California Baptist University

F or the more than 1,400 students in the College of Health Science pursuing as sociate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees offered across different programs, continuing classes has been a new challenge for the de partments of Kinesiology, Physician Assistant Studies, Public Health Sciences and Allied Health Professions. In-class labs are one of the major compo nents of most health science degrees, because of the practical experience they offer. While COVID-19 meant that most classes were taught remotely, some labs were allowed to continue this year with face masks, face shields and limited class sizes. Charlotte Steele, senior kinesiology major, says participating in in-person learning activi ties propels her passion to help people become the healthiest version of themselves. “Despite classes being online, I was still able to engage and feel part of a bigger picture by being involved in the in-person labs and

still getting the opportunity of hands-on learn ing,” Steele says. For Dr. David Pearson, CBU’s Faculty Athletic Representative and Dean of the Col lege of Health, this year has been an exercise in perseverance. He says, “The most positive way to view the pandemic era is that it provided faculty and students an opportunity to learn some new skills related to online and remote engagement.” “While it may not have been the primary choice of everyone involved,” Pearson says. “It was encouraging to watch my colleagues and our students rise to the challenge and make the most of the situation.” Both the students and the College of Health Science staff are unwavering in their commit ment to their field. The college continues to fill with passionate students willing to adapt their lab learning styles to get the education they can to help people become the healthiest and happiest version of themselves.

WORDS Faith Wicks

ILUSTRATION Hannah Siefkes

117 HS Labs