Journalism training in science and health is a candle in the dark – 09/22/2023 – Novo em Folha

I live in Curitiba, I’m from Ponta Grossa (PR). The city of São Paulo, in itself, is an extraordinary experience for me. Between September 8th and 15th, I had a special reason to visit her. The commitment was the face-to-face stage of the trainee in science and health at Sheet.

The proposal was intensive contact with these areas. Looking at the multiple facets of the Brazilian health system is a complex exercise.

At Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, a reference in medicine in Latin America, we learned about robotic surgery techniques. Professionals told us about impressive research underway, we also heard from doctors with a global reputation. During the visit, speakers referred to the hospital’s facilities as “our Dubai”.

Two days later, we visited the medical records room of a Basic Health Unit (UBS), which are not yet electronic. Amid all that paperwork, two employees were trying to organize the folders and enter the information into the system. I looked at the label, the number of the chips was in the millions.

The speakers explained to us the immense public health network in São Paulo. The dedication of employees to the benefit of patients is moving. Einstein and UBS, each in their own way, made us reflect on health in Brazil.

When it comes to science, the Ibirapuera Planetarium was a spectacle. I have a deep interest in astronomy.

Cássio Barbosa, a professional in the field, accompanied us on the visit. I had the opportunity to ask some silly questions. He answered one by one, careful to put it in an intelligible way. It was a great lesson in science communication.

We passed by the Butantan Institute, an impressive visit. It’s easy to get lost among the beakers, lab coats and centrifuges. I’m a journalist, I don’t have that kind of training.

In my head, I thought: “how do you make a vaccine from scratch?” Inconceivable. Surreal. They do. I also confess that I was frustrated, I wanted to see the snakes. There wasn’t time. Next time maybe.

I also want to talk about journalism. The days we spent in the Newsroom were spectacular. I’m suspicious of talking. I grew up among Folha readers. As a child, still working in the printed newspaper, I loved the comics section. Then, I became interested in Sudoku. Then, through journalism. Years have passed, the admiration is the same.

The passion for journalism makes your eyes water when you enter the Folha building for the first time. I heard about her throughout my undergraduate studies. It’s a reference.

This month, I met a new Folha. This time, from the perspective of those who make it happen.

Finally, about people. The group shared laughter, learning, tiredness. Our mentors, Cláudia Colucci and Suzana Singer, are a journalism class 24 hours a day. Douglas Carvalho, always attentive, helped us with everything we needed.

I was able to connect with people from other states —now friends—, who come together because they believe in journalism. Everyone converges on this curiosity for what is in the dark, for what we don’t know. What a fantastic experience!

I chose the right profession.

Folha’s 8th Training Program in Science and Health Journalism is sponsored by the Serrapilheira Institute, Roche Laboratory and Sociedade Beneficente Israelita Brasileira Albert Einstein

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