Over 600 students explore medical careers at Pittsburgh fair

In Pittsburgh, United States, more than 600 students gathered for a unique career fair that focused on opportunities within the medical field. This event, organized by UPMC, took place on a Wednesday at Acrisure Stadium, where students engaged in hands-on activities to explore 50 different healthcare careers. They measured health metrics such as blood cell counts and heart rates using modern equipment like microscopes and Bluetooth stethoscopes, offering them a practical experience that enriched their understanding of medical roles. The fair not only showcased traditional health professions, such as nursing and pharmacy, but also highlighted less conventional roles including those in actuary and legal departments within medical settings. UPMC's Human Resources representative, Erin Viale, described the array of job options as encompassing both direct patient care and supportive roles that are crucial to healthcare delivery. Attendees such as West Allegheny High School senior Sarah Lowman recounted fascinating experiences, like manipulating tools to navigate through real pig lungs, which provided insight into respiratory health and anatomy. Students such as Serenity Adams from Carrick High School expressed interest in pursuing careers like anesthesiology and noted the fair’s relevance to their personal experiences, particularly when learning about pharmacy practices and insulin administration. Many students discovered that a significant number of health-related jobs do not necessitate a four-year college degree and that UPMC offers programs to support their academic expenses while they gain work experience. This realization sparked conversations among students about balancing financial concerns with their educational aspirations. The dedicated activities and interactive format of this career fair demonstrated the importance of practical learning and community engagement. UPMC aims to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals by bridging the gap between students and the medical field, fostering interest in various careers, and hopefully aiding students in securing their future paths in an increasingly vital industry. As young attendees navigated through the exhibits and discussions, they were encouraged to find their passions and envision themselves as future contributors to the healthcare workforce.