Bridgeport, W.Va. – High school students passionate about healthcare had a unique opportunity to explore the nursing profession this summer through the WVU Medicine United Hospital Center (UHC) Junior Nursing Academy, a no-cost, two-day immersive program designed to introduce students to the world of nursing.
The academy, which just completed its first-ever session, provided twenty-two 10th through 12th graders with at least a 2.5 GPA a chance to gain real-world experience in a clinical setting.
Participants engaged in a variety of hands-on activities, including: Simulation Labs featuring interactive training with mannequins, an obstetrics simulator, and cutting-edge medical equipment. Professional Skills Training to build confidence and competence in essential nursing tasks. EMS and HealthNet Overviews to broaden understanding of emergency medical services and healthcare networks. CPR Certification, with students earning a certificate of completion by the end of the program.
“This junior academy is an opportunity for high school students interested in nursing to come and get a little sample of what it’s like to be a nurse,” said Amber Marshall, RN, BSN, UHC Director of the UHC Junior Nursing Academy. “We educated them on learning vital signs and bedmaking. We did hands-on skills like phlebotomy and CPR. We even had a visit from Healthnet. Hopefully, these students were able to gather some insight on the nursing profession to see how interesting and rewarding it can be.”
Beyond technical skills, the academy emphasizes mentorship and professional development, pairing students with experienced nurses who provide guidance and insight into the responsibilities and rewards of a nursing career.
“This program is a fantastic way for students to explore nursing in a supportive, hands-on environment,” said Leslie Perine, MSN, RN, UHC Director of Professional Practice and Education. “It’s about sparking interest, building skills, and showing students what’s possible in the world of healthcare.”
The academy is hosting an additional session on July 15–16. However, all available spots have already been filled due to the high level of local students applying to secure their place in this transformative experience.
