Tidelands Health helping students explore health care careers at unique expo this week in Myrtle Beach
Tidelands Health is helping students explore the range of career opportunities in health care through a unique, interactive expo in Myrtle Beach this week.
The health system is the presenting sponsor and organizer of the health science pathway at the Pathways2Possibilities career expo Wednesday and Thursday at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. Roughly 6,000 eighth graders are expected to attend, with nearly 20 career paths represented for them to explore.
As leader of the health science pathway, Tidelands Health is coordinating efforts among nearly a dozen organizations to help students learn about the range of career opportunities in the health care field. The health system’s role at the event is part of a continuing initiative to encourage students to consider careers in health care.
“A lot of the kids will be seeing jobs they never even knew were out there as career options,” said Alyx Prather, student program coordinator at Tidelands Health. “It really opens their eyes to the range of possibilities.”
Students who explore the health science pathway will be able to learn about nearly two dozen specialties in the field, including infection control, orthopedics and surgical services. The focus is on engaging the students through hands-on exhibits and activities.
“Students are drawn to the interactive activities offered at the Pathways2Possibilities expo,” said Jan Harper, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for Tidelands Health. “It truly gives students a unique perspective and a chance to engage in a way that’s not possible through discussion or written material alone.”
The expo is part of a comprehensive strategy at Tidelands Health to recruit and develop the next generation of health care workers. The health system offers a variety of ways to connect with students including the “Nurses are Extraordinary” program, which provides students a chance to visit hospitals and get a close look at the important work nurses perform. Tidelands Health also connects with students from eighth grade to high school seniors through STEM Premier, a digital platform that introduces students to potential health care career paths.
“The need for health care personnel is only going to increase as our region continues to grow,” Harper said. “We want to be an active partner in encouraging students to pursue health care careers to meet the anticipated need.”