PRINCE GEORGE
Adventures in Health Care returns to inspire Northern B.C. students to explore careers in health sciences and human services

Adventures in Health Care, an immersive program designed to introduce high school students to education and career opportunities in the health sciences, is returning to Quesnel from April 29 to May 1, 2026. Led by Rotary Quesnel in partnership with CNC, UNBC, Northern Health, and SD28, the program provides students with a firsthand look at the diverse pathways available in health care and human services.

"We're excited to bring the Adventures in Health Care (AiHC) program to Quesnel. This initiative gives aspiring health care professionals a chance to see themselves in real-world clinical environments and better envision their future careers," said Marissa Knauf, principal, Correlieu Secondary. "It's a valuable opportunity that we hope will inspire local graduates to return to Quesnel after completing their post-secondary health care training. Thank you to everyone whose dedication and collaboration made this program possible."

Pre-selected students from SD28 will take part in the program, participating in hands-on activities and interactive sessions that highlight a range of disciplines, including medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, nursing, chemistry, health care assistant, and social work.

"At CNC, we are proud to provide students with meaningful, hands-on experiences that bring healthcare and human services education to life," said CNC Dean of Health Sciences and Human Services, Jenn Scott. "Programs like Adventures in Health Care and Human Services give students the opportunity to explore different pathways, build confidence, and see themselves in these important roles. Inspiring and supporting future healthcare and human services professionals is essential to the long-term health and well-being of our northern communities."

Each day of the program is hosted by a different partner organization, offering students a unique perspective on training, education, and career pathways. Sessions will take place at UNBC on April 29, Northern Health on April 30, and CNC on May 1, with a focus on showcasing the breadth of opportunities available in Northern B.C.

"This home-grown innovative program demonstrates the power of partnerships. When we work together across organizations, we create these unique high-impact opportunities for youth," says Dr. Nathan Lachowsky, Dean of the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences at UNBC. "This is how we recruit, support and retain outstanding students in our community." 

Throughout the program, students will also have the opportunity to connect with health care professionals and program alumni, gaining insight into both the educational journey and real-world experiences of those working in the field. 

"We are proud to welcome students in Prince George and the other host communities across Northern B.C.", said Emelye Macfarlane, Regional Manager for Recruitment at Northern Health. "Programs like Adventures in Health Care matter. When students are introduced to health care careers early, they see what's possible close to home, pursue education locally, and consider returning to work in their own communities. This reflects Northern Health's ongoing commitment to growing and sustaining a strong workforce locally." 

Since launching in 2017, Adventures in Health Care has engaged hundreds of students across Prince George, Quesnel, Terrace, and the Peace Region. The program continues to encourage youth to pursue post-secondary education and careers in health care, supporting the long-term sustainability of health services in northern communities.

"The Rotary Club of Quesnel recognizes that with a variety of health care professions nearing critical limits, the ability to expose students early to the opportunities is vital, said Rotary Quesnel President Elect, Tim Hall. "We believe in the strength of our local young people and we are proud to partner with UNBC, CNC, Northern Health and SD28 to provide our youth with this opportunity for success."    

As the program returns, Adventures in Health Care continues to play an important role in inspiring the next generation of health care professionals and strengthening the future of care in the North.

For more information on the program and alumni, visit Adventures in Health Care.