This summer, Urban Initiatives launched an exciting new pilot program in partnership with Advocate Health: Pathways to Purpose, a six-week paid internship designed to introduce high school students to meaningful careers in healthcare.
The partnership brought together the unique strengths of both organizations. Advocate Health provided industry expertise, professional mentors, and hosted the internship at Advocate Trinity Hospital, giving students an authentic healthcare environment in which to learn.
Urban Initiatives contributed our long-standing relationships with Chicago Public Schools, expertise in workforce readiness and career-connected learning, and our unique approach to making learning engaging through interactive, game-based experiences.
Twenty-two students, ages 16–18, were selected from a competitive pool of applicants after being nominated by their high school teachers. Participants represented South Shore High School, Englewood STEM High School, Percy L. Julian High School, Simeon Career Academy, and Gary Comer College Prep.
To ensure every student could fully participate, the program provided Ventra transit cards, daily lunch, and snacks, as well as attendance incentives that helped remove barriers to consistent participation.
The internship introduced students to five high-demand healthcare careers that are often overlooked by young people exploring future opportunities. Advocate Health’s Workforce Development team selected the following career pathways: Surgical Prep and Sterilization Technician, X-Ray Technician, Respiratory Therapist, Community Health Worker, and Clinical Nurse Assistant.
Throughout the program, students participated in interactive lessons, heard firsthand from healthcare professionals about their career journeys, and collaborated on presentations showcasing what they learned, which they shared with hospital staff during the program’s culminating celebration.
In addition to career exploration, interns developed essential workplace skills that will benefit them in any profession. Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects, students practiced professionalism, communication, punctuality, resume development, teamwork, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Some of the program’s most memorable experiences took learning beyond the classroom. Students explored Advocate Trinity Hospital’s simulation lab, where they interacted with advanced medical training equipment and gained a deeper understanding of patient care. They also volunteered with the Food Farmacy, an initiative led by Advocate Community Health Workers that provides nutritious food to community members experiencing food insecurity.
Another highlight was participating in a U-Metics trauma response training, where students learned lifesaving first-aid techniques and built confidence responding to emergency situations.
Pathways to Purpose demonstrated what is possible when healthcare providers and community organizations work together to create meaningful career-connected learning experiences. By combining real-world exposure, professional mentorship, and workforce development, the program helped students envision themselves in careers that strengthen both their futures and the communities they call home.
This is the start of an exciting partnership with Advocate Healthcare, which we know will impact not only the lives of local youth, but the communities they will serve through their future careers.
At the end of the program, 95% of students shared that “I have a clearer idea of what I want to do with my future.” and “I am hopeful about my future.”
One student stated, “They showed me how to not be afraid to step out my comfort zone and speak up when no one else isn’t.”
“Pathways to Purpose had a great impact on me, not only through the knowledge I gained but also through the positive influence of my peers and educators. Their positivity and laughter made a huge difference in my journey, and I am truly grateful for their support.”
“One Way Pathway to Purpose helped me realize that every experience is preparing me for my future career. Through this internship, I gained confidence, learned professional skills, and saw how my work can positively impact others.”
“I gained a lot of knowledge about different healthcare careers.”
Looking Forward
We are excited to continue our partnership with Advocate and continue to provide opportunities in the workforce development space. Including, continuing the Pathways to Purpose internship, connecting with Take the Lead middle school students, and much more!
