Boys & Girls Club of the Piedmont Students Explore Healthcare Careers at Iredell Memorial Hospital

“I was really interested in the operating room and learning about the different surgical equipment,” said Rishidharan Jayakumar, Boys & Girls Club student. “My goal is to become a neurosurgeon.”

Students learned about nearly every area of the hospital including cardiopulmonary rehab, the emergency department, maintenance, biomedical engineering, radiation therapy and skilled nursing. They heard from multiple staff members and enjoyed interesting activities and games. This gave the students a hands-on learning experience.

The endoscopy staff led them through an activity using a scope.

“My favorite department was endoscopy as we got to participate a hands-on activity,” shared Blake Sabatino, student.

Other activities included an ambulance tour, checking out the helicopter pad, suiting up for an operating room tour, and taking a peek of the morgue. Each activity was met with excitement and wonder from the students.

Isabella Cuesta, whose goal is to one day become a nurse or nurse practitioner, was particularly interested in the surgical department.

“It was fascinating how they work as a team in the operating room. I loved getting to see a surgery in action!”

Iredell Health System staff were thrilled about the chance to share their careers with the students.

“I love working with students,” shared Angela Whicker, Education Specialist. “Med Stem Camp is filled with adventures waiting to be discovered.”

Whicker knows the importance of hands-on learning when deciding a career path, especially as a high school student.

“The students receive valuable information through hands-on learning that prepares them for the future.”

Iredell Health is honored to invest in the next generation of healthcare professionals through community partnership such as this.