Staff from the Navy Bloodborne Infection Management Center (NBIMC) met with teachers and students of the Elizabeth Seton High School Nov. 19, as part of NBIMC's ongoing partnership with the school and commitment to community service.

Capt. Charmagne G. Beckett, NBIMC officer-in-charge, and Ms. Debra Helman, NBIMC program analyst & diversity officer, were on hand for the school's career fair and provided valuable guidance and encouragement to students interested in pursing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

This marked the fourth consecutive year that NBIMC participated in the annual STEM career fair at the all-girls private, Catholic high school.

The event features women leaders from diverse careers and professions to showcase the vast array of opportunities available in the workplace.

Dr. Beckett, who used the opportunity to promote Navy Medicine says that she looks forward each year to inspiring young women and sparking an interest in military medicine.

"Most of the students get confused with the idea of a 'doctor' wearing a military uniform," said Beckett. "Students often ask me if I'm a real doctor."

Beckett enjoys the moments sharing her personal experiences during the 19 years spent serving the U.S. Navy as a physician, and the distinguished honor to have received a Health Professions Scholarship for her medical school education.

"As an Associate Professor of Medicine at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), I'm eager to promote USUHS as another path to military medicine," said Beckett.

Helman, who accompanied Beckett on her last two visits to Seton, has been with Navy Medicine for 23 years providing valuable administrative support to NBIMC. She shared her experiences with students as a member of the Federal Civil Service. Both Helman and Beckett informed students of the numerous opportunities available to them in Federal employment.

Ms. Sylvia Cason, Elizabeth Seton High School guidance counselor and career fair organizer expressed her appreciation for NBIMC's participation in the event.

"Our students really enjoyed thinking about the wonderful opportunities that await them," said Cason. "We are grateful for what you have brought to our community today, and we look forward to your presence with us again."

For more news from Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, visit www.navy.mil/.