Beginning in January, 28 high school nursing students will start work at Allen Hospital after passing their certified nursing assistant (CNA) exams.
This unique program between UnityPoint Health and the Waterloo Career Center was made possible through a state grant aimed at helping to develop more Iowa-based career paths. The $176,000 in funding will help students cover the costs of transportation, medical training equipment, and uniforms.
“I think this is a great opportunity for students to get hands-on experience with the hospital staff,” said Paige Emerson, UnityPoint Health recruiter. “We’re really excited to have the students working at UnityPoint Health to help them learn and prepare for future careers.”
According to Jeff Frost, executive director of professional education at Waterloo Schools, students will be able to explore a multitude of potential career paths such as cardiovascular, laboratory, operations, and more throughout their experience.
“One of the great things about them signing on with UnityPoint is that they will get to float between floors,” said Frost. “Our goal is to create the next generation of healthcare workers.”
While 28 students signed their offer letters this semester, Frost expects more to follow in 2023.
“Ultimately, for us it’s about getting as many students into this program as possible,” said Frost.
Pam Delagardelle, president and CEO of UnityPoint Health Waterloo, encouraged participating students to dream big at the event. Citing her own journey from 16-year-old CNA to CEO, Delagardelle asked UnityPoint’s newest cohorts to explore every career path in front of them.
“I’m one of your biggest champions,” said Delagardelle. “We couldn’t be more excited at UnityPoint to have you joining us.”
This year’s inaugural cohort is ready to hit the ground running according to East High junior, Larya Pratchett.
“It’s exciting because a lot of the time since we’re younger we don’t get as many opportunities because they look at our age instead of our skills,” said Pratchett. “Being able to work in a hospital is really cool, and helps us become role models for others in our community.”
After the signing ceremony, participating students celebrated with their loved ones over a catered lunch courtesy of Waterloo restaurant, Ari’z.
