High School Career Academy

A high school student stands in an auditorium. She is wearing a mask and a cardigan sweater.

November - April

This program is available to high school students who are enrolled in Columbus City and Reynoldsburg school districts (students enrolled in a Career Center are not eligible). This six-month, after-school program introduces students to various health care careers through paid shadowing experiences, with the opportunity to obtain industry-recognized credentials. 

Students will be required to attend two sessions per month and will earn $12 per hour.

Program elements include but are not limited to:

  • Medical terminology, HIPAA and CPR training
  • Will earn the Ohio Means Job readiness seal
  • Will learn how certifications lead to career pathways at Nationwide Children’s
  • Opportunities to meet with clinical staff from various in-demand departments
  • Gain hands-on experience in an environment that develops leadership character and confidence towards navigating a successful health care career
  • Will learn about employer tuition assistance for education and career advancement

Registration for this program is now closed.

For more information, please contact Wendy at HNHFWorkforce@NationwideChildrens.org.

2022-2023 Program Highlights

Program Impact
High School Career Academy group photo on a stage

2022-23 Program:

  • 26 students participated
  • 10 health care careers explored
Career Exploration Areas
A group of students are learning about respiratory therapy and equipment

Students were exposed to careers in:

  • Human Milk Technician
  • Infectious Disease
  • Information Services
  • Lab Technicians
  • Pharmacy
  • Radiology
  • Research
  • Respiratory Therapy
  • School Based Health
  • Simulation Center
Training Topics
A group of students learning in the simulation center

Students received training and education on:

  • CPR
  • HIPAA and protecting patient health information
  • Medical terminology
  • Financial literacy
  • Interview skills, resume writing and networking
Feedback From Students
A high school student stands with two employees, holding a certificate of completion
  • “This program was super beneficial and life changing. As a student who is going to college to major in Medical Sciences, this program gave me the opportunity to experience the medical field!”
  • “If someone is interested in exploring many different careers paths in depth, I would genuinely recommend the Career Academy.”
  • “It’s a great experience, even if you’re not completely sure about what you want to do with your future. It’s a very eye-opening experience for careers you may have never thought about.”
  • “Thank you, thank you, thank you to all the departments who gave insight into their jobs. It made me 100% want to work here once I’m done with school.”
  • “It’s a good way to get extra knowledge and info on different careers.”
  • “I learned so many new things. I gained more interest in my career path.”
  • “This program is a really good place to learn about so many healthcare careers.”
  • “It’s a good opportunity to explore different healthcare jobs and prepare for the hiring process for any job.”