Written by Bernice Trick
Citizen staff
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Sunday, 28 June 2009 |
Grade 10 student studies the heart at UBC
One Prince George youth looks forward to the summer holidays for a different reason than most high school students.
Bryson Siemens, a Grade 10 student at D.P. Todd secondary school, will spend his summer in the Heart and Stroke Foundation's High School Summer Research Program at UBC in Vancouver.
Bryson is among 10 extraordinary students chosen to participate in the 15th annual research program that delves into the mystery of cardiovascular disease.
"Getting accepted was like a dream come true. It was the biggest feeling of accomplishment I've ever had and I'm really excited about going," said Bryson.
The program, open to Grade 11 students in B.C., and the Yukon, is designed to motivate students with a strong interest in biology, medicine and research to consider a career in cardiovascular research.
Last summer Nancy Wang, a Williams Lake student, was selected to attend the program.
Upon her return, she told The Citizen," This program has definitely influenced my choice for the future. It has exposed me not only to the area of research, but many other sides of science, and has convinced me to stay in Canada for my post-secondary schooling."
Students participate in a wide range of activities related to the program's goals including an ambulance ride-a-long, observation of an open-heart surgery, CPR certification and nutritional cooking classes.
Since the 1950s, the Heart and Stroke Foundation across Canada has invested more than $1.1 billion in research support. Since then the death rate from heart disease and stroke has decreased by 70 per cent, said Kathryn Sutton, a co-ordinator with the foundation.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 28 June 2009 )
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