Trading his summer vacation for career exploration, Great Bend High School Senior Kevin Gonzalez attended the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in June. The nationally recognized honors program seeks to acknowledge high-achieving students for their dedication, talent, and leadership potential in medicine by engaging them in a meaningful career exploration program.
“It doesn’t matter what background you come from, or what you have or haven’t achieved,” said Gonzalez, “there’s still an opportunity to advance in your plans and reams if you follow your passion.”
Held virtually in 2022, the congress included a series of notable keynote speakers and numerous Nobel Prize winners, including Mario Capecchi, Ph.D. and 2007 Nobel Prize winner as the event’s grand master. In addition, breakout sessions allowed attendees from around the world to collaborate and converse with accomplished scientists, doctors, industry leaders, and their peers. Participants had the opportunity to view surgical procedures with the ability to submit questions for the surgeon to answer in real time.
Reflecting on the students he connected with from around the world, specifically mentioning attendees from China, Japan, Brazil, and the US, Gonzalez noted that they all had a shared focus and appreciation for the eye-opening opportunity in pursuit of their career goals.
Gonzalez plans to pursue a career in Biomedical Engineering and has already been admitted to the University of Kansas and Kansas State University. In February, he hopes to earn his Seal of Biliteracy in both Spanish and German.
As Gonzalez completes his career at GBHS, he is president of the Robotics Club, a board member for the Drama Club, member of National Honor Society, HOSA, Student Ambassadors, KAYS, Random Acts of Kindness (RAK), and a Junior Rotarian.
The Congress of Future Medical Leaders is presented by the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientist, learn more at futuredocs.com. For more information about initiatives specific to GBHS, please contact the Lacy Wolters, ACT & career coordinator at 620-793-1560.