Our Subcommittees
Over the years, enthusiastic research assistants and coordinators have taken the initiative to develop programs that align with their passions, namely service to the hospital and the local community, professional development, and career guidance.
Communications
The Communications subcommittee ensures members stay informed about relevant events and opportunities aligned with PRADA’s mission. They collaborate with subcommittees and external organizations to promote events within the Boston Children’s community, managing monthly newsletters, the website, and social media.
Community Service
The Community Service subcommittee provides high-quality volunteering opportunities, both virtually and in-person in the Boston area, to research assistants and coordinators. This group distributes a list of community service opportunities and helps members with any application steps. We partner with service organizations inside and outside of Boston Children’s Hospital to foster community-building skills like mentorship and leadership. We are committed to fostering inclusion across race, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, ability, and all other identities.
- Fundraising Walks (NSTAR and CCFA)
- Patient Family Housing Program Dinner
- Cradles to Crayons drives
- PRADA and COACH Summer Mentoring Opportunity
Health Disparities and Inclusion
The Health Disparities and Inclusion subcommittee aims to help future healthcare professionals develop professionally, gather information about diversity and inclusion within PRADA, and create safe and supportive spaces at Boston Children's Hospital. We understand that not everyone in our community has always had their voices heard, so HDI will work to create a culture where all research assistants and coordinators feel listened to and represented. HDI also provides opportunities to discuss important national and local issues that may have a significant impact on members of the community.
Interactive Music Performance at Children’s (IMPaCt)
The IMPaCt subcommittee's goal is to involve patients at Boston Children’s Hospital in music through volunteer-led musical learning and performance programs. PRADA volunteers meet weekly for music sessions in the Bader 5 inpatient psychiatric unit. They also work with Volunteering and Child Life Services to offer programs that enhance the existing music opportunities.
Mental Health Monthly (MHM)
The goal of the Mental Health Monthly subcommittee is to promote work-life balance for research assistants and coordinators through monthly wellness-focused events. The subcommittee seeks to provide a welcoming space for research assistants and coordinators to decompress, learn, and connect while disseminating ideas and tools for personal fulfillment as professionals in health-related fields. They aim to uplift the resilience and strength of the mental health of people of color and marginalized backgrounds, and identify barriers hindering access to proper mental health care and achieving work-life balance at Boston Children's Hospital and beyond.
- Mindfulness and ACT Workshop
- Gratitude Event
- Seasonal Affective Disorder Talk
- Mood Tracking Event
- Holiday Crafting
- Safe Spaces Series
Pre-Med
The Pre-Med subcommittee supports Pre-Med research assistants and coordinators in their medical school journey by offering guidance, hosting events, and fostering a sense of community. The subcommittee provides mentorship, assists in developing competitive applications, and creates a collaborative environment that reflects the interdisciplinary teamwork seen in modern healthcare.
- Medical School Mock Interviews
- Career Panels (MD, NP, PA, etc.)
- MCAT Trivia
- Suture Clinic
- Mentorship Program Sessions
Psychological and Behavioral Sciences (PBS)
The goal of the PBS subcommittee is to foster networking and professional development of research assistants and coordinators pursuing graduate school, research, or clinical careers in the psychological sciences: psychology, psychiatry, social work, neuropsychology, and clinical research. The subcommittee provides programming aiding in the success of psychological sciences-based professional development including research, graduate school applications, and more.
- Career & Education Panels
- GRE and MCAT Info Sessions
- Research Talk Series
- Resume and Scholarship Workshop
- Graduate School Interview Workshop
Public Health, Community, and Advocacy (PHCA)
The goal of PHCA is to better understand complex influences of health and advocate for the well-being of all. The subcommittee strives to develop knowledge and skills to address public health issues, brainstorm tools and strategies for a healthy, inclusive path forward, and collaborate with community peers and organizations. The subcommittee also identifies existing public health resources at Boston Children’s Hospital while connecting with the Children’s Advocacy Network (CAN), Boston Children's Office of Community Health, and Boston Children's Office of Government Relations.
- Climate Change and Environmental Health
- Global Health
- Homeless Youth and Families
- LGBTQIA+ Health
- Maternal and Child Health
- Mental Health and Substance Use
- Nutrition and Obesity Prevention
- Rare diseases and Genetic disorders
- Sexual and Reproductive health
Science Communications and Grand Rounds (SC&GR)
The mission of the Science Communications and Grand Rounds (SC&GR) subcommittee is to provide research assistants and coordinators with the opportunity to present among their peers and improve their scientific communication skills. The subcommittee hosts regular seminars on topics related to manuscript writing and presentation skills. Additionally, the Grand Rounds events provide research assistants and coordinators with the opportunity to present their work to their peers, as well as Boston Children's staff and faculty, in a formal setting.
- Graduate School Application Workshop & Support Group
- PRADA Poster Session
- Grand Rounds
- Science Communications Career Series
International Research Assistants Association (IRAA)
The International Research Assistant Association (IRAA) is dedicated to creating an inclusive community that celebrates multiculturalism. Our subcommittee supports and empowers international research assistants and coordinators through cultural exchange, personal growth, and professional achievement. The subcommittee organizes events, outings, and information sharing to foster community, celebrate cultural diversity, and address the needs of international research assistants and coordinators.
Advocating Success for Kids (ASK) Program
The Advocating Success for Kids (ASK) Program at Boston Children's Hospital supports around 500 children in the Boston area annually who are experiencing learning, developmental, emotional, or behavioral challenges at school or home. The PRADA ASK Program subcommittee hopes to work with the established BCH ASK program and help recruit volunteers to provide weekly tutoring to patients.
If you are interested in finding out more about our current opportunities, please email prada@childrens.harvard.edu.