Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC) is set to host the Medical Academy Program starting March 31. This initiative consists of five presentations, scheduled for Monday nights from 6-7:30 p.m., concluding on April 28. The sessions will be held at Centennial Hall on the UW-Eau Claire campus and conducted by physicians from the Mayo Clinic Health System. The program is open to college students, high school juniors and seniors, as well as the general public.

Timothy Young, M.D., a neurologist and medical director at Mayo Clinic Health System, expressed enthusiasm about this year's program. “Building on the success of our first year, we’re excited to inspire the next generation of medical professionals,” he stated. He added that this second year offers a broader range of perspectives and more interactive experiences aimed at igniting a lasting interest in healthcare.

Speakers will also provide insights into "a day in the life" within their profession, offering participants an understanding of both the challenges and rewards associated with medicine.

Registration for the program begins on February 17 and can be completed via the Medical Academy Program webpage.

Dr. Julie Anderson, director of UW-Eau Claire’s Health Careers Center, emphasized the collaborative nature of this initiative between UW-Eau Claire and Mayo Clinic Health System. “It brings students and members of the community together for engaging, informative and interesting conversations about medicine and health — a truly unique opportunity right in our own backyard,” she remarked.

Last year's event attracted over 100 attendees, including some from outside Eau Claire. Among them was a parent who gained valuable insight into their daughter's journey through medical school. Participants valued this chance for continuing education alongside community members.

Anderson further commented on this year's expectations: “We are excited for this second year to bring a large group of eager learners together to inspire future healthcare professionals and engage the community in important conversations about medicine and health.”