Kaylee McDonald

Academic Experiences

Operation Orange, OSU-COM at the Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah, OK – 2024, 2025 

• Engaged in discussion with current OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine students, Physician Assistant students, and Athletic Training students to gain firsthand insights into their academic and professional experiences.  

• Participated in interactive, hands-on demonstrations, including studying real human anatomy specimens such as the heart, lungs, and brain. 

Building the Pipeline for Women and Medicine, The Perry Initiative, Oklahoma School of Science & Math, Oklahoma City, OK – 2025 

• Completed six hands-on mock surgical exercises, gaining practical skills and insights into orthopedic procedures. 

• Engaged in mentorship sessions with women surgeons and engineers, receiving guidance and career advice from professionals in STEM fields. 

• Attended lectures by local women leaders in orthopedic surgery and engineering, learning about career pathways and the importance of advancing women in STEM. 

• Explored surgical techniques and engineering applications in a collaborative, hands-on learning environment. 

• Developed a deeper understanding of the critical role of diversity and gender equity in STEM fields. 

Intertribal Agriculture Youth Conference, The Palms Casino, Las Vegas, NV – 2025 

• Recognized as one of the Top 40 Essay Finalists in the Nation for the USDA Tribal Advisory Committee prompt, providing impactful recommendations for the future of agriculture in Indian Country. 

• Represented the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma during the national conference, carrying the Choctaw Nation flag in traditional dress during the flag procession. 

• Attended workshops on native agriculture, food sovereignty, USDA programs, and professional development, deepening knowledge of policies and practices in Indian Country. 

• Built connections with representatives from the USDA, NRCS, BIA, and Native American Agriculture Fund, as well as IAC Technical Assistance Specialists, strengthening her professional network in native agriculture. 

Dr. Pete’s Immersion Camp, Oklahoma State University – Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK – 2024 

• Gained hands-on experience in medical procedures, including CPR, suturing, and intubation techniques. 

• Participated in an exclusive tour of a state-of-the-art anatomy lab, observing advanced tools and techniques used in medical education. 

OSU-IT Emerging & Converging Technology Academy, OSU Institute of Technology, Okmulgee, OK – 2024 

• Engaged in hands-on learning activities across various academic programs at OSUIT, including: 

• Nursing and Health Sciences: Explored healthcare practices and medical technologies. 

• Engineering: Gained insight into engineering principles and problem-solving techniques. 

• Information Technology: Learned about software, hardware, and IT systems. 

• Visual Communications: Developed creative design and communication skills. 

Youth Medical Mentorship Summer Summit, Oklahoma State University – Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK – 2023, 2024 

• Participated in hands-on clinical activities across various medical specialties, including Cath Lab, Sonography, Pulmonology/GI, Trauma/ER, Surgery, Suturing, and OBGYN. 

• Gained hands-on experience in advanced simulation hospital settings, including delivering three simulated babies and practicing robotic surgery techniques. 

• Networked with doctors, advanced practice providers, and medical students to gain insights into healthcare careers and professional development. 

Choctaw Nation Drone Camp, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Tuskahoma, OK – 2023 

• Participated in a hands-on learning program focused on piloting drones. 

• Gained practical experience in drone operations, navigation, and control techniques.  

• Developed problem-solving and technical skills through interactive drone piloting activities.