On December 12, HSMSE hosted a Youth Conference at CCNY with students invited from several area high schools. The conference was organized by Mr. Burgan and attended by over 50 HSMSE students. The students participated in five panel discussions. Highlights from three of those sessions shared by their facilitators are below:

"Society's Perception of Women"  -  Facilitators:  Rondelle Besson and Shirley Orellana

Our session became an all out discussion about women.   The female members of the group expressed their opinions on different topics such as men making more money than women who are equally or even more qualified in the same position.   Also, we talked about the double standard between men and women such as how it is acceptable in society's eyes for a man to do things that women are not "allowed" to do. Lastly, we discussed the physical standards that women are subjected to compared to men.    

"Society's Perception of Men"  -  Facilitators:  Vish Persaud and Danielle Clarkson

This discussion session was one of the most emotion provoking that I have ever attended.  The lessons of the workshop were simple but easy to apply to real life.   For example, the girls in the room were convinced to open doors for men instead of the usual opposite.   It is wonderful to know that the perceptions of people were changed due to a short forty-five minute discussion. This workshop, and furthermore, the entire conference, was a huge success.

"Health Issues"  -  Facilitators:  Angeline Andre and Leonardo Pena

In this discussion session, participants discussed Hyper Tension, Diabetes, and Asthma. We examined what these illnesses are, their causes and symptoms, and resources to help people with the illnesses.  The facilitators started the discussion writing the discussion topics on the board and then asked the participants what they are and if anyone knows any of the symptoms. Next, we played a game that was similar to charades. The facilitators would mimic symptoms of an illness and participants would have to guess the illness. After the game, participants shared personal experiences and life stories that explained how they came to know so much about the illnesses. One girl spoke about how Diabetes runs in her father's family, so her grandfather and uncles had it and died.  Now, her father is diabetic and she spoke of how watching him suffer and her helping with his injections and treatment has hurt and scared her. Also, she said that from witnessing it first-hand, she watches her health carefully and wants to become a nurse to help others.

ALL HSMSE students receive an additional $200 off all SAT and ACT courses! Please call 1-877-738-7737 and give them the discount code: HSMSE2H