Future Healthcare Leaders Explore Medical Careers at Suvidha’s Gateway to Medicine Camp in Granite Bay, California

Suvidha International Foundation (https://suvidhainternational.org/), a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, successfully completed its 2026 Gateway to Medicine Summer Camp at the Granite Bay Library on June 28 and 29. Building on the success of the inaugural camp held in 2025, this year’s two-day, 12-hour program provided 40 middle and high school students with an opportunity to explore careers in medicine through interactive workshops, presentations by healthcare professionals, peer-to-peer learning, and CPR, AED, and First Aid certification. Designed to inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders, the camp presented complex medical topics in a clear, engaging, and supportive environment.

A defining feature of the Gateway to Medicine Camp was that it was planned and led by young aspiring healthcare professionals. Granite Bay High School students Sriram Vempati, a rising senior, and Arjun Dhulipala, a rising junior, worked alongside Abhiram Dhulipala, a rising sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh, to organize and deliver the camp. Drawing from their own academic journeys and interest in medicine, they designed an engaging program that was relevant to students. Their energy and peer-to-peer approach helped create a welcoming and inspiring learning environment.

Participants came from a wide geographical area, including schools across Sacramento, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, Elk Grove, Eldorado Hills, Shingle Springs, and Tracy. Schools represented included Folsom High School, Granite Bay High School, John C. Kimball High School, Mira Loma High School, Pleasant Grove High School, Ponderosa High School, Vista del Lago High School, West Park High School, Western Sierra Collegiate Academy, Whitney High School, Chilton Middle School, Folsom Middle School, Sutter Middle School, and Valley View Charter Montessori. The diverse cohort fostered a sense of community among students united by a shared passion for healthcare and a desire to explore medical careers.

The camp offered an array of hands-on medical learning experiences designed to simulate real-life clinical scenarios. The three hour long CPR AED and First Aid conducted by NorCal Emergency Medical Training provided students with the opportunity to recognize signs of cardiac arrest and perform chest compressions using professional-grade manikins. The importance of early intervention and proper technique was emphasized, giving students a tangible sense of the life-saving potential of medical training. All the students received CPR Certification.

 In another interactive session, Dr. Deepika Goshike introduced students to suturing techniques. Using synthetic skin pads and surgical tools, participants practiced stitching wounds under guided supervision, gaining insight into surgical precision and the patience required for procedures. The student leaders made medical science engaging through a hands-on lung model created with balloons and everyday household items. By observing airflow, lung expansion, and the mechanics of breathing, students developed a better understanding of respiratory function, lung capacity, and conditions such as asthma.

Participants also gained practical experience with common diagnostic instruments. They practiced taking blood pressure with a manual cuff and stethoscope, measuring pulse and oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter, and listening to heart and lung sounds. The session allowed students to use real medical equipment and connect classroom concepts with clinical practice. A particularly popular activity was the Medical Scavenger Hunt. This gamified learning exercise encouraged students to match 18 medical instruments including a thermometer, reflex hammer, stethoscope, otoscope, surgical mask, hemostat, ECG machine, syringe, forceps, tongue depressor, laryngoscope, spirometer, bandage, and blood pressure monitor to their correct uses and functions. This activity reinforced students’ understanding of basic medical instruments while promoting teamwork, observation, and applied thinking.

The educational journey was deepened further by expert talks from accomplished doctors who shared both technical knowledge and human stories from their medical careers. Dr. Sridevi Garapati, an internal medicine physician, contributed to the camp with an insightful session on what it takes to become a successful physician. She emphasized the importance of strong clinical knowledge, effective communication skills, compassion, empathy, and teamwork. She also engaged students with real-world clinical scenarios, including the case of a 62-year-old male smoker who presented with fatigue, excessive thirst, and frequent urination over several weeks. Through these examples, students learned how physicians gather information, consider possible diagnoses, and develop an appropriate care plan. She concluded her talk with a powerful quote by William Osler: “The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.”

 Dr. Alok Krishna introduced students to the field of Addiction Medicine. He discussed the science behind substance abuse, the challenges faced by individuals with addiction, and the importance of empathy in their treatment. He also explained how different substances can affect a person’s health and life, encouraged students to stay away from addictive substances, and shared ways to resist peer pressure. His talk emphasized that medicine is not only about science, but also about compassion, understanding, and service.

Dr. Abhishek Rai addressed mental health, a critical yet often overlooked area of medicine. He discussed anxiety, depression, and burnout among both patients and medical professionals, while encouraging students to prioritize their emotional well-being. He also shared insights into his daily work as a psychiatrist and explained the differences between the roles and responsibilities of psychiatrists and therapists. His open and honest presentation resonated with students and created a safe space for questions about stress, coping strategies, and resilience.

Cardiologist Dr. Sandhya Venugopal captivated the audience with an informative session on the daily life of a cardiologist, the educational pathway to becoming one, and the various specialties within cardiology and their responsibilities. She explained heart anatomy, common heart-related health conditions, disease prevention, and practical ways to maintain good heart health. She also emphasized the importance of reaching the hospital quickly during a cardiac emergency and explained how timely CPR can maintain blood flow to the heart and brain, reduce damage to the heart muscle, and significantly improve a patient’s chances of survival.

Dr. Priya Upadrasta introduced students to the field of dentistry, explained the educational pathway to becoming a dentist, and emphasized the importance of maintaining good oral health. She also highlighted the role dentists play in preventing, diagnosing, and treating dental conditions while promoting lifelong healthy habits. Offering students an authentic view of the path to medicine, medical student Vishrut Nagam shared both the academic and emotional aspects of his journey. He discussed MCAT preparation, the medical school application process, and the importance of perseverance. His advice to find mentors, stay focused, and develop meaningful experiences from high school onward connected strongly with aspiring physicians.

Venkat Nagam led an informative session on BS/MD programs, which offer qualified students a pathway from high school into undergraduate study with conditional admission to medical school. He discussed the competitive nature of these programs and explained how students can strengthen their applications through academic excellence, leadership, service, meaningful medical experiences, and a genuine passion for healthcare. His guidance on planning, application deadlines, and personal essays gave families valuable insight into opportunities they may not have previously considered.

Doctors and mentors consistently inspired students to ask questions, stay committed to their goals, and serve others through medicine. Their personal stories of setbacks, growth, and success helped students understand that a medical career is a long and challenging path, but one filled with purpose and fulfillment for those who combine intellectual ability with empathy and dedication.

More than a career exploration program, the Gateway to Medicine Camp became a source of inspiration for aspiring healthcare professionals. Students received a clear “Roadmap to Medicine,” covering academic excellence, volunteering, internships, research opportunities, leadership, and meaningful community involvement. They also gained something equally valuable: confidence. The doctors became role models, the organizers became mentors, and fellow participants became part of a supportive learning community. Parents praised the camp for its organization, professionalism, and positive energy.

The impact of the program was evident in the students’ feedback. A student from West Park High School said the program provided a clear roadmap for preparing for a career in medicine, while a student from Folsom High School appreciated learning about the wide range of medical specialties and healthcare professions. A participant from Mira Loma High School valued the guidance on responding appropriately during medical emergencies, and a student from Pleasant Grove High School identified the hands-on CPR training as one of the most useful parts of the camp.

A student from Vista del Lago High School especially enjoyed learning basic suturing techniques, while another participant from Vista del Lago High School appreciated the critical-thinking exercises and interactive medical scenarios. A student from Folsom High School said the camp helped participants develop valuable lifesaving skills, and an attendee from Western Sierra Collegiate Academy was inspired by the guest speakers’ personal journeys and professional experiences. A student from Whitney High School appreciated the speakers’ advice on the dedication, preparation, compassion, and skills required to become a successful physician.

Bhaskar Vempati, President of Suvidha International Foundation, thanked all those who contributed to the successful completion of the Gateway to Medicine Summer Camp. He especially recognized the lead high school students, volunteers, and organizing team for their careful planning, strong leadership, and commitment to delivering an informative and engaging experience.

Sriram Vempati expressed gratitude to the guest physicians and healthcare professionals who shared their knowledge, career journeys, and practical advice with participants. Abhiram Dhulipala thanked the NorCal Medical Emergency Training team for leading the CPR, AED, and First Aid certification sessions. He also acknowledged the Granite Bay Library for providing a welcoming space that encouraged learning, exploration, and inspiration. Arjun Dhulipala appreciated the students for their active participation, curiosity, and enthusiasm throughout the camp.

He also thanked the parents for placing their trust in the program and supporting their children’s interest in healthcare careers. The organizers agreed that the camp’s success was made possible through the collective support of professionals, volunteers, families, participants, and community partners. Inspired by the strong turnout and heartfelt feedback, Suvidha International Foundation intends to continue the Gateway to Medicine Camp each year. The program reflects the Foundation’s commitment to expanding access to mentorship, career awareness, and real-world educational experiences. By helping students see what is possible, Suvidha is encouraging them to imagine themselves as tomorrow’s doctors, scientists, innovators, and healthcare leaders.

Suvidha International Foundation’s initiatives

United States Initiatives: Education and Community Volunteering

Suvidha International Foundation (www.suvidhainternational.org) is a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing education and civic engagement. In the United States, the foundation offers a range of educational programs including speech and debate, robotics, AI and coding camps, Gateway to medicine (introduction to medicine career), Journey to Law School, and summer enrichment programs.

In addition to academic learning, Suvidha encourages youth participation in community service activities such as tutoring at seasonal camps (Fall, Spring, and Summer), stem cell drives, park and trail clean-ups, winter clothing drives, and support for local community events. These initiatives help students develop leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility. Suvidha also recognizes outstanding youth contributions through its annual volunteer awards program.

India Initiatives: Advancing Education, Empowering Communities, and Protecting the Environment

In India, Suvidha International Foundation transforms lives through education, skill development, and community empowerment. The foundation currently supports 106 underprivileged students, with a strong focus on enabling girls to pursue higher education and professional degrees in fields such as Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, and other academic disciplines. Some students are also supported at the higher secondary and school levels. Financial assistance ranges from $500 to $2,000 per student, helping cover tuition, college expenses, and hostel accommodations, allowing students to focus on their academic goals.

Beyond scholarships, Suvidha supports over 20 schools by providing supplies, furniture, sports equipment, STEM programs, and soft skills development, while also offering career guidance and mentorship to help students succeed in their educational and professional journeys. Suvidha also empowers women and youth through self-employment initiatives such as tailoring and vocational training, and supports communities through tree plantation drives, medical camps, food and essential grocery distributions, and watershed development projects that promote environmental sustainability and community well-being.