In efforts to support our Napartet Strategy of developing a strong Alaska Native workforce, high school students are provided with exposure to health careers though job shadowing, facility tours, internships, student hire programs and other activities to support their interest in health professions.

This week we feature Kathryn Black, a former Community Health Aide Program (CHAP) student hire who worked in the immunization department in her senior year at high school. Kathryn is now a health aide trainee at Napakiak. 

“I loved working in the morning at CHAP while in high school because of the experience and the people I met. They helped me to stay motivated me to go after my dreams to become a health aide.” Kathryn Black

What motivated you to pursue a job while in high school?

What motivated me to pursue a job while working in high school that I was able to experience a real workplace that is really not offered in the village. I was so excited to get a job that was flexible and accommodated my school schedule. Another reason is that I was able finally able to earn and manage my own income, and become more independent. Having a job also made my parents proud and happy.

How has your student hire experience helped you to transition into the work world since you graduated?

The student hire experience helped me a lot to transition into the work world by helping me with computer skills, time management, how to manage my income, social skills, and how to interview and talk to people. It also helped me with essential skills such as communication with co-workers, problem-solving, and how to handle criticism. This was a great experience because it helped me feel more confident in a work environment and directed me to the job that I have now. Overall the work experience in high school taught me valuable lessons and skills that benefited me after I graduated.

What advice would you give high school juniors and seniors?

I would say take advantage of the work opportunities and everything that is offered in high school as you never know what skills you will gain in those experiences. And you never know if those experiences/lessons will help you in the long run.

What are your career goals?

My career goal is to become a community health practitioner (CHP) and to grow as a community health aide (CHA). Someday I want to take college classes. While I am a CHA, I will work on expanding my knowledge and learning as much as I can to help me with future goals.

What are you learning from your current role as a CHA Trainee?

I am learning that it takes a lot to be a CHA, even as a trainee. I am still learning and adjusting. Being a CHA comes with great experiences and requires a lot out of you. A CHA is very important job to the community. I’m happy that I’m making a difference in the community.