The Health Science Academy was established at Athens in 1990. As a specialized program, the Health Science Academy has prepared students for their futures in healthcare fields through centering on developing skills in technology and engineering. Students in the Academy have the opportunity to study courses on Pharmacy Technology, EMT training, and many other fast growing health careers in North Carolina. Some courses even allow for students to earn certification following passing the course and a state mandated exam.
“Other than the foundation classes, students can receive honors credit for completing the courses and receive articulated credit towards community college. Certifications include: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), bloodborne Pathogens, AHA (American Health Association) CPR and First AID, numerous certifications in Public Safety, Pharmacy Technician, EMT 1 & amp; 2, Certified Nurse Aide, Vet Assisting at Athens and Veterinary Technician (CCCC-Sanford) through their College to Career Program,” said Jennifer Hulsey, Health Science Academy Director.
In order to graduate from the Health Science Academy, students are required to complete requirements of the course and the academy, as well as 135 hours of work at a health concentrated internship. The Health Science Academy consists of three different course pathways: the Medical Sciences track, the EMS track and the Animal Science track.
“Students are initially introduced to the fundamental topics in each pathway during their freshman year, as overview of careers that are available after high school and in college. Students are exposed to hands on learning, soft skills, off-site learning and guest speakers to engage students’ interest in the health sciences. The 135-hour internship gives student work-based learning opportunities to showcase their skills. Several opportunities include Cardiothoracic surgery, orthopedics, NCSU BME (Biomedical Technology), Duke Infectious Disease, EMS rides, veterinary practices, summer camps and volunteering at the local hospitals and nursing facilities,” said Hulsey, Health Science Academy Director.
Once course requirements have been reached, each student must complete an internship junior and senior year. The internship allows for the student to take on a role as a worker in a company or organization. After completing the internship, students reflect on what happened while in the workplace. The purpose of the internship is to give the student a sense of what working in the health field looks like. Students will earn an honors credit upon completing and presenting on their internship.
“I have learned so much from being a part of the health science academy. I have been a part of the Health Science Academy since freshman year, and this past year was given the opportunity to have a paid internship at Ashworths where I had a role assisting and learning from the pharmacist,” Lauren Queen, senior.
