Health Science Experience Night and Pharmacy Open House set for Oct. 15

Freshman Alissia Draper entered Idaho State University this fall with a new iPad in hand, and she has her mom to thank.

Alissia won the iPad at last year’s ISU-Meridian Health Science Experience Night, an annual event to introduce Treasure Valley high school and college transfer students to ISU health science programs.
Had it not been for her mother, she probably would’ve stayed home.  “I’d just returned to Boise after touring the Pocatello campus and I was tired,” the 2013 Centennial High School graduate said.

But Alissia’s mother encouraged her to go. Not only did she win the tablet computer, but she had the opportunity to meet ISU faculty, students and participate in hands-on demonstrations in the health sciences. “It was great being able to talk to students in the programs and getting to hear about their experiences,” said Alissia, who wants to become a physician assistant after she completes her undergraduate studies.  

This year’s Health Science Experience Night is Tuesday, Oct. 15,  5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.,  at the ISU –Meridian Health Science Center, 1311 E. Center Drive.  Attendees are eligible to enter a drawing for a free iPad. Winning is contingent upon attending ISU.

“Health Science Experience Night is a wonderful opportunity for Treasure Valley students to delve into the health professions.  They experience hands-on what professionals do in the field each day.  We invite students and parents to participate in this annual event,” said ISU-Meridian Enrollment Services Director Ali Crane.
 
Health Science Experience night will be held in conjunction with the College of Pharmacy Open House and chili cook-off  in the L.S. Skaggs Pharmacy Complex. The meal is $5 and proceeds support pharmacy outreach projects. Pharmacy students and faculty will also be available at 6:45 p.m. for a question and answer session for prospective students.

Pharmacy students will conduct free blood pressure checks; provide education about diabetes, heart health, prescription drug abuse and poison prevention; and administer flu shots. The first 50 flu shots are free.  After that, the cost is $29.99, payable by cash or check. 

As for Alissia, she’s putting her iPad to good use--downloading textbooks, checking email, accessing study materials and connecting with the Bengal  community.
Another plus to having her own iPad?  “I don’t have to share it with my family,” she said with a laugh.

For information about Health Science Experience Night, call 208-373-1700.  For information about the Pharmacy Open House, call 208-373-1821.