From Curiosity to Calling
High School Students Discover Healthcare Careers at WCU
This week and next, there are nearly 60 high school students representing 24 different
high schools exploring careers in the health sciences in the University’s Health Career Summer Academy. Offered annually through WCU’s College of Health Sciences (CHS), the program provides high school students interested in careers in the health sciences
with a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of healthcare professions through
hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experiences.
This is the first year the academy has offered both one-week and two-week participation options, allowing more students to benefit from this transformative experience. And thanks to sponsors and donors, students attend free of charge.
Throughout the two-week academy, students work alongside WCU faculty and healthcare professionals, gaining valuable exposure to careers while developing the knowledge and confidence to pursue futures in healthcare. They participate in nursing simulations, respiratory therapy, sports medicine and CPR, environmental health, public health nursing, mental health and suicide prevention, self-care and meditation, and conclude the week by presenting what they have learned.
Thanks to the sponsors, students receive an assortment of educational materials to use during and after the academy experience.
WCU nursing students John Aguilar Vazquez and Brianna Rossi and nutrition major Emily Fry are assisting with the academy this year.
Now in its 12th year, the Health Career Summer Academy showcases the University’s commitment to expanding access to healthcare education, strengthening the future workforce, and creating meaningful opportunities for students to explore careers that make a difference.
Corporate sponsors Meridian Bank and Briarwood Day Camp provided generous support to make this life-changing opportunity possible for these students.