Northern Kentucky University's College of Health and Human Services is making significant strides in guiding students towards diverse medical field careers. With tours to local high schools and a state-of-the-art simulation center, students are exposed to a wide range of options.

Unlock a World of Medical Opportunities at NKU

College Tours and Student Interest

Students from Campbell County High School recently joined a tour of the college facility. Director Trina Cossin emphasizes that many students aspire to work in healthcare but are unaware of the various paths available. The tours aim to showcase alternative careers such as lab technicians, imaging technicians, and more.

These tours have become popular as high schools have students interested in a health career. As Cossin mentions, "We can't even accommodate all the tour requests that we get." The college's Center for Simulation Education within the College of Health and Human Services provides a unique learning environment.

The Simulation Center - A Real-Life Healthcare Experience

The simulation center features eight inpatient simulation rooms, including an operating room and a multi-bed critical care room. It also has a simulated home health environment and eight outpatient examination rooms. Cossin proudly states that there is nothing like it in the area.

Students can practice real-life healthcare situations here, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Owen Setters, an NKU Nursing student and ambassador, explains how they use mannequins to show the human body and its functions through simulations. It offers a different perspective that students don't get in a classroom or regular field trip.

Programs Offered Beyond Nursing

In addition to nursing, the college offers allied health programs such as radiologic science, respiratory care, radiation therapy, and a non-clinical program. There is also kinesiology, athletic training, occupational therapy, and more.

For example, senior Jazlynn Miller, who attended the tour, was initially interested in forensic science but realized the importance of knowing about different aspects of the medical field. Her personal experience with a knee injury led her to consider physical therapy. She said, "I'm really enjoying the fact that I'm hearing a little bit about everything like you could do physical therapy, or you could do radiology."

Student Ambassadors and Their Role

NKU Nursing student Owen Setters serves as an ambassador during the tours, showing students what life is like in an NKU program. He highlights the importance of exposing students to different fields and helping them discover their interests.

Setters believes that the college is providing them with unique experiences that they wouldn't get elsewhere. It's about showing students the possibilities and helping them make informed decisions about their future careers.