Frequently Asked Questions
If your question is not answered on this page, please email Mark Stapf.
Health Advocates (HAs) learn emergency first-aid and peer counseling skills. Upon completion of the three-term course, Red Cross certifications in Emergency Response, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, Automated External Defibrillation Training, Oxygen Administration, and Preventing Disease Transmission are issued.
The expectation of the Health Advocates (HAs) is that they will respond to situations in their House and within the campus community that requires emergency first-aid, attention to routine medical problems, or peer counseling or crisis intervention. HAs are actively involved in the prevention of individual and group problems and also serve as liaisons between the Student Wellness Services and the Houses. HAs act as health information and referral sources, and are expected to work closely with the House Resident Associates (RAs) in all appropriate areas.
No.
Each student will receive a Health Advocate Kit (valued at approximately $425) that includes a professional paramedic bag embroidered with the student's name, a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, scissors, tweezers, various over-the-counter medications, antiseptics, various tapes, tongue blades, Steri-strips, digital thermometers, non-latex gloves, cold packs, gauze, bandages, pads, splints, and other miscellaneous emergency supplies.
No. While this experience may help those applying to medical school, the program is not tailored specifically for pre-med students.
The application process begins during the Spring of each year, at which time, current frosh and sophomores (i.e. rising sophomores and juniors) may apply. Training begins the first term the following academic year and continues throughout that academic year. Once the training is successfully completed, students are expected to serve in the Health Advocate position for at least one additional year.
We do not accept Frosh because they are still adjusting to college life during their first year on campus. Seniors are not accepted because they usually graduate from Caltech at the completion of the training and are therefore not able to serve as Health Advocates afterward.
Yes, but as both are elective, it is important for the applicant to be sure they have good time management skills.
The Health Advocate course is only open for enrollment during the first term because it takes all three terms to complete.
Health Advocates have the opportunity to use their skills while volunteering with the American Red Cross and Pasadena Fire Department at events where Red Cross Emergency Services are needed. In the past, Health Advocates have worked at first aid events such as events at the Rose Bowl, Rose Parade, and other events around the Los Angeles area.
Yes, there is a list of expectations that are given to all Health Advocates. Failure to follow those may result in loss of privileges.