MASH Camp participants in the ACHE simulation lab

Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) welcomed high school students from Mercy and Baptist Health MASH Camp programs this summer, providing hands-on healthcare career exploration through simulation labs, osteopathic medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and interactive learning experiences. 

MASH (Medical Applications of Science for Health) Camp is a healthcare career exploration program that introduces high school students to medical professions through hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and exposure to healthcare education. These students are selected through a competitive application process based on academic achievement, leadership, service, recommendations and their commitment to a future in the health professions. 

During their visit to ACHE, participants rotated through a series of interactive learning sessions. Activities introduced the high school students to a variety of healthcare disciplines, while also providing opportunities to explore the technology and techniques used to educate tomorrow’s healthcare professionals. 

The experience was made even more meaningful through the involvement of ACHE students and faculty, who worked together to mentor participants, answer questions about their educational journeys and share first-hand perspectives on life in healthcare education. The opportunity to interact with current ACHE students sparked meaningful conversations about college, healthcare education, and future career paths. 

The Mercy MASH Camp welcomed 56 students representing 12 high schools throughout the region, while 20 students participated in Baptist Health’s MASH Camp.  

By introducing students to healthcare professions early, ACHE is helping inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals while advancing its mission of improving lives through education and expanding access to care in underserved communities.