As Career Partners’ career exploration programs have grown, so has the opportunity to introduce students to potential career pathways earlier in their education.
After Healthcare Day proved successful with Culpeper County Public Schools high school students, eighth grade students interested in healthcare were invited to participate in the virtual event. Dozens of middle school students gathered in their school library to hear directly from healthcare professionals and gain a behind-the-scenes look at careers within UVA Culpeper Medical Center.
Introducing these experiences before high school can be especially valuable as students begin making decisions about their academic and career pathways. Culpeper County middle school students also tour the Culpeper Technical Education Center (CTEC), where they learn about the career and technical education programs that will become available to them in high school.
Opportunities such as Healthcare Day and Manufacturing & Construction Day give eighth grade students additional context as they consider programs including Medical Assistant, Healthcare Technician, Emergency Medical Technician, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricity, and other career-focused pathways.
By introducing students to local industries, professionals, and educational opportunities before they enter high school, Career Partners helps students begin connecting their interests with the choices that can prepare them for future careers.
