Hospital becomes classroom for high school students
At Digby General Hospital, an enthusiastic group of students recently were given the opportunity to learning about health care careers.
A 'Students and Health Care' panel and discussion happened at the Digby General Hospital in December to introduce local high school students to the various professions and job opportunities in health care. The goal was to encourage students to explore, and hopefully pursue, a health-care career.
Students from Islands Consolidated School, Digby Regional High School and St. Mary’s Bay Academy were invited to attend, with some participating virtually over the internet.
“I am interested in becoming a nurse practitioner and this session informed me very well on the different options there are to making my dream a reality,” said student Gemma Moore. “I am truly grateful to have this kind of support in our town, Digby. The panels were great as well as the health-care workers who were able to make this event happen.”
Students had a chance to ask questions during a panel discussion that included licensed practical nurse Chantelle Hazelton, nurse practitioner Vanina Walsh, medical social worker Emily Courney, Dr. Ashley McCormick, Dr. David LaPierre, and medical student Joel Arsenault, who joined via internet.
Willow Walker is a student who is interested in a career as a paramedic.
“I found the day very informative with a lot of the information to take in,” she said.
Guests speakers also included NSHA volunteer resources consultant Tanya Maillet, Tideview Terrace volunteer coordinator Ariel Rice, and Digby General Hospital site lead Hubert d’Entremont.
“As the co-op teacher, I found the panel very beneficial and informative for students wondering about health professions as careers,” said teacher Geraldine Amirault. “There should be more info sessions like these for students so they can make informed decisions.”
The day was a true community effort, with organizers and sponsors including the team of the Digby & Area Health Services Centre, along with representatives of Schools Plus, Turning the Tide/ Inspiring Communities Digby, the
Digby & Area Health Services Charitable Foundation, and Atlantic Superstore Digby.
Feedback from the students will be used in planning future events and activities, along with plans to add students to the organizing committee.