Some thirty Cherokee Middle School students learned about possible health careers during a recent visit to UNC Asheville’s campus.
First they got a lesson in pharmacy from the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy where they learned to make and weigh capsules. Then they assessed their strength and flexibility, and got a taste of the UNC Asheville teaching kitchen from the university’s Health and Wellness Department.
The visit was part of Cherokee Middle School’s “Medical Mania” camp. “It’s all about STEM – science, technology, engineering and math – picturing themselves on college campuses and visualizing new career choices,” said Cherokee Middle School teacher Bette Fitzgerald. “In Cherokee, there is high risk for diabetes, obesity and heart conditions, and there’s a new tribal hospital facility, so if these kids choose health careers, they will have opportunities right at home.”
“We’re trying to encourage rural youth to choose health careers,” said Stephanie Kiser, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy clinical assistant professor and director of rural health and wellness. “What we know about pharmacy students who come from the western part of the state is that many want to return to where they grow up. And in rural areas, we have health provider shortages. So for students with strong ties to the WNC region, being able to learn and train close to home positions them to serve their families, friends and communities.”
Medical Mania proved a great fit for many of the middle school students. “It’s been really fun,” said Maya Cruz. “I want to become a doctor when I get older.”
Riley Crowe is more interested in pharmacy. A rising sophomore at Cherokee High School who came along as a mentor to the younger students, Crowe said, “Everyone is really into it. We’re all getting certified in first aid and CPR/AED.”
The students also got a brief introduction to the field of health and wellness promotion at UNC Asheville. “We enjoyed having the students in our ‘Fitlab,’” said Ellen Garrison, UNC Asheville lecturer in health and wellness. “They learned by trying their hand at two important health biometrics – the grip-strength and trunk flexibility tests.”
Medical Mania, which also included visits to MAHEC, Western Carolina University, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Southwestern Community College, is funded by a grant from Burroughs Wellcome.