Story and photo by Aubrey Grasz
GCU News Bureau
Grand Canyon University students hoping to pursue medical careers packed a classroom Wednesday night to hear from professionals in careers ranging from dental work to plastic surgery to medical social work.
Six panelists from Gamma Mu Educational Services shared why they became interested in the medical field and talked about career opportunities, applying for medical school and how they make a difference through their work. It was the latest installment of the Provost Speaker Series, a collaboration of the Academic and Career Excellence Centers (ACE), Multicultural Office and Honors College to connect students to professionals in their desired fields of work.
The panelists emphasized that medical schools are looking for well-rounded applicants. Students were encouraged to branch out from their traditional science and math classes to explore additional learning opportunities in areas such as the arts and social sciences. Students who acquire a variety of skills may be able to explore a wider range of career paths.
Panelist Raymond Burden sought to encourage the students: “Whichever way you’re headed in your medical career, you’re not making a bad decision.”
Senior biology major Riley Davis is Vice President of the Pre-Pharmacy Club and plans to attend pharmacy school. “It was a personal experience to be able to go and talk to health care professionals ... the personal aspect of GCU is what makes it so great,” Davis said.
The next Provost Speaker Series event, titled "Pathways to Legal Professions," is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Nov. 6 in the Engineering Building, Room 230, and will be for students interested in careers such as law, law enforcement, politics and business law. No RSVP is required, and light refreshments will be provided.
