The KU Medical Center Area Health Education Center (AHEC) is working hard to shape the future of health care in Kansas by actively promoting health careers to students across the state. With a packed schedule of innovative programs and events, the AHEC is fully committed to inspiring the next generation of health care professionals and ensuring that Kansas youth are well-prepared to enter the field. 

Journeys & Destinations is one such initiative, offering high school students a unique, day-long opportunity to engage directly with local health care professionals from various disciplines. This immersive experience allows students to learn about career paths, salaries and daily activities in fields such as family medicine, athletic training, nursing and more. Offering this program to Colby, Girard and Dodge City in the next few weeks — and Hays in 2025 — the AHEC is ensuring that students in these communities can explore their options and find the perfect fit in the health care industry. 

Another key event, the Kansas HOSA Fall Leadership Conference in October, provides a platform for students to network with health care professionals, engage in competitive mock events and develop their skills in areas such as medical assisting, biotechnology and forensic science. As the state affiliate of HOSA-Future Health Professionals, Kansas HOSA, under AHEC's guidance, has seen remarkable growth, achieving national recognition for its excellence. 

In June, Kansas HOSA participated in HOSA’s International Leadership Conference in Houston, Texas, earning honors, scholarships and even a Hall of Fame inductee! 

Teacher Externship Day at KU Medical Center offers Kansas health science teachers the chance to gain firsthand experience with health career programs through one-day, immersive activities. Offered four times per year, this program aims to help them better guide their students in pursuing health care careers. This program not only enhances the teachers' understanding but also strengthens the connection between Kansas high schools and KU Medical Center, fostering a collaborative approach to health science education. 

For students who have demonstrated a strong interest in health care professions, the invitation-only Health Career Exploration Day at KU Medical Center provides an immersive, hands-on learning experience. By expanding this popular program to include a fifth session in late November, AHEC is responding to the growing demand and ensuring that more students can benefit from this opportunity to explore career options and network with professionals. 

The Night @ The Lab competition is a standout event that challenges Kansas high school students to conduct research and present on health-related topics. This competition not only hones their research and presentation skills but also highlights the importance of innovation and knowledge in the evolving world of health care. Regional winners have the chance to go head-to-head at KU Medical Center on December 10, gaining insights and exposure to various health care departments. 

Finally, the Women in Health Care: The Next Generation program is a popular initiative that supports and encourages young women interested in health careers. This free, three-day program in April 2025 will bring together 14-16 female juniors and seniors from Kansas high schools, offering them the chance to interact with health professions students and faculty at KU Medical Center. Through this program, AHEC is nurturing the next generation of female leaders in health care. 

Behind the scenes of every one of these important initiatives is one individual: Tina Goosz-Garetson, AHEC Health Career Communications Coordinator and Kansas HOSA State Advisor. With Tina’s leadership and support, the AHEC continues its mission to promote health careers to Kansas youth and ensure a bright future for the state's health care workforce.