Future healers: Hazelton students explore careers in medicine

In Hazelton, a number of students are setting their sights on careers in healthcare, driven by a passion for helping others and a strong awareness of the growing need for medical professionals. As healthcare evolves, so too does the path into the field — providing a variety of entry points for young people, from traditional roles like doctors and nurses to newer specialties in technology and mental health.

A growing interest in medicine

Students in local schools are increasingly expressing interest in healthcare careers, a trend encouraged by educators, parents and community leaders who understand the value of a steady, meaningful profession. Whether it's inspired by personal experience, family influence or the pandemic's spotlight on healthcare workers, many teens are exploring what it takes to become the next generation of healers.

Career days, mentorship programs and shadowing opportunities help students see firsthand what it means to work in medicine. Some start early, volunteering at clinics or nursing homes, while others enroll in health science classes or after-school programs that provide a basic introduction to anatomy, patient care and public health.

Exploring the many paths

While most people think of doctors and nurses first when imagining medical careers, students in Hazelton are learning that the field is much broader than that. Careers in pharmacy, radiology, medical laboratory science, physical therapy and emergency medical services are gaining popularity among young people who want to make a difference but may not be drawn to the traditional roles.

In addition, more students are considering mental health professions like psychiatry, counseling and social work. With increasing awareness of mental wellness in schools and the community, the demand for professionals in these areas has become clear — and students are paying attention.

Technology-based healthcare careers are also rising in interest. Fields like medical coding, telehealth coordination, health informatics and biomedical equipment support offer ways to work in healthcare without directly treating patients. For students interested in both healthcare and computers, these careers offer the best of both worlds.

Hands-on experience at the local level

In Hazelton, students benefit from community partnerships that offer hands-on experience and training. Local hospitals, clinics and health organizations often provide internships, volunteer positions or training programs designed to give youth a realistic sense of what the job entails. These opportunities also help build professional relationships and confidence.

Some local high schools now offer career and technical education (CTE) programs in health sciences, allowing students to graduate with certifications like CPR, first aid or even nursing assistant credentials. These early steps into healthcare can serve as a launchpad for further study after graduation.

Non-traditional routes to medicine

Not all future healthcare workers begin their journeys straight out of high school. Many adults in the Hazelton area are making mid-life career changes into the medical field. Some are drawn to nursing after years in different industries, while others pursue allied health roles after serving as caregivers for family members. Programs like online and accelerated study options help make these transitions more manageable.

One example is the rise in interest in earning an ABSN degree in PA — a second-degree nursing program designed for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These programs offer an intensive, fast-track path into the field of nursing, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. The flexibility and speed of these programs make them a great fit for career changers who want to enter the healthcare workforce without starting from scratch.

Looking ahead

Healthcare will continue to be a vital part of Hazelton's future, and today's students are preparing to play a key role in it. Whether through traditional classroom learning, technical training, or non-traditional routes, these young people are gaining the knowledge and experience needed to care for others — and they're doing it with heart.

From emergency rooms to mental health clinics, labs to rehabilitation centers, Hazelton's future healers are exploring a wide range of paths to make their mark in medicine. Their reasons vary, but their mission is clear: to heal, to serve, and to make a difference right where they live.