For teens considering a hospital career, the Bermuda Hospitals Auxiliary Candy Stripers Programme offers valuable hands-on experience.

Although the guidelines are strict, the programme allots time for both education and fun.

All students between the ages of 14 and 18 are eligible to become volunteer Candy Stripers as long as they show dedication toward their duties.

These include working in various areas of the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital such as patient wards and coffee shop.

They must also show a responsible attitude by turning up for work on time and dressing smartly.

Seventeen-year-old Sabrina Famous, who was awarded Top Candy Striper last year, described the programme as an excellent opportunity for young people to give back to the community, and learn a few things as well.

"If you are not involved then you're missing out,'' she said. "Candy Striping is morally good for you because you're helping other people who need it.'' Having been in the programme for three years, Sabrina is now certain she wants to pursue a career in medicine.

"Being a Candy Striper has given me an idea of what goes on in different areas of the hospital,'' she explained. "But, I am still undecided on what field I want to be in exactly.'' Even so, Sabrina said she valued her experiences at KEMH and would encourage others to join the programme.

Potential Candy Stripers are recruited in the spring so as to begin work in either July or August.

Interviews are held in May with three Saturday orientation sessions scheduled for June.

The teens are then given an introductory tour of the hospital and meet with the Pink Ladies and Gentlemen who will assist in their training.

All Candy Stripers must sign an important confidentiality form that states they will treat any information regarding patients as strictly private.

The teens are required to wear an official Candy Stripers uniform and volunteer their services for one month of their summer holiday, during both Christmas and Easter breaks as well as on alternative Saturdays of the school term.

Candy Stripers are also invited to attend educational lectures on various hospital careers and in-depth tours of hospital departments.

For further information contact Penny Ray at KEMH on 236-2345.