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.