Snellville, Ga. (March 21, 2024) – Piedmont Eastside Medical Center and McClure Health Science High School partnered together to offer the first cohort of students a chance to be an intern at the hospital. The cohort consisted of 10 students who are juniors and seniors, who were able to be placed on several units, like the medical surgical floors, the laboratory, phlebotomy, emergency department, and working with the Health Information Management department.
McClure strives to offer students a world-class experience to explore health sciences, get a hands-on approach in and outside the classroom, and to earn certifications to help them advance in their college or career plan.
While the students were at the hospital, they learned blood work techniques, understood the different types of samples that get sent to the lab, performed vital signs, and were able to shadow clinical staff and assist with patient care techs in various settings. One of the key takeaways was that many of the students were able to take what they’re learning in the classroom and use those same techniques in a real hospital setting.
“We are happy to offer this experience to the healthcare heroes of the future,” said Liz Jackson, Community Relations Director at Piedmont Eastside. “The students are able to apply what they’re learning in the classroom, right here, to a real-life scenario with our staff and patients in a controlled setting. Serving our community to impact positive change is how Piedmont can empower change in Gwinnett County, and these kids will prove that.” Not only do the students get a chance to hone in on their skills in and outside the classroom, but it further demonstrates the goal of the partnership, which is to create a workforce and promote professional development.
“This is the first time McClure has been able to offer our students such a unique opportunity,” said Nicole Mosley, Principal for McClure. “The commitment Piedmont Eastside has made to this community is truly amazing. When you think of a true partnership, this is what you think of. I’ve known some of these kids for their entire four years at McClure, and to see what they’ve been able to do proves that, because of this partnership, they’re ready for the next step.”
The precepting staff at Eastside, who worked alongside the students, were also impressed with how quickly the students took to many of the lessons they were taught and how knowledgeable they already were. One employee said they enjoyed working with the students because their youth and enthusiasm brought such a unique perspective on the challenging health care environment.
The students were honored with a certificate of completion in recognition of the time they gave to the hospital. The internship runs six weeks and is exclusive to McClure students.