Unit Description
Volunteers work closely with the STEM Education Coordinator to inspire students toward health-care careers and STEM education. Volunteers lead K-12 students to various departments throughout University of Iowa Health Care for interactive tours during their visit. Volunteers also help with preparing materials for student visits, perform administrative duties, and support online presence through the STEM Education social media channels. The visits generally have a theme, ranging from pediatrics, to genetics, to trauma, to basic science research. Occasionally, volunteers may have the opportunity to lead interactive gross anatomy sessions during these visits.
Volunteers who are self-motivated, outgoing, and have the ability to connect with students in grades K-12 would be a great fit for this program. Students should have an interest in health care, health administration, or teaching.
Training
All prospective STEM Education volunteers will attend large group orientation, where they will receive general University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics information. Volunteers will also attend a two-hour small group orientation to receive training and information specific to the STEM Education. Finally, volunteers will receive training from the department staff.
Uniform
The dress code for this unit is a dress shirt or Volunteer Services polo, khaki pants, and closed-toe shoes. Shirts are available for purchase at Wild Rose Gifts (Main Entrance Lobby) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Volunteers must follow the professional appearance policy, which includes wearing the volunteer badge at all times.
Hours Available
STEM Education is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This unit is not available for the summer semester.
Areas of Study Best Suited
This placement is a great fit for education majors, any pre-professional health majors, and those interesting in pursing a career in health administration.