By Enjoli Pescheta, Dean’s Office

Over 100 high school students from three distinct districts were greeted with enthusiasm as they arrived for the College of Health and Human Sciences’ Health Programs Preview Day on Friday, May 3rd, 2024. This initiative, launched by the College last year, aims to introduce students to various health-related careers and instill in them the importance of pursuing higher education in these fields from as early as their sophomore year of high school. After the success of last year’s inaugural Health Programs Preview Day with Andrew Hill High School, the College expanded our pipeline programming to include San Jose High School and Milpitas Dual Enrollment School.

Led by our dedicated student ambassadors, the eager participants began their day with a comprehensive tour of San Jose State University’s vibrant campus. Along the way, they were introduced to the vast number of resources available to students and the community at large. This immersive experience allowed the students to envision themselves as integral members of the Spartan Community, fostering a sense of belonging and aspiration.

After the campus tour, the students engaged in interactive discussions with faculty members and current students at our resource fair, gaining valuable insights into the diverse array of health programs offered at the College of Health and Human Sciences and in partnership with the Department of Psychology and Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences. From nursing to public health, the students were exposed to the multitude of opportunities awaiting them in the field of healthcare.

Following the resource fair, the high school attendees headed to the dining commons to have lunch with their peers. Student ambassadors joined them at their tables, giving the high school students an opportunity to gain knowledge and insight into campus life.

Once the students were done eating lunch, they were divided into smaller groups to explore specific health related departments. During each department visit, students had the opportunity to interact with professors, ask questions, and participate in hands-on activities related to the field.

As the day came to a close, it became evident that the Health Programs Preview Day was not just a college campus visit, but rather a pivotal stepping stone in the educational journey of these young students. With newfound knowledge and inspiration, the high school students departed with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to pursue their academic and professional passions in the realm of health and human sciences.