Cardiac Camp 2024: Empowering Future Cardiologists
December 16, 2024
Cardiac Camp at UCSF is an entirely free, hands-on learning experience for 9th and 10th graders who are Underrepresented Minorities in Medicine. Throughout the weeklong camp, students explored cardiovascular medicine by identifying heart sounds, learning about heart-healthy nutrition, practicing suturing and knot-tying skills, and even examining a real heart. Feedback from the students reflected the camp’s profound impact:
“Cardiac Camp gave me just a hint of what college/medical school life may look like. The lectures were really informative and I learned about cardiovascular diseases, how the heart works and about heart healthy-nutrition! I also loved that the medical school mentors shared with us what medical school is like and their journey!”
"What I most enjoyed about Cardiac Camp was having experienced lecturers come in and teach us about topics that aren’t readily available in low income areas.”
“I really did learn a lot and I am more than grateful for being able to be in this camp.”
“I enjoyed getting to see an actual heart and feel like a doctor by wearing scrubs. I also loved Dr. Binh An Phan’s lecture; it made me a lot more interested in cardiology.”
This year’s cohort was inspiring:
- 50% identified as Hispanic/Latinx
- 15% as Black
- 80% as female
- Fewer than 20% had a parent with a bachelor’s degree or higher
The UCSF Division of Cardiology and Women in Cardiology Faculty Group were honored to help provide stipends for transportation and general support for 20 students this year. We’re excited to welcome next year’s group in July 2025. If you or someone you know would like more information about the camp, please visit their website at: www.cardiaccamp.org.
See some highlights from the camp in the photos below.
