UK Healthcare Scholars to Hear From Professionals via DHP Program

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Clinical practice? Research? Healthcare innovation?

No matter the interest, local high schoolers will be learning about healthcare careers this week — thanks to the Discovery Healthcare Program.

On Thursday, the University of Kentucky’s Discovery Healthcare Program will host the Bryan Station High School Networking Event, from 6-8 p.m. at the high school. Check in starts at 5:30 p.m. and food and drink will be provided.

This inspiring networking event will feature professionals from various healthcare fields coming together to share their passion, expertise, and personal journeys. And it will allow UK Healthcare Scholars to hear firsthand from industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into different healthcare careers.

“This event will empower the Scholars to explore diverse pathways and create a vision for their future in healthcare,” said Randa Remer, Executive Director of the Discovery Healthcare Program.

The mission of the Discovery Healthcare Program is to diversify healthcare professions by partnering with high school students who possess diverse life experiences and perspectives. The DHP is dedicated to empowering the students through support, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities, with a goal to assist them in their transition from high school to college and, ultimately, into healthcare professions.

“We believe that everyone deserves a chance to explore their potential in the healthcare field,” Remer said.

The students in the program, known as Healthcare Scholars, are excited about the possibilities.

“I want to be a part of the networking event because it’s an opportunity to learn more about the many professions in healthcare — not just being a doctor or a nurse, but to also learn the roles of healthcare administration and leadership/management,” said Charly Gowing, a junior Healthcare Scholar. “What I hope to get out of this event is to take advantage of getting to know the healthcare professionals, their personal successes, downfalls and getting where they are now in the healthcare industry. I hope others can make strong connections that can be used in the future to encourage collaboration and open doors to exciting new opportunities.”

“I enjoy taking part of this event because it helps me see what others have done with their education, past college, and lets me know what connections I can be making that will help me later in life,” said Riley Poll, a senior.

Angela Angulo Rugerio, also a senior, said she hopes to be part of a greater network of people.

“My goal is to learn from those we meet and at one point get to help others like me,” she said.

Stacey Middleton, the Academic Intervention Coordinator and DHP coordinator/liaison at Bryan Station High School, says she hopes the students take of advantage of the opportunities presented to them, and “learn as much as they can from the professionals who are generously offering their time.”

“Making connections and opening doors for students who have not had similar opportunities allows us to lay a solid foundation of mentoring and networking that will lead to positive outcomes in high school, postsecondary education, and in their professional lives,” Middleton said. “The students overwhelmingly report that this event is the one they see as most valuable year after year.”

Just ask the students themselves.

“I’d like to add that DHP has been a wonderful experience for me,” said Charly Gowing. “I’ve acquired so many new skills that I will be using in the future, and I have made unforgettable memories to look back on!”

Angela Angulo Rugerio agreed.

“Without DHP, I would probably be lost and very worried about my future,” she said.