First year students in the Health Occupations program at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES were recently celebrated at a Certification Ceremony.

Before an audience of proud family members and friends, 23 students were recognized for completing the first year of the program. Instructor Robin McKay provided a heart-felt opening statement at the ceremony, followed by student speakers Connor Lang and Riley Phelps providing some insight on what they learned this year.

“My time in this program has been amazing. I would like to thank my teachers and peers, who have made it easier for me to adjust to a healthcare setting,” said Lang. “Having this experience has made all of us want to continue in the medical field.”

Phelps said the program not only aided the student’s growth, but also provided them with an opportunity to give back to the community.

“Through this program, we have had the privilege to assist first-hand in local nursing homes and gain experience with home care,” Phelps said.           

Each student was then presented with certificates signifying the completion of the first year of the program. Academic Achievement Awards were also presented to select students.