On September 19th and 24th, high school students from South Baldwin County embarked on an enlightening journey through the healthcare industry as part of the Gateway to Great Careers program. With excitement and curiosity, students from Foley High School and Gulf Shores High School participated in the immersive tours, gaining invaluable insights into medical professions and exploring potential career paths.
Foley High School’s Experience:
On September 19th, 38 students from Foley High School boarded a bus and headed to their first destination—South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s freestanding emergency department (FSED) in Gulf Shores. The 14,400 square-foot facility operates 24/7, providing essential emergency services such as X-ray, CT, MRI scanning, ultrasound, mammography, and laboratory testing. Students were welcomed with a comprehensive tour led by specialized technologists, who demonstrated the capabilities of the facility’s advanced medical technology.
The highlight of the tour was a presentation by Aaron Ward, Director of the FSED, who offered an in-depth explanation of the trauma unit’s high-tech equipment and processes. Following this, the students proceeded to Coastal Alabama Community College’s main campus in Bay Minette, known for its top-rated nursing and health sciences programs. As they entered the bustling campus, the group enjoyed a brief taste of college life in the cafeteria before being guided to the nursing and health sciences building.
Coastal Alabama’s admissions team introduced the students to the college’s wide range of programs, emphasizing their nationally recognized nursing apprenticeship program. Eyes lit up as the students toured the state-of-the-art simulation lab, where lifelike mannequins simulate real-life medical scenarios. Eleventh-grader Gabriella Garsoro, aspiring to be an ER or travel nurse, was thrilled to witness the breathing capabilities of the mannequins, exclaiming, “This is such a cool experience because I’ve never seen a mannequin be able to breathe like this!”
Gulf Shores High School’s Experience:
On September 24th, Gulf Shores High School students set off for the University of South Alabama, where they were divided into groups to tour the university’s simulation building and learn about the cutting-edge healthcare programs offered. Faculty members showcased the advanced simulation technology, including computerized, human-like simulators that create real patient scenarios to prepare students for clinical practice. Gulf Shores students marveled at the equipment and the hands-on learning opportunities available to college students.
After the simulation lab visit, the students were treated to a campus tour led by enthusiastic university ambassadors who shared insights about campus life, punctuated with chants of “Go Jags!” The students also experienced a lively lunch at the university’s cafeteria, where they mingled with current students and enjoyed the diverse food options.
A Gateway to Future Careers:
Both Foley and Gulf Shores high schools have health sciences career tech programs that provide a foundation for students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. Most of the students who participated in the Gateway to Great Careers tours are currently enrolled in these programs, but the initiative is open to any student interested in exploring monthly industry focuses. The tours left a lasting impression on the 56 participating students, inspiring them to consider healthcare as a future career.
The Gateway to Great Careers program, launched last year at Gulf Shores High School, has now expanded to include Foley High School, thanks to a grant from the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation. This funding covered transportation costs, ensuring all students had the opportunity to participate in these enriching experiences.
By offering real-world exposure and connecting students to local healthcare facilities and educational institutions, the Gateway to Great Careers program not only broadens students' understanding of the medical field but also emphasizes the value of community support and mentorship. As these students step forward on their educational and career journeys, they carry with them a sense of purpose and excitement, knowing they are the future of a field that thrives on compassion, knowledge, and dedication.
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