Opportunities
Resources
Upcoming Events
What is an Opportunity?
The Opportunities listed below give middle school, high school and college-level students a hands-on experience as a health care professional. Opportunities take place at colleges, high schools, hospitals, and career and technical centers near you and may be geared towards specific ages, grades, or schools.
Opportunities in your Region:
Northern Vermont AHEC Pathways
SUMMER
The Institute on Health & Medicine
For Grades: 9-11
At this Institute you will:
- Explore careers in health science, research, and medicine.
- Practice hands-on medical skills like assessing vital signs and interviewing patients.
- Earn certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Emergency First Responder.
- Choose from a variety of hands-on lab activities and workshops led by health professionals and college faculty.
- Work closely with medical student mentors throughout the week.
- Have the time of your life!
For more information: Governor's Institutes of Vermont, Northern Vermont AHEC
ACADEMIC YEAR
HERO
For Grades: 9-12
HERO, which stands for Health Exploration Resources and Opportunities, is a no-cost 1-to-1 online mentoring program that pairs high school students with volunteer medical students trained in mentoring and STEM education. HERO is a unique opportunity for interested students to explore health career exploration tools, human anatomy and physiology, disease etiology, and community health topics. The goal of the program is to support science achievement and postsecondary pathway planning for Vermont teens.
The program is open to all 9th through 12th graders residing in Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orleans, Orange, and Washington Counties of Vermont.
Applications have closed for the 2024-2025 school year. Watch here for information next year!
Contact: Northern Vermont AHEC; Lanie Billings 802-748-2506 lbillings@nvtahec.org
Kingdom Career Connect
For Grade: 8
Kingdom Career Connect is an interactive career event at Vermont State University - Lyndon sponsored in partnership by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, Vermont State University, the J. Warren & Lois McClure Foundation, and the Northern Vermont AHEC. It is a unique opportunity for 8th grade students to have hands-on exploration of careers in advanced manufacturing, entrepreneurship, agriculture and health care.
Contact: Northern Vermont AHEC, Vermont State University
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTERS
Burlington Technical Center
Health Sciences Academy
This program immerses students in rigorous academics (anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, human growth and development and E.M.T. and phlebotomy certification), practical applications (medical assessment techniques, such as vital signs, reflex testing, goniometry, electrocardiography, diagnostic lab testing), and experiential learning (including dissections, job shadowing, simulated job interviews). Second semester seniors choose between completing their national certification for Emergency Medical Technician (E.M.T.) or phlebotomy (C.P.T.). Students are provided with guidance in the college application process and will also complete a workplace skills unit, geared to careers in health care, including job applications, resumes, cover letters, and interviews with UVM Medical Center recruiters.
Introduction to Healthcare
A one year, hands-on training program for a career in healthcare. Students will be prepared to enter directly into the workforce as a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) or pursue further education in the college setting. The study of anatomy & physiology will be the foundation for experiential learning such as dissections, patient care skills training in our simulated hospital room, and learning medical assessment techniques such as vital signs, blood glucose testing, and head to toe assessment. In addition, students will have 32 hours of clinical training in a local skilled nursing facility where they will practice patient care skills such as the use of wheelchairs, daily personal care, and working with memory impairment. Lastly, students will prepare for employment by exploring different career options within healthcare, preparing a resume and cover letter, and participating in interviews with potential employers.
Canaan Technical Center
Students in Emergency Services are provided with the basic instruction required for entry-level work or post-secondary training in the fields of Emergency Medical Services and Fire Science. Students will learn to demonstrate problem-solving and critical thinking skills to analyze, synthesize and evaluate situations independently and in teams.
They will apply emergency service response skills to manage an incident scene as a First Responder. Students will make informed, healthy choices that positively affect the health, safety and well-being of themselves and others.
Initial exploration of Emergency Service will include classroom work (lectures, readings, skills, and practicals) and visits with local experts in the field. Students may participate in a ride-along with local first responders and fire departments per the authority of the department chief’s permission and school administration. Embedded credits include: 1 Science credit and 1 Physical Education credit for those completing the two-year Fire program only. This program offers three options for students. All options offer dual enrollment college credits through Vermont Technical College (VTC).
Center for Technology, Essex
For Grades 10, 11, 12, and adults
Childhood Education and Human Services
Learn about child development and managing a classroom. Discover careers in human services including social work, psychology, teaching, child care worker and many others!
• Earn up to 9 college credits
• Take additional college classes through CCV
• Get a job working in a local daycare while you are still in high school!
• Be prepared to attend college or go straight into the workforce in a human services related field
• Second Year CE/HS students can spend senior year on paid internships with partnering employers. Get paid & earn credits at the same time!
Dental Assisting
If you have strong communication skills, enjoy working with your hands as well as your mind and are interested in a career with lots of responsibility, dental assisting is for you.
• Take additional college classes through CCV and earn college credits
• Earn certification for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation & Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED)
• Receive Dental Radiology certification at the conclusion of the program
• Become a student member of the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)
• Students have the opportunity to practice their dental assisting skills in local dental practices
Health Professions
The health professions program includes a significant amount of hands-on learning in clinical skills. You will also study medical terminology, healthcare financing, laws, and ethics, medical documentation, nutrition, wellness, and human anatomy and physiology. You will explore a variety of health-related careers working directly with patients, or in laboratories, or in medical offices. Students have an opportunity to participate in a career work experience at a local healthcare facility.
• Practice professional skills important for success in the medical field including teamwork, collaboration, and professional communication.
• Schedule patients and document medical treatments in an electronic health record.
• Prepare for success in college and career by writing cover letters and resumes, completing a job application, and practicing employment interviews.
• Take classes through Vermont Technical College and the Community College of Vermont and earn college credit.
Central Vermont Career Center, Barre
For Grades 10, 11, 12, and adults
Emergency Services
The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course prepares the EMT student to provide pre-hospital assessment and care for patients of all ages with a variety of medical conditions and traumatic injuries. Areas of study include an introduction to emergency medical services systems, roles and responsibilities of EMTs, anatomy and physiology, medical emergencies, trauma, special considerations for working in the prehospital setting, and providing patient transportation.
Students learn how to function as part of a comprehensive EMS response system and perform interventions with the equipment typically found on an ambulance. Students in the Emergency Services program train to become the critical link between the scene of an emergency and the health care system. Certifications: CPR/AED Certification (American Heart Association), Healthcare Basic Life Support, Emergency Medical Technician (National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians)
Medical Professions
The Medical Professions program introduces students to a variety of health occupations including nursing, emergency services, home health care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, surgical services, dental assisting, radiology, cardiology, and acute care experiences. Students will learn the foundational skills required in specific health occupations and will prepare for college coursework in a variety of medical fields. Students use state of the art 3D anatomy technology in the classroom to enhance the learning of the human body and body systems.
Through classroom instruction and clinical shadowing experiences students will learn functions and educational requirements of various health care team members, specific job skills common to patient care, knowledge of the human body and body systems, math skills used by today’s health care practitioners, medical terminology and communication skills in healthcare settings , and advanced health career exploration through clinical internship in acute care facilities, medical offices and clinics.
Cold Hollow Career Center, Enosburg Falls
For Grades 10, 11, 12, and adults
The Medical Careers Program is a two-year college preparatory program for students desiring careers in the medical field. In the 1st year students learn about history and trends of medical care, careers available, legal and ethical concerns, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, human growth and development, cultural diversity, geriatric care, infection control, First Aid, CPR, and computer technology. In the 2nd year students acquire skills as a medical assistant or nurse’s aide.
Green Mountain Technology and Career Center
For Grades 10, 11, 12
Allied Health
Introduces students to careers in the healthcare field, which are among the fastest growing, both locally and nationally. Students observe and practice entry-level skills through classroom and lab work at GMTCC and a clinical sites in area healthcare settings. Those who successfully complete the program meet entry-level requirements for a number of careers in the healthcare industry, and are on a pathway towards advanced certifications through college enrollment and beyond.
Lyndon Institute Career and Technical Education
For Grades 11, 12, and adults
Allied Health
Students will explore the health care field and understand the professional responsibilities of these jobs in planning, managing, and providing therapeutic services, diagnostic services, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development. As part of their learning, students have the opportunity to practice skills, apply research to problems, and work with the older adult population of the surrounding communities.
Students are exposed to safety, legal, and ethical issues involved in the health sciences, as well as working with diverse populations. Students may choose to earn their Licensed Nurse Assistant credential while in the program but may pursue college-level biology and other learning experiences to prepare them for careers in the health sciences.
Adult Education – Licensed Nursing Assistant
LNAs provide basic nursing care in assisting others with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting and obtaining vital signs as well as many other tasks. LNAs may work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, home health agencies, schools, and other health care settings. The Lyndon Institute Adult Continuing Education LNA program partners with area agencies for the clinical training portion of the class.
North Country Career Center
For Grades 11, 12
Health Sciences
Health Sciences I includes anatomy & physiology, human growth and development, infection control, legal responsibilities, medical terminology, job safety, employability skills, and much more related to the health care industry. A clinical component is included to provide practical experience in many health care areas including (but not limited to) nursing, physical therapy, radiology, respiratory therapy, dental care, nutrition, surgical services, veterinary science and other related areas.
In Health Sciences II students continue to expand skills and career path options and choose between Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) or dual enrollment in the Human Growth and Development course; all students study Medical Terminology for optional dual enrollment credit.
Human Services
This program is designed to prepare students for further education and career paths in early childhood education, health care, social services, and related fields. This program focuses on key components of human development from conception through end of life. Other areas explored include nutrition, health, unique populations, and workplace readiness skills as well as preparing for a career in the Human Services field. Through research and study, students will develop the knowledge and skills to effectively work with children and families. Students will also learn to organize lesson plans, activities and appropriate environments to promote positive physical, emotional, intellectual and social growth in children. The second-year curriculum includes an option for dual enrollment credit through the Health Sciences 2 Human Growth and Development class (with the recommendation of the teacher). Students will have an opportunity to learn about and explore the career options in the field of Human Services, such as Teacher, School Counselor, Mental Health Worker or Case Manager, and Individual or Family Therapist.
Northwest Technical Center, St. Albans
For Grades 11, 12
Human Services
In this college prep level program, students will learn about working with people of all ages through experience, community involvement, and classroom instruction. This program prepares students for careers as teachers, counselors, social workers, day care providers, geriatric service providers and workers in the health care and mental health fields. Upon completion of this program, students will be prepared to enter either college or the workforce. Credentials include Bloodborne Pathogens; CPR/AED First Aid; VT Mandated Reporter Training; Youth Mental Health First Aid
Medical Professions
This upper level program is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine, nursing, physical therapy, radiologic imaging, laboratory technology, dental hygiene, veterinary medicine, sports medicine, or other healthcare disciplines. Students will explore the symptoms of disease and wellness that may occur in the human body during a person’s life. These students will also have field placements in local medical facilities to help them apply their academic learning to real life situations.
Credentials: Licensed Nurse Assistant (LNA); Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT); CPR/AED; First Aid; Bloodborne Pathogens; National Career Readiness Certificate; Stop the Bleed
Public Safety & Fire Services
This course is designed to meet the needs of students who are interested in becoming career or volunteer Fire Fighters, Emergency Medical Technicians, Paramedics, Fire Inspectors, Police Officers, Border Patrol Officers, etc. The program focuses on gaining hands-on training with an emphasis on ethical behavior and the importance of volunteerism.
Credentials: CPR/AED (Red Cross); First Aid; Firefighter I; Emergency Medical Responder; Incident Command System 100 (FEMA), 200, 700; Highway Safety; Wildland Fire Control; Professional Rescuers; Hazardous Materials Operations; National Career Readiness Certificate
Randolph Technical Career Center
For Grades 11, 12
Dental Assisting
This program prepares students to provide patient care, conduct dental x-rays, prepare patients and equipment for dental procedures, and discharge office administrative functions under the supervision of dentists and dental hygienists. Students have the opportunity to practice their skills in our school-based lab and at local dental practices.
Health Careers
The Technical Health Careers program includes coursework on such topics as anatomy and physiology, first aid and advanced life support, patient care and communication, medical terminology, safety, as well as fundamental healthcare competencies. Graduates are prepared to enter a two- or four-year college program and are equally prepared for entry level into a variety of healthcare workforce positions after high school. Certifications: Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA), First Aid and CPR
River Bend Career and Technical Center
Emergency Services and Fire Management
The adrenaline rush for students training to save lives in the Emergency Services field has few equals in the world of work. Firefighters and EMT professionals provide essential critical responses to people in crisis. Sick and injured people depend on a highly skilled, highly trained workforce to provide emergency care to survive natural disasters, traumatic crashes and accidents, and life-saving care and transportation in medical emergencies. Certifications in EMT, Firefighter 1, and college credits support a dynamic academic and practical curricula.
Health Sciences
Medical career training at River Bend’s college preparatory Health Science Technology program offers students a fast track to a science related field. The labs, internships, and 12-credits of college coursework in the study of the human body, medical terminology, nutrition, and psychology are supplemented by clinical skills. Training opportunities at area hospitals, nursing homes, veterinary hospitals, and doctors’ offices provide real-world experiences that lead students down the path toward the medical careers that continue to offer rewarding work in high-demand industries.
St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Education
The Emergency Medical Technician course prepares the student to provide pre-hospital assessment and care for patients of all ages with a variety of medical conditions and traumatic injuries. Areas of study include an introduction to emergency medical services systems, roles and responsibilities of EMTs, anatomy and physiology, medical emergencies, trauma, special considerations for working in the pre-hospital setting, and providing patient transportation. The course is meant for both those students that are new to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) systems and those that have obtained EMR licensure. EMT is the primary licensure for any transporting EMS service.
You must turn 18 prior to the last day of the class in order to enroll!
St. Johnsbury Academy Career and Technical Education
For Grades 10, 11, 12
Human Services
Human Services courses prepare students for careers in the profession including social services, public safety, child development, early childhood education, health careers, and geriatrics. An important part of the Human Services program focuses on internships in the community.
University of New England - Health Careers Exploration Camp
For Grades: 10 11 12
Every year, the University of New England hosts a free health career exploration camp for high school students from rural or underserved communities to participate in hands-on activities to learn about careers in health care. In addition, they learn about the college admissions process.
During the camp, students learn about careers in dental hygiene, dental medicine, osteopathic medicine, neuroscience, neurodevelopmental and related disabilities treatment, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant, and public health.
Applications are accepted from students throughout the US. Maine students from rural and underserved communities and those who have more limited access to such opportunities will be given priority consideration.
Contact: Zoe Hull zhull@une.edu
https://www.une.edu/ahec/health-careers-exploration-camp
Mt. Ascutney Hospital - Daring to Care
This seven week program at Mt. Ascutney Hospital is offered during the summer each year and is open to junior and senior high school students in the Upper Valley area.
As a Daring to Care volunteer, you’ll learn firsthand what it’s like to work in a busy, modern hospital, assisting patients, families and staff every day – and gaining experience that will enhance your high school resume and college application. Daring to Care volunteers attend classes in basic health care skills such as communication, confidentiality, and more. Following 15 hours of classroom work, students then have the opportunity to volunteer for rotations in various hospital departments and long-term care settings.
Dartmouth High School Summer Internship Program
The Dartmouth Health High School Foundations Summer Internship Program combines paid work, professional development, mentoring, and experiential learning into a robust summer experience. Its goal is to spark a lasting interest in the many career pathways available in the healthcare industry while also offering you the opportunity to practice important workplace skills.
This program is for students going into their junior or senior year of high school and local or regional to the Dartmouth Health System.
https://dhwri.org/internship-programs/high-school-summer-internships-program/
CDC Museum Public Health Academy
The CDC Museum Public Health Academy Online Summer Course is a web-based course with both synchronous and asynchronous components. The course reflects the museum’s mission of educating the public about CDC’s work. Admission is open to high-school students during the summer before their junior or senior years.
https://www.cdc.gov/museum/education/online-learning/
Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)
College Freshmen and Sophomores
A free summer program for students to explore their interests in medicine, dentistry, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, public health, and more. The program takes place at 12 partner institutions across the US and offers students a chance to develop healthcare skills, plan academic journeys, get clinical exposure, and network.
For more information, contact your regional AHEC:
Northern Vermont AHEC
www.nvtahec.org
802-748-2506
Southern Vermont AHEC
www.svtahec.org
802-885-2126