Pursuit, Providence Hospitals’ education program for rising high school juniors and seniors in the Midlands is underway. This two-week summer program allows students the opportunity to shadow health care professionals and learn about the medical field first-hand.

LaKedra Johnson, a student from Fairfield Central High School, was one of 42 students chosen to participate in the Pursuit program out of 100 applicants from Richland, Lexington and Fairfield districts. The program is split into two, two-week sessions, with 21 students participating in each session.

The Pursuit program gives students a chance to discover what it’s like to work in a hospital and encourages them to consider health care professions as part of their future. Program participants take part in a mock gallbladder surgery and share in a patient care scenario using an interactive simulation mannequin. Students shadow employees in various clinical areas, including nursing units, the laboratory, pharmacy, radiology and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Additionally, students visit the University of South Carolina School of Medicine to learn more about research and clinical studies. Students who complete the program also receive a small stipend.

Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity Health System, Providence Hospitals is known statewide for its compassionate care. This non-profit organization is licensed for 304 beds and is comprised of four entities: Providence Hospital, Providence Heart & Vascular Institute, Providence Hospital Northeast and Providence Orthopaedic & Neuro Spine Institute.