Learning by Doing: Campers Experience Healthcare at Saint Mary’s

By MARIANA TASKEY ’25

This summer, 77 high school students from across the country, and around the world, came to Saint Mary’s College to participate in the Healthcare Institute pre-college program. Designed for high school girls interested in careers in healthcare, the immersive program gives students the opportunity to learn from Saint Mary’s faculty, gain hands-on experience, and explore the many paths available in the healthcare field. 

Throughout the week, campers participated in interactive workshops where they practiced clinical skills like suturing on prosthetic skin and applying casts. They even got to practice casting on their camp counselors. Campers also spent time in the College’s Center for Integrated Healthcare Education simulation labs, where they learned how technology is used to prepare future healthcare professionals.

The group also visited Memorial Hospital, where they met members of the MedFlight Emergency Transport team, learned about emergency medicine, and had the opportunity to tour a medical helicopter. 

For Lily Shay of California, the experience strengthened her passion for healthcare while introducing her to Saint Mary’s. 

“The camp has truly deepened my interest and expanded my views on healthcare,” Shay said. “I hadn’t heard of Saint Mary’s before coming, but I love it here. Everyone is so welcoming and so kind.”