From high school to hospital: how early exposure to healthcare affects adolescent career ideas.

Abstract

Exposure to various healthcare fields is crucial to the development of career interests for adolescents and young adults who plan to enter the world of medical practice. Globally, the number of opportunities for high school students to participate in research and clinical shadowing (direct observation of medical or paramedical practice) are limited.1 Recently however, many university programs and community hospitals in the United States and around the world have initiated interest programs for such students, allowing them to see, first-hand, the daily lives of health professionals. With the advent of specialized high school volunteering programs within hospitals and medical centers, teenage interest in pursuing a medical education has increased.2 Volunteering activities and adolescent development In general, volunteering at a young age has shown to improve educational pursuits, and to boost a student’s moral consideration.3 Involvement in organized activities, particularly in interpersonal settings correlates with “positive development” in the classroom and at home.3 Participation in any volunteering program helps an adolescent learn responsibility and empathy, alongside relationship-building and community connection.3 For the many students who consider entering the healthcare field, early exposure to careers and professionals that collaborate to treat patients is vital to a well-rounded education. As such, student involvement in hospital-organized programs is encouraged for anyone interested in medicine.