WCCD Holds Fall Health Sciences Simulation Clinic for Local First Graders

Students in the WCCD Practical Nursing program teach healthy eating habits at the 2025 SIM Clinic.

Wallace Community College-Dothan (WCCD) welcomed approximately 1,000 first-grade students from eight area elementary schools for the Health Sciences Simulation Clinic (SIM Clinic), held October 20–24, 2025, at the Heersink Family Health Sciences Building on the Wallace Campus in Dothan.

The SIM Clinic was a fun and interactive event that brought WCCD’s “Health Sciences Superheroes” together with young students to teach the importance of good health and wellness, while also sparking interest in future careers in healthcare.

Throughout the week, first graders participated in engaging, hands-on activities led by WCCD health sciences faculty and students. Lessons included nutrition, exercise, hygiene, and safety, as well as healthcare and safety interventions such as how X-rays work, preventing asthma attacks and using inhalers, and what goes on during surgery.

The SIM Clinic also benefited Wallace students, who gained valuable experience in communicating with patients of all ages and learning how to explain healthcare practices in clear, approachable ways.“SIM Clinic gives children an idea of what different health professions are available as careers in a fun and educational way. The kids enjoy this a lot and hopefully they leave with a great learning experience,” said Shelley Aho, LPN to RN Mobility student. “My grandchildren who have been through it love it; they want to be able to come back every year!” she added.

Faculty and students from Associate Degree Nursing, Emergency Medical Services, Medical Assisting, Physical Therapist Assistant, Practical Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Therapist, and Surgical Technology programs participated in the event.