purdue in the spring of 2011, said Wesley Campbell, director of Science Bound.
"The goal of this program is to help prepare students who are interested in careers in science, engineering, agriculture and technology so they achieve success in their academic goals," Campbell says. "We are pleased to be expanding the program to reach even more students."
Writer: Amy Patterson Neubert, 765-494-9723, apatterson@purdue.edu
Sources: Willie Reed, 765-494-7608, wreed@purdue.edu
Sandy Amass, 765-494-8052, amasss@purdue.edu
Wesley Campbell, 765-494-0018, wesleyl@purdue.edu