Spring semester has taken my research within Microbiology to an applied level. I have had a valuable experience this semester in a Capstone research course. This course allows for a small group of students to formulate an individualized approach and apply research to a community level. I have not only learned microbiological laboratory technique, but have also integrated research to address a social justice initiative. I consistently hear of issues concerning social justice and oppression facing United States communities. These broad and ambiguous terms beg for understanding and application amongst community residents. A more thorough understanding of issues that can be addressed underneath the social justice mission umbrella is the first step in making a difference within our communities. My academic coursework has allowed me to focus on this goal while at the same time amplifying my lab experience and knowledge.
Academic experiences gained at the University of Wyoming gives me opportunities to share unique involvement at a local level. On Wednesday evenings the Downtown Clinic of Albany County provides primary health care to low-income, uninsured residents. I have grown to value and cherish my time with the volunteers and patrons of the clinic. Involvement in volunteerism and research of the Clinic’s treatment exposed me possible avenues of social justice issues surrounding health care needs of local county citizens. This experience has advanced my pursuit in future public health involvement. My undergraduate education and research exposure has revealed how poorly we address healthcare issues at a preventative level. The Clinic’s patients have issues responding to antibiotic medications, due to their poor nutritional status and weak immune systems. This preventable issue causes reoccurring illnesses and current need of emergency room visits. The Downtown Clinic led me to question the justice of health care delivery that makes it difficult for community members to access sufficient and accessible healthcare. Emphasizing attention on primary health-care may alleviate severe and persistent issues amongst compromised health conditions in communities worldwide. Participating in research analysis of probiotic and prebiotic treatment against gastro-intestinal infections provided my first-hand knowledge of one area that begs for educational implementation to citizens in need. I have realized that several issues facing Downtown Clinic patrons can be addressed through a realistic, educational and self-sustainable approach to citizens who lack access to primary healthcare attention.
My experience at the Clinic gave me perspective on health disparities that affect my own community. I would like to hear from other participants of the training in order to gain knowledge of how to most effectively address social justice areas of need at a community level. I am passionate for this particular issue; continued involvement in addressing healthcare needs with a preventative approach has potential to be expanded in my local community and communities across the nation. This single course has given me significant insight in utilizing biological applications to improve human healthcare and other social justice related missions.