Health Sciences Foundations and Careers

Stewart Auyash, Associate Professor
(2 credits)

A wonderful introduction to careers in the health sciences, this Summer College course has been a favorite over many summers. Enrolled students have several clinic site visits including to several programs on Ithaca College’s campus:

• Physical Therapy 
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech and Audiology Clinic
• Wellness Center
• Hammond Health Center

And including several off-campus facilities:

• Cayuga Medical Center 
• Ithaca Free Clinic
• Longview, a residential senior community
• Planned Parenthood of the Southern Finger Lakes
• Kendal at Ithaca

Guest Speakers from the following health professions come to class for substantive discussion and Q&A: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise science, speech pathology, audiology, athletic training, nutrition and nutrition education, recreation and leisure services, health administration, health education, sexuality education, gerontology, medicine, nursing, nurse midwifery.

Ultimately, this course extends beyond careers and career decision-making. Discussions also cover major topics in health policy and contemporary health issues. Readings include Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder, a book about Dr. Paul Farmer, who performs generous work in Haiti. Course discussions are also guided by student interest.