As a high school student, you're likely no stranger to thinking about your future career. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which path to take. If you're interested in the healthcare field, you're not alone. Health careers offer a wide range of opportunities for individuals who are passionate about helping others and making a difference in their communities. In this article, we'll explore the various health careers available to high school students, discuss the benefits of starting early, and provide guidance on how to get started.
Health careers encompass a broad spectrum of professions, from doctors and nurses to allied health professionals, such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, and medical laboratory technicians. These careers require a strong foundation in sciences, critical thinking, and communication skills. By exploring health careers in high school, you can gain a better understanding of the various options available and take the first steps towards a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Why Explore Health Careers in High School?
There are many reasons why high school students should consider exploring health careers. For one, the healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the US, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 15% increase in healthcare employment from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by an aging population, an increased focus on healthcare, and advances in medical technology.
Another reason to explore health careers in high school is that it allows you to gain a head start on your education and training. Many health careers require advanced degrees or certifications, and by starting early, you can get a jumpstart on your studies and gain valuable experience in the field.
Health Careers to Consider
So, what health careers are available to high school students? Here are a few options to consider:
- Physician Assistant (PA): PAs work under the supervision of physicians to provide medical care to patients. To become a PA, you’ll need to earn a master’s degree in physician assistant studies.
- Registered Nurse (RN): RNs provide hands-on care to patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. To become an RN, you’ll need to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Occupational Therapist (OT): OTs help patients develop skills for daily living and work. To become an OT, you’ll need to earn a master’s degree in occupational therapy.
- Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT): MLTs conduct tests and analyze samples to help diagnose and treat diseases. To become an MLT, you’ll need to earn an associate’s degree in medical laboratory technology.
- Health careers offer a wide range of opportunities for individuals who are passionate about helping others and making a difference in their communities.
- The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the US, with a 15% increase in healthcare employment predicted from 2020 to 2030.
- Exploring health careers in high school allows you to gain a head start on your education and training.
- Health careers require a strong foundation in sciences, critical thinking, and communication skills.
- There are many health careers to consider, including physician assistant, registered nurse, occupational therapist, and medical laboratory technician.
| Health Career | Education Requirements | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant | Master's degree | $108,610 |
| Registered Nurse | Associate's or bachelor's degree | $76,840 |
| Occupational Therapist | Master's degree | $84,950 |
| Medical Laboratory Technician | Associate's degree | $51,670 |
Key Points
Getting Started
So, how can you get started exploring health careers in high school? Here are a few steps to take:
First, research different health careers to learn more about the various options available. You can use online resources, such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the American Medical Association, to learn more about different careers.
Next, talk to healthcare professionals to gain a better understanding of what each career entails. You can ask questions, shadow professionals, or volunteer at hospitals or clinics to get hands-on experience.
Finally, take relevant courses to build your skills and knowledge. Many high schools offer courses in sciences, such as biology and chemistry, which can help prepare you for a career in healthcare.
Conclusion
Exploring health careers in high school is a great way to get a head start on your education and training. By researching different careers, talking to healthcare professionals, and taking relevant courses, you can gain a better understanding of the various options available and take the first steps towards a rewarding and fulfilling career.
What are some popular health careers for high school students?
+Some popular health careers for high school students include physician assistant, registered nurse, occupational therapist, and medical laboratory technician.
What kind of education and training do I need for a health career?
+The education and training required for a health career vary depending on the profession. Many health careers require advanced degrees or certifications, while others may require associate’s or bachelor’s degrees.
How can I get experience in the healthcare field as a high school student?
+You can get experience in the healthcare field as a high school student by volunteering at hospitals or clinics, shadowing healthcare professionals, or taking relevant courses.
