BTE San Diego had positive impacts on economically disadvantaged students. The program supported and mentored students attending San Diego High School, one of two Small Learning Communities within San Diego Unified School District that have a healthcare focus.
Through real-world experiences, career exploration, and enhanced student education, approximately 30 BTE students participated in a semester-long biotechnology course each year, where they developed the technical and soft skills needed to succeed in the healthcare field.
In an effort to enhance the science curriculum, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development (PRD) scientists served as “Industry Guest Speakers.” The 90-minute presentations, demonstrations and hands-on labs enriched the students’ experiences. These monthly in-classroom labs were directly aligned with the science curriculum and California’s science standards. Sample topics included pharmaceutical research, chemistry, biology, environmental/safety, animal handling, business development/licensing, and administration. Company site visits, college tours, and a variety of healthcare-related fieldtrips were also offered.
Students were also encouraged to participate in an annual community service project, scientific events, and tech fairs. BTE Alumni (those completing the biotechnology course) could participate in a variety of paid internships and job shadowing at the PRD facility and other healthcare companies in San Diego, including hospitals and biotechnology companies.
