Students Explore Health Careers at AdventHealth
KILLEEN, TEX. – During the spring semester, AdventHealth Central Texas welcomed 30 students from Shoemaker High School who want to pursue careers in the medical field.
The initiative’s purpose was to spark curiosity and expose students to the workings of a hospital while connecting aspiring health care professionals with experienced medical staff. The students explored clinical and nonclinical careers, including nursing, marketing, management and volunteerism.
The day began with a video about empathy work in a hospital and a question-and-answer session. Students interacted directly with hospital executives and physicians, including Jennifer Swenson, president and CEO of AdventHealth Central Texas, who shared her story. In addition to offering personal insights, the team made space for students to voice their own aspirations and concerns.
“The students were very engaged throughout the entire day and made the most of the opportunities to ask our team members questions,” said Tanner Carlson, marketing manager at AdventHealth Central Texas.
Following the Q&A, students went on guided tours of key hospital departments, including the emergency department, catheterization lab and imaging suite. These immersive experiences allowed students to observe new technology and understand the critical roles of different medical professionals across the hospital.
“My students were overjoyed and energized by everything they learned,” said Chelsea Hutchison, health science teacher at Shoemaker High School. “It reinforced for me that we have students who are eager to learn and grow. It also showed me that I am making a meaningful impact in their lives and, most importantly, that AdventHealth truly cares about its community and future health care leaders by investing in experiences like this.”
AdventHealth Central Texas remains committed to supporting educational outreach and inspiring the next generation of medical professionals. By opening its doors to local students, the hospital hopes to foster a lasting impact on the community and help shape the future of health care in Central Texas.
