The Nevada County Superintendent of Schools (NCSOS) proudly hosted its annual Exploring Careers in Health Institute during Fall Break, October 20–23, offering 25 high school students from across the county an unforgettable, hands-on experience in the world of healthcare.
This four-day institute, sponsored by NCSOS, was designed to inspire students interested in health and medical careers while strengthening partnerships between education and local health organizations. Through the generous support of community partners—Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, the Yuba College Nursing Program, and Nevada County First Responders—students explored a wide range of healthcare professions through tours, mentorship, and immersive training.
Throughout the week, participants rotated through multiple departments at Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, including the Cancer Center, Surgery, Cardiology, and Labor and Delivery units. One highlight included a mock baby delivery session, where students worked collaboratively to simulate the process of bringing new life into the world. Students also learned about Chaplaincy, how to administer Narcan, earned CPR and First Aid certification, and had the rare opportunity to watch CalSTAR emergency responders land a helicopter on the hospital’s helipad.
At Yuba College, students met with instructors and current nursing, EMT, radiology, and psychiatric technician students to learn about educational pathways, licensing, and what it takes to succeed in today’s healthcare environment. They also shared lunch with Yuba College nursing students to discuss the importance of work-life balance and the realities of nursing education in California.
On the final day, students connected with Grass Valley Firefighters to learn about their career journeys, training, and what daily life is like in the fire and emergency medical services fields. They also participated in a hands-on microbiology session, observing sample growths they collected on agar plates and engaging in discussions on bacteria, hygiene, and public health connections. This activity helped students make meaningful links between science learning and the real-world challenges faced by healthcare professionals every day.
To conclude the week, microscopes were raffled to participating schools, encouraging continued exploration in STEM and health sciences. The students also completed their final CPR skills signoffs. Students then presented their final reflections and learning highlights to family and friends during a closing ceremony, where they were awarded certificates of completion for the program.
“The Exploring Careers in Health Institute is more than just a career exploration program—it’s an opportunity for students to see themselves as future healthcare leaders,” said Christine McCormick, Assoc. Superintendent of Educational Services at Nevada County Superintendent of Schools. “Healthcare is a fast-growing field in our region and across the nation. By providing students with early exposure to these careers, we’re helping them envision meaningful futures while addressing the growing need for skilled healthcare professionals.”
NCSOS extends heartfelt thanks to Sandra M. Barrington, Executive Director at Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation, Carrie Mehlert, Director of Health and Medical Career Programs and Nursing at Yuba College, and Valarie Carte, Instructional Assistant at Sierra College – Public Safety Program Fire Tech and Admin of Justice, for their invaluable support and leadership in providing these experiences and helping build a strong, sustainable program for Nevada County students. Their partnership continues to have a profound impact on students’ understanding of and enthusiasm for healthcare careers.
Through immersive learning and direct engagement with local professionals, the Exploring Careers in Health Institute underscores the commitment of NCSOS to prepare students for high-demand, high-impact careers. Programs like this helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, empowering students to discover their passion and purpose in service to others.