MRGB AHEC Scholars Serve Community
The Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Scholars program is a two-year program for college and university students enrolled in a health program to enhance their knowledge and offer real life experiences in a health setting. The program is offered at no cost and is one of many valuable services offered by MRGB AHEC to engage and motivate students to excel beyond their expectations. Students in the program complete a didactic and practicum focused on the needs of the community. Through their efforts and commitment to improving the community, on February 8, 2020 AHEC Scholars served 93 adults during the health and education fair offered by the Office of the Mexican Consulate in Laredo, Texas. The event, which was free to the public, offered a variety of education on topics of interest to the community as well as health screening and health referral services. Scholars also interacted with members of the community and utilized their learned skills to conduct health interviews and create awareness about the numerous services available to serve families and residents. Scholars utilized a popular tool during the event, which also generated curiosity and sparked an interest in the attendees who lined up to obtain their blood pressure, BMI and body’s age based on the physical condition of their individual body. Scholars pleasantly served and left a positive mark on each member present. “At AHEC, we offer support for students in their academics, and we understand the impact of hands on activities on their learning. These type of activities benefits all participants; students and residents” explained Julie Bazan, AHEC Executive Director.