Twenty-six high school students recently completed a two-week teen health summer program organized and sponsored by the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) at the Northern Marianas College.
The summer program, which was held from June 10 to 21, 2024, provided students with hands-on experience, including CPR/first aid, mental health awareness, nutrition and health, and a glimpse into high-demand medical career pathways.
During the camp, students engaged in a variety of activities, including participating in a mini health career expo where different healthcare organizations shared valuable insights about their profession; learning communication, team building and leadership skills; learning how to suture and stitch a simulated open wound; creating their own arm casts; participating in a simulation training using high fidelity mannequins; learning basic CPR skills; monitoring their blood pressure and heart rates; learning about mental health and suicide awareness; engaging in a Zumba fitness session; gaining insights about the importance of healthy eating, how to read nutrition facts, and create a healthy dish; and exploring career options in nursing and other allied healthcare fields.
Justice Aldan, a senior at Tinian Junior/Senior High School, said that he enjoyed making new friends while expanding his knowledge in different healthcare fields.
“Getting to meet with people from different healthcare backgrounds has opened up my mind to all the different careers I can do,” Aldan said. “After completing this program, I learned that I wanted to be a counselor after getting a chance to interact with them at the health expo that my classmates and I attended. Counseling stood out the most to me because they are great human beings and love to help others.”
AHEC is a federally funded program under the University of Hawaii-Pacific Basin AHEC that provides health care education and training to students and professionals in the CNMI. The program is designed to increase the number of health care professionals in the region and to improve the quality of health care for all residents.
Les Ogumoro-Uludong, the NMC-AHEC program director, said that she commends the students’ commitment and eagerness to learn about opportunities in the fields of healthcare and allied health.
“Over the past two weeks, these students have demonstrated remarkable dedication, enthusiasm, and a genuine curiosity about the many pathways available within the healthcare industry,” Ogumoro-Uludong said. “This program wouldn't have been the same without this cohort’s willingness to step outside their comfort zone, work as a team, and embrace the chance to meet new people.”
For more information, contact Les Ogumoro-Uludong at the NMC Area Health Education Center at (670) 237-6810 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..