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During the next meeting, students can begin to plan specific
activities for the group. In planning activities, it is wise to keep in
mind the number of students in the group and the amount of time that each
student has to dedicate to group activities. A wide variety of projects
may seem exciting but it can overburden the already busy schedules of
participants. It is far better to start small, adding new activities as
group membership grows.
During new student orientation prior to the start of each
academic year, the members of the student geriatrics group can present
information about the previous year's activities, either as a formal portion
of orientation or by setting up a booth staffed by a student member. In
addition to generating interest among the new students, the booth could
be used to gather the names, phone numbers and addresses of potential
members who can then be contacted personally with information regarding
meetings or social events.
Students can organize group field trips to nursing homes,
senior centers, or any other geriatric facilities in the area. The trip
should be scheduled for a time that is convenient for students, faculty
advisors, and the administration of the facility to be visited. Choosing
a facility that is close to the school reduces the transportation problems
and costs.
Depending on funding priorities, the group may elect to
send a member to attend a national conference. The student attending could
disseminate information about his or her group, learn more about other
geriatric student groups, or present a paper or poster. During national
conferences, group members will have a chance to meet experts in the field
and other students who are interested in geriatrics.
Most cities have experts who would be willing to address
a student group. In addition, a nationally known expert who is visiting
the area may be willing to spend an hour or two with students (see appendix,
"AGS Speakers Bureau"). A 30- to 45-minute talk followed by
refreshments will allow time for students to visit with their guest and
ask questions informally. Publicizing these special events with fliers
on campus can help the group to attract new members. Informal talks should
be scheduled for a time that will encourage attendance. An evening talk,
shortly after classes end, allows participants to stay on campus until
the event begins. Noon events may also be a good option.
Members could meet once a month or once every other month
to review current literature on aging. During literature review meetings,
two or three members can present their reviews and critiques of current
articles, leaving time for open discussion. Meetings can also focus on
a particular topic (such as disuse syndromes or iatrogenic disease in
the elderly). Inviting house staff or faculty to the meetings may enhance
the group's discussion and analysis of the articles being reviewed.
As the group grows larger, a simple newsletter
can keep members informed of activities. The newsletter can be used
to announce meetings and other events.
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