Cerritos College and CSULB host engaging Sports Medicine Day for high school students

Gahr students in the competitionThe Cerritos College Kinesiology Department, in collaboration with California State University, Long Beach’s Athletic Training Program, welcomed approximately 150 dual-enrollment high school students from Cerritos College’s Sports Medicine Pathway Programs for a day of hands-on learning, campus exploration, and friendly competition at CSULB on April 11.

Students from Gahr High School and St. John Bosco High School participated in an event designed to showcase academic and career opportunities in kinesiology and athletic training. The energy and enthusiasm from the participating students created an exciting atmosphere throughout the day. The event featured engaging presentations, including an admissions talk and a specialized kinesiology session, giving students a glimpse into collegiate life and health science education.

Participants enjoyed pizza and homemade cupcakes for lunch before diving into interactive competitions. Students tested their knowledge and teamwork in an anatomy knowledge competition and an emergency care relay. Top performers earned Hydro Flasks, t-shirts, phone holders, and more prizes.

The day was made possible through the efforts of Mimi Nakajima, Program Director of Athletic Training at CSULB, along with her dedicated graduate students in the Athletic Training Master’s Program, who volunteered their time and expertise to create a fun, educational, and inspiring experience for the high schoolers. Mercedes Luna, a kinesiology professor at Cerritos College, noted the excitement among her Gahr High School students, who were thrilled to engage with peers from other schools and put their skills to the test. Carrie Edwards, Chairperson of the Kinesiology Department at Cerritos College, added, “It’s gratifying to see our students confidently demonstrating the skills they’ve gained through our Sports Medicine Pathway Programs. Events like this highlight the value of our dual enrollment partnerships.”

The Sports Medicine Pathway Programs at Cerritos College have seen significant growth, now enrolling over 180 students from three high schools. With continued collaboration among institutions, the future of sports medicine education in the region looks promising.