Pomperaug High Students Gain Experience Through Healthcare Shadowing Program | Health & Fitness

MIDDLEBURY–SOUTHBURY — Fourteen Pomperaug High School (PHS) juniors and seniors took a major step toward their futures in medicine and health sciences this year through their participation in the EdAdvance Regional Healthcare Shadowing Program.

These students explored a variety of medical careers through direct experience in clinical settings, working closely with healthcare professionals across the region.

Organized through a partnership between EdAdvance and the PHS Career Center, the program provides students with two, nine-week clinical shadowing placements. Participants also completed online coursework and attended after-school workshops throughout the school year. Career experiences ranged from surgical observation and physical therapy to nursing and even veterinary medicine, allowing students to connect their academic studies to real-world practice.

For students like PHS senior Lucas Palmas, being in a surgical environment was transformative.

“Nothing prepares you quite like being behind the scenes,” he said, in a statement. Lucas’s spring placement in surgery led to a summer job as an OR assistant, turning his classroom interest into a career path.

PHS student Amelia Walker, who shadowed in a nursing unit, shared that being surrounded by passionate, knowledgeable professionals helped her feel confident about her future.

“The people I worked with gave great advice on how to diagnose, help and connect with patients. It reinforced my desire to go into nursing,” Amelia said, in a statement.

Katherine D’Uva, who spent time in a critical care unit, said the most powerful moment came during an honor walk for an organ donor.

“It was a reminder that healthcare is about more than procedures — it’s about compassion, dignity and supporting families during life’s hardest moments,” Katherine said in a statement.

Each student reflected on the depth of their learning, whether through observing patient-therapist relationships in physical therapy, watching medical consultations, or experiencing the emotional pace of pre- and post-operative care.

“Thank you, students, for your hard work and dedication,” said Karen Moore, Program Manager at EdAdvance, in a statement. “This is a demanding and meaningful experience that requires a great deal of maturity, compassion, and time. Over the years, many participants—both current and former—have shared just how valuable this program has been in shaping their career goals and deepening their understanding of healthcare. Whether it’s discovering a passion for nursing, gaining insight into patient care, or simply learning how to navigate a professional setting, the experiences students take from this program often stay with them far beyond high school. We hope it gave everyone both clarity and inspiration as you take your next steps.”

Participating students were celebrated this spring for their commitment and growth in the PHS College and Career Center office.

Those interested in more information on the EdAdvance Healthcare Shadowing Program may contact the Pomperaug High School Career Center.