Girls to scrub in for surgery, perform science experiments March 2 at DMU

DES MOINES, IA (02/14/2013)(readMedia)-- Metro area girls will don surgical gowns, handle human organs and partake in exciting chemistry experiments at Des Moines University's annual Girls in Science Day on Saturday, March 2. More than a hundred fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade girls from Des Moines area elementary and middle schools will convene on the DMU campus for a fun-filled morning of science and medicine activities.

"This year marks the eighth annual Girls in Science Day," says Ashley Simpson-Nedved, event co-organizer and D.O. student in the class of 2015. "The campus will be abuzz with over 100 girls experiencing the many realms of science through hands-on activities."

The interactive, action-packed event gives girls a firsthand look at science by rotating them through six stations, exploring anatomy, chemistry, microbiology, osteopathic manual medicine and physical therapy, podiatry and surgery. From learning how to properly scrub in for surgery and sterilize instruments in the mock operating room to analyzing organs in the anatomy lab, the girls will experience different aspects of the medical field.

"Research shows that girls lose interest in science between the ages of nine and 12," adds Simpson-Nedved. "It is fun for us to have the girls on campus and show them that science can be fun and doesn't have to be just for boys."

Girls in Science Day is open to girls in fourth, fifth or sixth grade. Registration is required by Wednesday, February 20. For more information about the event or to register, contact Chris Mohr at chris.mohr@dmu.edu or 515-271-1440.

Event Day Schedule:

7:30 a.m. – Continental breakfast & check-in

8:15 a.m. – Brief introduction of career options

8:30 a.m. – Surgery, chemistry, anatomy, microbiology, podiatry, OMM & physical therapy stations

Noon – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Pick up

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Des Moines University is the only private medical school in Iowa, offering graduate-level, professional degree programs in osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, health care administration, anatomy, biomedical sciences and public health. Founded in 1898, the institution offers superior academics in a collaborative environment. DMU students' pass rate on national examinations and board certifications is consistently higher than the national average and the rates at similar institutions.