Evening Bite and Career Insights with Allegheny Health Network
Written by: Hannah Fischer, Graduate Associate for the Internship Program
On September 23rd, the Chatham Pre-PA Club hosted Allegheny Health Network (AHN) on campus to help students improve their resume for healthcare related jobs and valuable interview tips. Keep reading to hear more about the event from Piper Young, President of Pre-PA Club, and Nicholas Joseph, Early Careers Talent Recruiter from AHN.
Hear from Piper Young:
What goals did you hope to achieve during Evening Bites and Career Insights?
“I hoped this event would allow Pre-Health students to get a head start on professional development early in the school year to set themselves up for confidence and success in any opportunities that may arise throughout their academic endeavors.”
How do you think events like this help students interested in healthcare prepare for the challenges of applying to professional programs or future careers?
“This experience was an incredible opportunity from several different perspectives. Nicholas Joseph, who is the recruiter from AHN, offered students the opportunity to explore paid healthcare positions and shadowing opportunities for those hoping to get their foot in the door with one of Pittsburgh's largest employers. Having Hannah and Grace from Career Development at the event to talk about their services (resume assistance, mock interviews) on campus, hopefully gave students more confidence going into professional events. Professor Li, who is a professor from the Chatham Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program, was also at our event. She provided a first-hand look into the importance of having a well-rounded professional profile to excel in graduate-level programs and beyond.”
What was the most valuable insight or piece of advice you personally took away from the workshop?
“I found the most valuable aspect of the workshop was the connection we built with Nicholas from AHN through this event. Nicholas was enthusiastic to present numerous opportunities across the AHN franchise for Chatham students. From paid roles to shadowing opportunities, this partnership with AHN will be invaluable to Pre-Health students going forward as they begin to build their professional portfolios.”
How did students engage with the workshop activities, and what feedback have you received from attendees so far?
“The event began with a short presentation from Nicholas, where he offered insightful tips on resume building and how to excel in interviews. Also, he discussed the opportunities offered through AHN, such as paid, entry-level healthcare positions and shadowing experiences. Hannah and Grace from Career Development spoke with attendees about mock interviews and resume-building services offered on campus at Chatham. Professor Shuo Li, Pre-PA Club faculty advisor and Chatham MPAS faculty member, was also in attendance to speak from her experience both as a physician assistant and program faculty advisor. Attendees found the opportunity for mock interviews with Career Development and shadowing experiences with AHN especially exciting.”
Looking ahead, how does the Pre-PA Club plan to build on this event to continue supporting members’ professional development?
“Looking forward, the Pre-PA Club is excited to announce several upcoming events. During National Physician Assistant Week (Oct 6-12), club members will have the chance to paint the spirit rock on campus, as well as spread awareness of the roles and responsibilities of PAs in the healthcare field. On October 16, we will be bringing back a campus favorite: Pre-PA Bingo! This is an event where students of all backgrounds can come together and enjoy a relaxing night of bingo, prizes, and snacks, all while highlighting the past, present, and future of the PA profession. In November, we are working with Professor Shuo Li to arrange an undergraduate visit to the Chatham Eastside campus. This visit will include a tour of the facilities and a chance to speak with current PA students about their experiences.”
Hear from Nicholas Joseph:
What inspired AHN to partner with the Pre-PA Club for this workshop, and what impact did you hope to have on students?
“AHN's partnership with the Pre-PA Club stems from a desire to cultivate strong relationships and guide the next generation of healthcare providers. We hope to provide students with the tools and insights necessary to succeed in their pursuit of healthcare careers.”
From your perspective, why are resume and interview skills particularly important for students interested in healthcare careers?
“Resume and interview skills are crucial for students in healthcare because they provide a platform to showcase their passion, experience, and potential. The ability to effectively communicate their qualifications and enthusiasm allows them to stand out and secure valuable opportunities in a competitive field. More interviews and applications lead to more opportunities.”
What key advice or recurring themes did you emphasize during the workshop that you believe students need to hear most?
“The overarching theme was that every experience, regardless of its perceived relevance, holds value and can be translated into a strength. For example, experience as a waiter or waitress demonstrates the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and handle customer interactions effectively.”
How did you see students responding and engaging with the information or activities you shared?
“The students were highly engaged, demonstrating a mix of experience, insightful ideas, and thoughtful questions. The high quality of student preparedness is a credit to Chatham's Pre-PA program.”
In what ways does AHN envision continuing to support students and aspiring healthcare professionals beyond events like this one?
“AHN is committed to ongoing support through initiatives such as continuing workshops, hosting mock interview sessions with AHN professionals, and providing hospital tours to give students a firsthand look at our facilities and operations. We believe this is just the beginning of an amazing partnership that benefits both our organization and aspiring healthcare professionals.”