Middle schoolers explore healthcare careers at Scrubs Camp

The College of St. Scholastica has opened its campus this summer to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals with its innovative Scrubs Camp. Designed specifically for students entering grades 7, 8 and 9 in fall 2024, the camp’s first session of the summer took place on June 20, with an upcoming session scheduled for July 9, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Interested middle school students are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to explore the world of healthcare.

Sponsored by Essentia Health, Scrubs Camp offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to engage in interactive classes led by healthcare professionals across various disciplines. These sessions, which run in both the morning and the afternoon, expose students to hands-on experience in the field of health science.

A successful first session

The first session of Scrubs Camp was a great success, attracting thirty enthusiastic aspiring healthcare professionals. Participants embarked on a comprehensive exploration of the field, engaging in activities ranging from practicing essential handwashing techniques — a cornerstone of disease prevention in healthcare — to more specialized exercises such as suturing on pigs’ feet under the guidance of a surgeon. Students also gained hands-on experience in giving injections with the help of physician assistant students, applying wilderness splints, using ultrasound equipment and even simulating triage protocols in emergency situations.

One of the most remarkable features of the camp is its dedication to experiential learning. “It’s one thing to learn about these professions in a classroom, but it’s an entirely different experience to actually perform some of the tasks healthcare workers do daily,” said Dr. Elisa Schmitz, associate professor of Nursing and organizer of the camp. “Our goal is to ignite a passion for healthcare in these young minds by providing them with a realistic glimpse into the profession.”

The July 9 session promises the same dynamic, hands-on approach to learning for additional middle school students. At a cost of $35, which includes lunch, the camp offers an accessible and exciting opportunity for middle schoolers with an interest in healthcare. Need-based scholarships are available.

Parents and students seeking more information or to register for the upcoming session should visit the Conferences and Camps page.

Inspiring the next generation

Scrubs Camp represents a vital component of St. Scholastica’s commitment to fostering healthcare education from an early age, providing a platform for young students to explore their interests in a supportive, interactive environment. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like Scrubs Camp play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of professionals poised to make a difference.