Careers event for students brings jobs in health care sector to life
15 universities and employers joined forces with 12 different professions to give advice to 150 students about careers in the health sector. The learners all got the chance to take part in a fair about job roles hosted by the Eastern Education Group that was held at the University Professional Development Centre in Bury St Edmunds.
Designed to give young people direct access to industry professionals, the event featured a Living Library, hands-on workshops, interactive stalls, and presentations. Students engaged with general practitioners, podiatrists, paramedics, pharmacists, midwives, and many others.
Virginia Planas, organiser of the event and a practising nurse, midwife, and Strategic NHS and Healthcare Partnership Manager at Eastern Education Group, said: "This ‘day in the life’ event allowed students to explore a wide range of careers. With practical demonstrations, university and employer stands, and work experience sessions, the day was well-rounded and fast-paced. Our hope is that students feel inspired to pursue careers in this sector. Thank you to all the stakeholders, visitors, and volunteers for helping to ensure that the day was a success, and we aim to organise an even bigger event next year, welcoming students from both inside and outside Eastern Education Group."
Grace Chambers-Salah, 17, in Ipswich, studies on a health and social care level three course at One Sixth Form College. Grace said: “It’s been very useful. I looked at stands and sat down and talked with professionals who gave me insights. After today I want to go down the route of mental health nursing. It’s been an exciting experience.”
Jeniyah Myatt, 16, from Ipswich is on the same course as Grace. Jeniyah said: “I think it has helped me figure out different ways into adult nursing. The event has been motivational.”
Carla Silva, 17, from Ipswich is also studying on a health course at ONE. Carla said: “Today was really helpful speaking to people to find out the steps you need to do, to get into what you want to do.”
Tracey Barham is a senior support worker for Home First – an organisation providing health care thanks to the support of Suffolk County Council.
Tracey said: “We had two stalls and it’s been really busy. We have spoken to students and we have been explaining our services and what their potential is.”
On the event itself, Tracey added: “If students are on the fence, they can go round, talk to people and make more informed choices.”
Farhana Uddin came along representing occupational health. The year three University of East Anglia student said: “I thought it (the event) was really good – and it was nice to meet the students. It was good to talk about occupational therapy. I think this career can take you anywhere.”
Grace Rutt is an occupational therapist working in adult social care based at West Suffolk House. Grace said: “Students asked some really good questions. It was useful to chat with them and share what we do.”
Solomon Holmes is student recruitment officer at the University of Suffolk and he was promoting a range of courses. He said: “I have had some in depth conversations. The students have been very friendly - and I’ve been impressed by the facilities (at University Professional Development Centre.”