Young & Junior Pacesetters
My Pace: Young & Junior Pacesetters
3rd Grade
Research & Development
Research & Improve aspects of patient care
Biomedical Engineer
Microbiologist
Geneticist
Clinical Research Coordinator
4th Grade
Provide patient & facility support
Doulas
Medical Assistant
Surgical Technologist
Home Health Aide
5th Grade
Provide patient care & treatment
Physical Therapist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Registered Nurse
Respiratory Therapist
Physician
6th Grade
Identify patient health status / conditions
Radiologic Technologist
Medical Laboratory Technician
Diagnostic Sonographer
Cardiovascular Technologist
7th Grade
Manage patient information
Health Information Technician
Clinical Informatics Specialist
Medical Records Manager
Clinical Data Analyst
8th Grade
Overview of the Healthcare industry
Parent’s Guide to Supporting Career Exploration
When does recruitment happen?
Our recruitment process happens in the fall of each academic year. If you miss registration in the fall or transfer into a site that is hosting our program, contact us directly via email about your special circumstance.
How can I start a conversation with my child about career exploration?
As a parent, you play a crucial role in initiating these conversations. Start by asking your child about their interests and hobbies. Discuss how these activities relate to different careers. You can also share stories about your career journey or those of family members. The goal is to make the conversation casual and relatable, helping your child see the connection between what they enjoy and potential career paths.
Why is it important for my child to explore healthcare careers early?
When kids explore healthcare careers early, it can help them feel more comfortable about their future. They get to see many job options in a field that’s growing. It can be empowering for them too, because they can imagine how they might help their family, friends, and community. Getting this early look can also help them figure out what they’re interested in and what they need to study to have a successful career in healthcare.
What steps can I take to support my child's educational journey towards a healthcare career?
Encourage your child to excel in science and math, as these subjects are foundational for many healthcare careers. Look for extracurricular activities like science clubs or health-related camps. Additionally, keep an open line of communication with teachers to ensure your child is on track academically and seek out programs offering hands-on healthcare experiences. in and what they need to study to have a successful career in healthcare.
How can I help my child overcome challenges they may face in exploring careers where they are underrepresented or underresourced?
Your voice in talking with their teachers and the principal is pivotal. Talking to parents from other schools and school districts and letting your principal and teacher know that exposure is important to you will also empower you with resources throughout Grand Rapids. We have resources in our resource corner, but there is more out there for you to connect to!
What do I do if my student is not a school My Pace is offered in, but I want my child to participate in the program?
We are 100% grant-funded, so our funding limits us in where to take our program and which students we serve. Our first priority is serving our students in under-resourced schools and providing access to our African American and underrepresented students. If you would like to see us at your school, talk to your principal and please draft us an email letting us know you’re interested in us coming to your school. We can’t promise we can bring the program there, but your verbal and written support can enhance our grant requests. Your child can also join our High Five Summer Program. Stay tuned for more details.
Learn About My Pace Members
Explore the PHC Programs
