On December 4, 2024, students from South Central High School filled the La Porte Civic Auditorium, eagerly exploring a world of possibilities in healthcare. The Youth Healthcare Career Expo, a three day event for La Porte County students from third to 12th grade organized by VicTory 4 Kidz, offered an immersive experience featuring interactive displays, hands-on simulations, and networking opportunities with professionals from a range of medical fields. This year, more than 1,100 students attended the event.
Dozens of healthcare organizations set up booths designed to educate and inspire, including opportunities to practice CPR, explore medical technology, and learn about various healthcare roles. For students contemplating their futures, the expo provided a chance to connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
Nick Mills, principal of South Central High School, stressed the value of such events in complementing traditional education.
"I think it culminates a lot of the practices we are doing daily in the classroom," he said. "It allows students to see things in full light – what they're learning day in and day out has real-world applications."
One of the most popular attractions was the booth from Northwest Health - La Porte, where Chief Nursing Officer Gena DeMuth and her team showcased CPR manikins – including a baby manakin – and a defibrillator. Students were able to practice CPR techniques and learn how to operate defibrillators, tools now common in schools thanks to the addition of AED devices.
"We want them to see and touch these things," DeMuth said. "Using the simulators, they can see how blood flows to the brain. We want them to understand the importance of CPR. Seeing their ‘aha’ moments when they learn something new is inspiring. That's why we do this."
Many of the students in attendance are participants in South Central High School’s health and biomedical sciences program, led by teacher Emma Wiegel. She highlighted the importance of teaching students essential interpersonal skills alongside technical knowledge.
"We talk a lot about communication and empathy when working with patients. For example, there’s a whole unit on how to communicate bad news to families," Wiegel said. "Of course, book smarts are important, but people skills are just as critical in healthcare."
Wiegel also encouraged students to explore various career paths in healthcare, emphasizing the demand for skilled workers and the opportunities for growth.
"The industry is booming, and there are so many options," Wiegel said.
The diversity of roles within the healthcare industry was a key takeaway for students as they were introduced to paths they may not have previously considered. One such field is behavioral analysis, presented by Dr. Sammika Cosey, a board-certified behavior analyst.
Dr. Cosey shared her personal journey, explaining how her family experiences and challenges as a teacher led her to pursue a career in behavioral analytics.
"Growing up, my uncle had autism, but I didn’t know what it was. Later, as a teacher, I realized I didn’t have the tools to help my students with autism properly," Cosey said. "That’s what led me to this field - to make a difference."
For students considering healthcare careers, Dr. Cosey emphasized the importance of passion.
"Dig deep and find something you would do for free," she said. "It’s not about how much you’ll be paid – it’s about finding joy and fulfillment in what you do."
She also encouraged students to engage in research, connect with mentors, and explore healthcare fields through hands-on experiences like the expo.
"Many students don’t know what’s out there until they attend events like this. It opens their eyes to new opportunities," Cosey said.
The mental health aspect of healthcare was also highlighted by LaTanya Woodson, director of Community Health Education at Edgewater Health. She noted that mental health awareness has grown among younger generations, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"So many students went through mental health challenges themselves or saw family members struggling," Woodson said. "We have to normalize talking about mental health and self-care. When we do that, we take away the stigma and open doors for careers in the mental health field."
Students were encouraged to network with exhibitors, ask questions, and learn about the training and skills required for various roles. Questions ranged from the types of equipment used by professionals to the educational pathways needed to succeed.
"This expo helps students see that there’s something for everyone whether they want to work directly with patients, behind the scenes in research, or in administrative roles," Wiegel said.
As students networked with professionals, tried out medical simulations, and explored career paths, their excitement only grew stronger. The expo not only provided practical insights but also inspired many to pursue their passions in healthcare.
DeMuth, reflecting on her own journey, offered encouragement to students still considering their paths.
"It’s never too late to enter healthcare," said DeMuth. "Whether you’re interested in forensics, photography, or nursing, there’s a place for you in this field."
The Youth Healthcare Career Expo left a lasting impact on the students, sparking curiosity and ambition as they looked toward their futures.
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