Five Star Gift Ideas

For a son who is passionate about epidemiology and disease control, there are a number of thoughtful and engaging gift ideas that can inspire and fuel his interest in this field. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Books: Consider gifting him some books that delve into the fascinating world of epidemiology and disease control. "The Ghost Map" by Steven Johnson, which explores the historic cholera outbreak in London, offers an intriguing blend of history and epidemiology. Another great choice is "Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic" by David Quammen, which examines how diseases jump from animals to humans and the science behind global outbreaks.

2. Online Courses: There are several online platforms that offer courses on epidemiology and disease control. Enrolling your son in one of these courses could enhance his knowledge and skills in the field. Websites like Coursera or edX offer a variety of options, such as "Epidemics - the Dynamics of Infectious Diseases" or "Introduction to Epidemiology."

3. Fieldwork Equipment: If your son is interested in practical aspects of epidemiology, consider gifting him equipment that would be useful for fieldwork. This could include a high-quality microscope for studying microorganisms, a portable air sampler for collecting air samples, or even a lab coat with his name embroidered on it. These gifts not only show support for his passion but also provide him with tools to explore and conduct experiments.

4. Subscriptions and Memberships: Consider a subscription to scientific journals or magazines related to epidemiology. This will ensure that your son stays up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the field. Alternatively, you could gift him a membership to a professional organization, such as the American Society for Microbiology or the International Society for Infectious Diseases, which would provide him with access to exclusive resources, conferences, and networking opportunities.

5. Field Trip or Conference Attendance: If your budget permits, surprise your son with a trip to a place relevant to his interests. For example, you could plan a visit to a renowned research institute or a disease control center. Alternatively, if there is a conference or symposium happening in a city nearby, consider funding his attendance. Participating in these events can expose him to cutting-edge research, provide networking opportunities, and inspire him further in his chosen path.

Remember, the most important aspect of the gift is to show your son that you support his passion and are invested in his personal and professional growth. By choosing a gift that aligns with his interests, you are not only encouraging his enthusiasm but also providing him with resources to explore the field of epidemiology and disease control.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”