YOU CAN BE IN SPORTS AND STILL BE A SCHOLAR

The Science, Medicine & Related Topics (SMART) Program at UMDNJ offered 135 pre-college students and a group of 50 inner city males a thought provoking and an inspiring glimpse of the life of a Physiatrist.

Todd Stitik, MD, Professor of PM&R, Director, Occupational/Musculoskeletal Medicine sent an encouraging message to all youth who attended who were interested in pursuing a health related field and/or interested in sports. He was able to effectively intertwine both health and sports to illustrate how his occupation can satisfy one on many different levels. .

Dr. Stitik captured everyone's attention with his descriptive slide presentation detailing his educational path towards becoming a Physiatrist. He talked about what his profession entails and why an interest in science and medicine is important. He also relayed the satisfaction he gets by providing a service to those who need help. The students were very receptive when he mentioned that his job enabled him to meet a variety of interesting people, some who have been involved in notable sports careers.

Dr Stitik's presentation sent a positive message to all the youth that it is possible to be involved in sports and still be a scholar. One visiting inner city homeless youth from New York City relayed that he “ learned about how you got to deal with your life with a dream like being a doctor. I learned that just because there's a person that tells you that you can't do it, it does not mean that your dream is down. You just do what you think is right and go on with your life ”

He emphasized to all in attendance, that passion, courage and commitment are some of the main attributes needed in order to be successful in any endeavor.

T he SMART Program mission is to advance the understanding, knowledge and appreciation of science and medicine among under represented minority students who wish to pursue medical, research and health-related careers.

Since its inception the SMART program traditionally served low income, minority e students in grades 8 – 12. The program has since expanded to serve a more diverse population and also now includes the sixth and seventh grades. The Department of Family Medicine is now accepting applications for the 2008 Summer SMART Program.