Biomed at St. Luke's.
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As someone who is passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, I want to share an inside look at the incredible Biomedical Sciences Program here at St. Luke’s Episcopal School. This program, which is spearheaded by the amazing Mrs. Diane McCleery, is a true gem for students interested in science, healthcare, and innovation. Mrs. McCleery, a registered nurse with an impressive track record, has worked tirelessly to secure grants and resources that make this program so impactful.
A Diverse and Dynamic Curriculum
The Biomedical Sciences Program is part of our broader STEM+M initiative—Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine. From day one, students dive into a variety of classes designed to expose us to different aspects of healthcare and science. Some highlights include:
Innovations in STEM+M and Biomed:
A class where creativity meets practical problem-solving in areas of biomedical engineering.
Biomed Fundamental I and II:
A progressive series that builds foundational knowledge in medicine.
Culinary Medicine:
Where food meets health science.
Sports Medicine:
Perfect for those interested in athletic health.
Interventions in Biomed:
A hands-on experience focusing on specialty skills like suturing, emergency response, and understanding hospital codes.
Senior Year Capstone: The Ultimate Challenge
Senior year in the Biomedical Program is where everything comes together. In our capstone course, we complete a 25-page research paper and deliver a 5–7 minute presentation. These aren’t just academic exercises—they’re real-world preparation. Each senior is paired with a mentor and completes at least four job shadowing experiences, although many of us go beyond the minimum.
The mentorship and job shadowing experiences are invaluable. They give us a chance to see what life in the medical field is really like and help us decide if this is the right path for us.
Trauma Week: Learning Under Pressure
One of the most exciting and intense parts of the program is Trauma Week, which takes place right after Thanksgiving. Each year, a realistic medical scenario kicks off the week, such as a pool drowning, a tib-fib fracture during a football game, or even a chemical bomb at a concert. Over the next few days, guest speakers guide us through the treatment process step-by-step. It’s an adrenaline-filled week that teaches us how to think and act under pressure.
Forensic Week: Crime Scene Investigation Meets Medicine
For those interested in the intersection of law and medicine, Forensic Week is a favorite. We learn from lawyers, deputies, and forensic experts while solving simulated crime scenes. Past scenarios have included car accidents, homicides, and courtroom trials. It’s fascinating to see how medical knowledge applies to the world of law enforcement.
Real-World Skills and College Prep
The Interventions class is another standout. It’s designed to mimic a college-level course, complete with weekly agendas, deadlines, and independent research projects. Students choose a medical specialty to focus on, create presentations and pamphlets, and even teach their peers how to perform a procedure related to their specialty.
To top it all off, we take field trips to places like the University of South Alabama’s biomedical library and participate in simulations such as Friday Night at the Emergency Room, where teams manage a hospital during a high-pressure 24-hour cycle.
A Testament to Leadership
None of this would be possible without Mrs. McCleery’s vision and dedication. She has created a program that prepares us not only for college but also for life in the medical field. As Avery, one of my classmates, said, “We’ve been waiting three years to get this far, and we’ve been prepared every step of the way.”
The Biomedical Sciences Program at St. Luke’s is more than just a collection of classes—it’s a launchpad for future medical professionals. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I know that the skills, experiences, and confidence I’ve gained here will stay with me forever. Thank you, Mrs. McCleery, for making it all possible!
