Hartford High School JMG Students Explore Healthcare Careers with Corewell Health

November is Career Development Month — and what better way to celebrate than by connecting youth directly with professionals shaping Michigan’s workforce?

On November 5, students from the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program at Hartford High School hosted an engaging Careers in Healthcare Panel in partnership with Corewell Health, giving youth a front-row seat to explore the many paths and possibilities within the healthcare field.

A Student-Led Experience

The event was fully organized and led by Hartford High School’s JMG Career Association officers, each with dreams of pursuing a career in medicine.

• Joanna Duran-Cruz, President and aspiring Anesthesiologist Assistant

• Lily Goodson, Vice President and future Nurse

• Zaraida Cruz, Secretary and future Doctor

  
  

These student leaders guided the discussion, introduced guests, and moderated the Q&A  while demonstrating confidence, professionalism, and a strong passion for their futures.

Other student leaders supporting the event:

• Brianna Friedrich, VP of Community Service and future Ultrasound Tech

• Arely Ruiz-Garcia, VP of Career Development and future Dental Hygienist

• Berenice Alvarez, VP of Social Awareness and future Nurse

• Faith Groth, VP of Civic Awareness

• T’ionna Maeder, Chief Social Awareness Advisor and future Radiologist

• Briana Rivas, Class Representative and future Nurse

• Josais Robles, Chief Community Service Advisor and microphone runner

• Alex Duran-Cruz, Social Media Specialist/Photographer

• Bryan Rivas, Treasurer

• Jon Jon Covington, Class Representative

  
  

Meet the Panelists

Students had the opportunity to hear directly from seven inspiring Corewell Health professionals who represent diverse career paths across the healthcare spectrum:

• Patricia Rittase, Registered Medical Assistant and Hartford High School Alumna

• Dr. Edgar Kavistan-Velez, Physical Therapist, Outpatient Rehabilitation

• Emily Page, Clinical Pharmacist

• Dr. Charsie Nealey, Nurse Practitioner, Hospice Care

• Stephanie Ostrander, Vice President of Human Resources

• Shalini Randolph, Registered Nurse and Post-Surgical Care Unit Manager

• Sarah Isbrecht, Pharmacy Technician

  
  

Each panelist shared their journey: what inspired them to enter healthcare, the skills that drive success, the challenges they’ve faced, and the many growth opportunities available within Corewell Health.

Real-World Insight, Real Impact

The conversation gave students a firsthand look at the variety of healthcare careers that exist beyond traditional doctor and nurse roles. Panelists emphasized the importance of compassion, teamwork, and lifelong learning in the field, while also sharing personal stories of perseverance and purpose.

Students came prepared with thoughtful questions ranging from education and work-life balance to career advancement and motivation. As JMG specialist, Jocelynne Gordon shared, “Opportunities like this help students connect classroom learning to real-world careers by sparking passion, confidence, and purpose.”

Building Michigan’s Future Workforce

This partnership between Youth Solutions’ JMG program and Corewell Health showcases the power of career-connected learning - helping young people explore options, gain clarity on their goals, and envision themselves in meaningful careers that strengthen their communities.

Interested in inspiring the next generation of Michigan’s workforce? Partner with us to show youth the possibilities within your industry. Contact us today