Crispus Attucks High school freshman Shadaye Moore admits that the moment she donned her white lab coat changed her life.
On Tuesday, May 9, the 14-year-old became a member of the third class of students from Crispus Attucks to join the fellowship, a partnership between Indiana University Health and Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS). Over the next four years, these students will train for careers in the health care industry.
“There are not a lot of Blacks or ethnic groups in the medical field,” Moore said. “I feel like my people are counting on us to lead. And it’s truly inspiring to be in this program.”
During the ceremony at Crispus Attucks, Moore and 37 of her classmates became the third cohort in the fellowship. The pilot program welcomed its first group of fellows in the spring of 2021. A second group was added in 2022.
Just under 100 fellows are now being supported in their professional and personal journeys as future health care leaders. Throughout the program fellows explore, gain exposure, and build skills for employment in a diverse range of health care careers.
Fellows will take health care courses, participate in enrichment activities, professional networking, job shadowing, paid internships, and other work-based learning opportunities, in addition to preparing for college and careers.
Upon graduation and successful program completion, fellows will be offered a position with IU Health as a Medical Assistant II or Patient Care Tech/Assistant, in addition to guidance and support in pursuing postsecondary education.
IPS Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson said the program is another example of the partnerships between the district and the community designed to provide real-life opportunities for IPS students.
“All of the students who are participating in this fellowship are students of color. That matters that they have these opportunities to have these experiences when they hopefully continue in their careers to be health care professionals,” Johnson said. “I believe that will matter for the patients and the people who they serve.”
For more about the fellowship, click HERE.