During the week-long program, students discovered various healthcare career paths alongside the UNC Health Johnston team.

UNC Health Johnston opens its doors for high school students to explore careers in healthcare. Camp Med is an immersive experience where students shadow UNC Health Johnston teammates in eight disciplines around the hospital, including oncology, cardiac care, medical laboratory, inpatient care and other areas.

Before discovering the inner workings of the hospital, each student learns basic life support (BLS) for adults and infants with an instructor. Once they pass their examination, they earn their certification from the American Heart Association.

As each student gains exposure to the healthcare field, they find out which areas pique their interest. Ryan Moreland is a rising senior who joined Camp Med to explore her interest in nursing. Moreland was inspired by her parents, who work in the medical field.

“I just love how healthcare is so diverse. There are so many different aspects to any hospital, and so many career options,” said Moreland.  “It just feels like it would be a really good fit for me.”

On her second day of Camp Med, Moreland spent time in the medical laboratory, observing the dissection of specimens. The experience strengthened her interest in pursuing nursing, where she hopes to make a difference in the lives of her patients.

As North Carolina’s population ages, the need for healthcare professionals, especially care providers, is imminent. In 2000, there were more than five working age adults for every person over 65. By the mid-2030s, there will be less than three according to the Critical Workforce Needs Assessment.

Camp Med’s priority is sparking interest in the next generation of healthcare professionals, giving them a sneak peek at what their future could look like.

“Camp Med can generate interest from other students. Our participants go back to school and talk to their friends that hadn’t thought about healthcare,” says Lori Martin, director of education at UNC Health Johnston. “But when they hear about the week that our participants have had, maybe they can consider that ‘I should look into that. I should talk to my career counselor.’” 

Connect with your local hospital or Area Health Education Center (AHEC) to find the Camp Med program closest to you. Learn more about UNC Health Johnston’s Camp Med program here.