Sara Boyle ’15 (l) and another student learn about careers in Health Care at Medquest.

Sara Boyle ’15 participated in Medquest, an intensive five day Health Careers Exploration Camp for High School students this summer.

This weeklong camp, which was held at SUNY Upstate Medical University July 14-18, allowed students to explore health careers through interactive workshops and hands-on activities.

Boyle was one of 25 participants who attended presentations on Respiratory Care, Physical Therapy, Radiation Therapy and Medical Research. In addition, Boyle had the opportunity to experiment with stitching techniques, cardiovascular perfusion, casting a limb and making a radiation mask. Participants stayed in the dorms to have the full campus experience

“The MedQuest Health Careers Exploration Camp shines the light on some of the most sought-after jobs in the health care industry, and gives these students an early look at what these jobs are like, as well as what skills and knowledge are necessary to land a job in health care,” said Donna Vavonese, one of the program’s organizers.

MedQuest students also visited Upstate’s surgery simulation center, toured the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital and learned about the nursing profession.

The MedQuest camp is sponsored by the Central New York Area Health Education Center (CNYAHEC), which helps train healthcare professionals throughout the region. Enrollment in Medquest is open to students from Central New York who will be entering the 11th and 12th grades and are interested in science and health careers.

Boyle plans to attend Le Moyne College and study to be a Physician’s Assistant.