Young adults cherish the Student Training and Education Program (STEP) this summer

After working hard all year in school, summer vacation can feel like a relaxing time for students. And for some, summer is also an opportunity to look for meaningful ways to keep busy.

This summer, 70 young adults aged 16 to 19 participated in the MUHC’s Student Training and Education Program (STEP), which combines learning activities with volunteer work. It gives students a chance to explore their interest in working in the medical field. Not only did these young adults lend a helping hand at our hospitals, but they also invested in their goals after graduation—learning the ins and outs of working in a hospital.  

Students were introduced to a wide variety of jobs.  Students met medical imagining technologists, physiotherapists, pharmacists, recreational therapists, to name but a few. They were able to let their imaginations soar for the future, getting that much closer to discovering the career that’s just right for them! 

A series of one-hour talks (called Career Seminars) allowed students to hear testimonies from staff. Students listened to stories and learned about daily tasks at work, med school, and having a work-life balance. Students were encouraged to believe in themselves in pursuit of their dreams. They even heard from a med school student who formerly participated in STEP herself! 

Students experienced mind-blowing simulations at the MUHC Interprofessional Simulation Centre (MUHC-i-SIM). Anyone who loves sciences enjoys their time at MUHC-i-SIM! It is one of our institution’s most treasured places for training, making use of simulation technology. This summer, STEP students discovered fascinating health technologies, including the use of robotics, through the power of simulation. 

Students toured the Montreal General Hospital’s Trauma Bay. Tara Grenier, injury prevention professional from CODE TRAUMA took students on an eye-opening experience of seeing where critically injured patients are. This proved to be a bonding activity enabling friendships to flourish. 

Students volunteered one shift per week at the hospital. With a lot of kindness, all STEP students worked as volunteers throughout each MUHC hospital. 

The MUHC would like to take this opportunity to thank each STEP participant for their volunteer work. You brought a warm presence to our hospitals throughout your time with us. 

It's been an incredible experience to see the hospital from the inside and understand how things work behind the scenes. The program has not only enriched my summer, but also provided valuable insights into the medical field. I feel more inspired and informed about health care and hospital operations.

-Kseniia Ivanova, 16 years old

Participating in this program was a fantastic decision. I not only learned a ton but also felt fulfilled by assisting others. The healthcare professionals we met shared their career stories, which motivated me greatly. One standout moment was my visit to the trauma centre at The Montreal General Hospital. Witnessing the coordinated efforts during critical situations was both intense and enlightening. Overall, my experience with STEP this summer was truly fulfilling. I sincerely hope that more programs like this can be offered to teenagers in the future, as they provide invaluable insights and experiences!

-Eman Alzhouri, 16 years old

I got the opportunity to see the hospital and how it actually works. It can be quite overstimulating, but it’s given me the chance to get used to busy places like it. STEP improved my summer because I don’t really do much during it; I usually stay home and go out from time to time. The program gave me a chance to make myself useful and also learn more about the healthcare field, which I am very interested in.

-Chizarah Idaboh, 17 years old

The seminars have helped me discover more about various career paths within the healthcare field. Being able to volunteer at the Neuro this summer has allowed me to practice communication and collaboration skills while interacting with patients. STEP has brought me a greater sense of gratitude towards being able to give back to the healthcare community and becoming more involved.

-Joyanne, 18 years old

I think the STEP program is a magical experience. We get to know more about different people working in the healthcare system through the seminars. It is highly interesting to see how everyone had a different experience/path but if the dream is present, they will do everything to achieve it. Volunteering each week at the hospital also makes me really happy; to bring some joy in the patient’s daily life. I would say that the STEP program is one of the highlights of my summer this year! I think this program is an unforgettable experience!

-Xuan Wu, 17 years old

If you’re interested in joining STEP next summer, click here to get in touch.