BISMARCK, ND - Over 500 high school students from the surrounding 100-mile radius plan to attend the upcoming 2012 Health Careers Day sponsored St. Alexius Medical Center and the University of Mary School of Health Sciences. That large number indicates how popular the various health care fields are among college-bound students in our area.

The Health Care Career Day, to be held at Mary Thursday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Leach Field House, features exhibits from these various allied health careers: radiologic technology, occupational therapy, rehab services (occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech), exercise science, athletic training, respiratory care, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, emergency services, clinical lab science, dietary, and biomedical services.

"This is a great opportunity for motivated and ambitious high school students to get a head start with their career path in health care," noted Cheryl Kalberer, coordinator of the Emerging Leaders Academy. "Students will have a chance to tour the booths and interact with the professionals. Also, they can check out opportunities to participate in health careers and leadership activities sponsored by students in the School of Health Sciences Emerging Leaders Academy."