Farmington High School student Ava Obenauer recently attended the prestigious Mizzou Mini Med School, an experience that has significantly influenced her aspirations in the medical field. Here, Ava shares her journey, from the initial application to the invaluable experiences she gained.
Ava’s fascination with medicine began in childhood, inspired by her grandfather and aunt, both medical physicians. She learned about the Mini Med School through her aunt, a pediatric cardiologist, who discovered the program via a colleague’s Facebook post. This sparked Ava’s application process. The application process was rigorous, requiring a 200-word essay, an official transcript, a science teacher recommendation, and answers to various questions about her interest in medicine. When Ava received her acceptance letter, she was ecstatic and eagerly anticipated meeting her roommate and participating in the program’s activities.
The Simulation labs stood out among the many memorable experiences at the Mini Med School. Ava and her Problem-Based Learning (PBL) group engaged in hands-on learning, practicing bedside manners, routine checkups, CPR, intubation, IV insertion, and childbirth. The high-tech mannequins used in these simulations provided realistic practice scenarios, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The PBL sessions were pivotal to Ava’s understanding of medical education. Working on real-life cases collaboratively allowed her to think critically and learn from her peers. This hands-on approach, unique to Mizzou, significantly boosted Ava’s interest in the school.
Ava attended lectures by various specialists, including a cardiologist, oncologist, microbiologist, neurosurgeon, rheumatologist, ER doctor, and plastic surgeon. The oncologist's lecture on CAR T-Cell Therapy and the plastic surgery session was particularly impactful, providing deep insights into cutting-edge medical treatments and the complexities of trauma care. Ava found the suture and laparoscopic simulation labs challenging yet rewarding. Despite initially lacking knowledge about sutures, she embraced the learning opportunity. The laparoscopic surgery simulation tested her depth perception and coordination, highlighting the challenges of this precise medical procedure. Interactions with current medical students, faculty, and staff were influential. Ava’s second-year medical student counselor provided invaluable guidance and support. Lecturers and panel members also offered reassuring advice about the long educational journey to becoming a physician, encouraging Ava to take it step-by-step.
Seminars on college and medical school applications were enlightening. Ava learned the importance of volunteering, shadowing physicians, and maintaining good grades. The Bryant Scholars Program for rural students particularly caught her attention as a potential opportunity. Social activities like pool parties, trivia nights, and field games helped Ava form lasting bonds with her PBL group. These experiences excited her for the social aspects of college and medical school. The Mini Med School pushed Ava out of her comfort zone, helping her grow personally and academically. Despite initial nervousness about being away from home, she made new friends and gained a deeper understanding of the medical field.
Attending the Mini Med School solidified Ava’s decision to pursue a career as a surgeon and influenced her college choice, making Mizzou her top pick. She realized she didn’t need to decide on a specialty immediately, as the medical school would provide ample time to explore different fields. Ava wholeheartedly recommends the Mizzou Mini Med School to any student interested in medicine. She highlights the program's value, even for those not in a specialized high school program like Bio-Med. The diverse backgrounds of participants provided a rich learning environment, making the experience invaluable. Ava Obenauer’s journey through the Mizzou Mini Med School is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and mentorship in shaping future medical professionals. Her experiences and insights will undoubtedly inspire other Farmington High School students to pursue their dreams in the medical field.