This summer, rising ninth-grade students from Alexander Central High School participated in an exciting week of healthcare exploration through ACHS Camp Med June 1st-4th. Throughout the four-day program, campers gained firsthand exposure to a variety of healthcare careers, developed practical skills, and connected with healthcare professionals across the region.
A Strong Start to Healthcare Exploration
Camp Med began with students discovering healthcare career pathways through a career match activity and career research in Xello. Campers explored the education, skills, and opportunities associated with a wide range of healthcare professions, helping them identify potential future career interests.
Students then traveled to the Catawba Science Center for the popular Sick Science program. Through hands-on activities, they examined bacteria, fungi, and parasites under microscopes, evaluated symptoms, performed flu tests, and investigated how diseases spread through an epidemic simulation. The day concluded with time to explore the Science Center’s exhibits, reinforcing scientific concepts through interactive learning experiences.
Learning from Healthcare Professionals
On the second day, students heard from healthcare professionals representing various areas of patient care and public health. Guest speakers included:
- Kaitlyn Graves, Alexander County Health Department
- Caroline Sawyer, ACHS Athletic Trainer
- Alice Layne, RN, Medi Home Health
- Abby Terry, NICU Nurse
These professionals shared insights into their careers, educational journeys, and daily responsibilities, providing students with valuable perspectives on the many pathways available within healthcare.
Campers also visited Valley Nursing Center, where they learned about careers in long-term care, interacted with residents through activities, and gained a deeper understanding of patient-centered care. The day concluded with hands-on healthcare activities led by ACHS Health Science teachers Lauren Mull and Kristen Jolly, allowing students to build foundational healthcare skills.
Behind-the-Scenes Hospital Experiences
Day three gave participants a unique opportunity to see healthcare in action during a tour of Iredell Memorial Hospital. Students visited several departments, including:
- Emergency Department
- Radiology
- Surgery
- Labor & Delivery
- Laboratory
They also learned about the critical role of Respiratory Therapy and how multidisciplinary healthcare teams work together to provide quality patient care. The experience offered an inside look at the many professionals who contribute to patient outcomes and highlighted the diverse opportunities available in the healthcare field. Shout out to the staff at Iredell Memorial Hospital for providing such an engaging and informative experience.
Building Skills for the Future
The final day took students to Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC), where they explored healthcare education and training programs. Campers participated in a Stop the Bleed session, learning life-saving techniques used in emergency situations. They also toured the Nursing Program, engaged in hands-on activities with the Surgical Technology program, and visited ValleySim Hospital to see how simulation-based training prepares future healthcare professionals. To cap off the week, students practiced taking vital signs, applying skills they had learned and developed throughout Camp Med.
Inspiring the Next Generation
From scientific exploration and hospital tours to career presentations and hands-on clinical skills, ACHS Camp Med provided students with meaningful opportunities to experience healthcare beyond the classroom. The program introduced participants to the many pathways within the healthcare field while helping them build knowledge, confidence, and enthusiasm for future careers in healthcare.
Camp Med continues to play an important role in inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals by connecting students with real-world experiences and the dedicated individuals who make a difference in the lives of patients every day.
Continue Your Healthcare Career Exploration with Virtual Camp Med
Inspired by what ACHS Camp Med students experienced this week? You don't have to wait until next summer to start exploring healthcare careers.
Northwest AHEC's Virtual Camp Med offers a free, self-paced online experience for students in grades 8–12 who want to learn more about healthcare professions. Participants complete 20 hours of online activities focused on career exploration, healthcare trends, human body systems, healthcare in action, and educational pathways within the health professions. Students who complete the program and submit their Camp Med Notebook earn a certificate of completion that can strengthen future educational and career opportunities. This program runs through July 31st.
Whether you're just beginning to explore your interests or already dreaming of a future in healthcare, Virtual Camp Med provides a flexible way to discover the many possibilities available in the healthcare workforce.
Ready to get involved in Camp Med right now? Learn more and register for Virtual Camp Med at:
https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/campmed
