Nearly 200 high school students on Oahu and Kauai got an inside look at the wide range of jobs in the medical field at the Pali Momi Medical Center and Wilcox Health career fairs. Students participated in hands-on clinical activities, toured facilities and had the opportunity to ask health care professionals questions at Pali Momi and Wilcox.
Dozens of students from Aiea High School’s Health Sciences program spent several hours at the medical center that’s less than a mile away from their campus. Pali Momi has partnered with the school program in prior years, but this is the first time a career fair has been hosted at the medical center. Dr. Jason Isa, Pali Momi chief of staff and anesthesiologist, and proud Aiea High alumnus, has helped to foster and grow the relationship with the school.
“One of the things we’re striving for with this program is to show the students you’re not limited by what people tell you, and you’re not limited by your or other people’s expectations,” Dr. Isa said. “You can be whatever you want to be.”
According to Dr. Isa, many Aiea High graduates are now working at Pali Momi and want to support those in the next generation who may aspire to join them one day.
“It’s different, seeing pictures and videos of professionals doing their jobs rather than going to their jobs,” said Christiane Almosara, Aiea High School senior. “Not only does it feel different, the aura and air in the room is different. It’s very surreal.”
On Kauai, more than 100 students from Kapaa, Kauai and Waimea high schools and Island School took part in Wilcox Health’s Career Fair. Wilcox Medical Center and Kauai Medical Clinic (KMC) staff engaged with students at more than 15 booths ranging from rehabilitation services to food and nutrition. The annual career fair is special to many staff members who grew up on the Garden Isle and are now taking care of their community.
“To me, this event really hits home,” said Amber Elkington, KMC director of clinical operations. “We’re not just talking about our future workforce. We’re talking about the future of Kauai.”
Students tried on simulation goggles to experience the challenges faced by concussion patients and spent time with Star, Wilcox’s facility dog. They also were taken on tours of multiple departments at both Wilcox and KMC to gain valuable insight into the careers that will one day be available to them.
“My goal is to be able to come home and practice here on the island,” said Alena Abell, Kapaa High School senior. “Kauai is where I was born and raised and it’s really important for me to give back to my community.”
Photo (top): Pali Momi cardiologist Dr. John Kao talks to Aiea High School students about the heart and its functions.
Photo (inset 1): Students from Waimea High School practice CPR at Wilcox Medical Center.
Photo (inset 2): High school students, instructors, staff and providers at the Pali Momi Career Fair.