Published Nov. 13, 2009 
Josh Peterson, KVEW TV Reporter

RICHLAND -- About 300 Mid-Columbia high school students eager to make a difference in the health community filled Columbia Basin College's Health Science Center in Richland today.

They learned about different career opportunities in the industry, and got some hands-on experience from upcoming professionals.

"I just wanna change people's lives. Like if somebody couldn't walk, I'd really love to just be there at a rehabilitation center, and that would be amazing to help somebody walk again" said Taylie Chaffin, 11th grader.

More than 20 health care workers from local hospitals, clinics and emergency service agencies attended the event.

They say there's always a need for new employees in the health industry, and the growing Tri-Cities is a strong place to start their professional lives.

"This is a terrific community for these young kids to explore those career paths" said John Boardman, Richland Fire Dept.

Students know the road to reaching their career goals will be long and expensive, but they say it will be all worth it when they're improving the health of the community.

"Even though the economy is getting bad, I'm still gonna push myself to help them out and do what I can do best for them. Because the children are our future and I wanna help them more" Yumi Henchi, 11th grader.