The Palm Springs Academy for Learning Medicine (PALM) at Palm Springs High School offers academic classes focusing on medicine, certifications and practical skills development. The academy aims to help students achieve academic success, personal growth and career readiness through a supportive and engaging learning environment.

One of the significant advantages of this four-year program is witnessing how the real world works. We have many opportunities to improve our skills and learn from our mistakes. PALM provides job shadowing and internship opportunities that help strengthen students’ knowledge and allow them to participate in hands-on experiences. These experiences enable students to try and attain goals, however if they fall short, they are exposed to important teaching moments. By experiencing and analyzing errors, students gain a more thorough understanding, eventually improving their abilities and knowledge.

Taking part in internships and job shadowing demonstrates one’s commitment to the field and a proactive approach to learning. The experiences also help build relationships with mentors and classmates. These are wonderful benefits as they help build essential skills such as professionalism, patient communication and empathy.

Team unity is another important aspect gained from being a part of PALM as working together keeps everyone informed on protocols and procedures and ensures consistent patient care.

Furthermore, the benefits of our academy extend beyond the classroom. In addition to participating in our internships, students are required to undergo interviews to enhance their interviewing skills. PALM also assists students with resume writing as we start to build our portfolio with community service hours and leadership roles within the academy. Even if our future career choices don’t align with the medical field, we inherit valuable life skills from our academy that prepare us for college and future careers.

The Palm Springs Academy for Learning Medicine builds opportunities for students allowing them to develop hands-on skills in a professional environment. This academy is an excellent and positive influence on students and, not only shapes the careers of tomorrow’s leaders, but also strengthens our community today.

This fall, Kimberly Ramos and Miranda Gonzalez start their junior year in the PALM program. For more information on valley medical academies, visit OneFuture Coachella Valley at www.OneFutureCV.org or call (760) 625.0422.