College of Natural Sciences students joined students from Austin Community College in a mock hearing on health care reform legislation at the Texas Capitol on Saturday, Feb. 13.
The students filled the roles of Democratic and Republican members of Congress, and heard expert testimony from witnesses like Jose Camacho, executive director and general counsel for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, on the issue of healthcare for the uninsured and underinsured.
Attorney William Hopkins spoke to the students about patient safety and hospital staffing.
“In the days leading up to the event, I was very nervous because I did not know if I was prepared enough,” said participant Miranda Colletta, senior biology honors major. “But during the hearing, my attitude changed. I began to see the event as an opportunity to learn rather than an opportunity to show my knowledge or skill. Overall, it was a great opportunity for me. I enjoyed listening to both sides of arguments.”
Other participants from the College of Natural Sciences included: Carrisa Huq (biology honors), Greg Kritsky (mathematics, Plan II), Min-Jeong Cho (biology honors, Dean’s Scholars), Tyler Merceron (biology, Plan II) and Matt Lubbrano (mathematics honors). Sandeep Mehta (finance, Plan II) also participated.
The students were prepared for the event by members of the National Nurses Organizing Committee, faculty from ACC, faculty from The University of Texas at Austin’s LBJ School of Public Affairs and faculty from UT School of Law.
Comments