The Bridge Academy continued its leadership and career exploration series with Session 4 at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis. Students and participants spent the day gaining firsthand insight into the many career pathways that support patient care while also participating in meaningful service projects throughout the hospital.
Recognized as one of the nation’s leading children's hospitals, Le Bonheur serves families across the Mid-South through a wide range of specialized pediatric services and multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Throughout the visit, Bridge Academy students heard from professionals representing several departments, including Pediatric Surgery, the Emergency Department, Hospital Medicine, Nutrition Services, Nursing, and Pharmacy. Each presenter shared information about their career journey, educational requirements, daily responsibilities, and the collaborative nature of healthcare.
Students also received a guided tour of the hospital, providing a behind-the-scenes look at how various departments work together to deliver exceptional care to children and families. The experience highlighted the many career opportunities available within the healthcare industry, extending far beyond traditional clinical roles.
The day concluded with a series of service-learning projects designed to support patients, families, and hospital staff. Students volunteered their time by assisting with the snack cart, book cart, and comfort cart, as well as participating in activities within the Neuro Clinic. Additional projects included organizing and cleaning designated areas and leading crafts and games for patients.
“This experience provided our students with a valuable opportunity to explore healthcare careers while demonstrating the importance of service and community engagement,” said Beth Turner, Director of Workforce Development for DeSoto County Schools. “Our students not only learned from healthcare professionals but also had the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families receiving care.”
The Bridge Academy continues to connect students with industry leaders and community partners, helping them develop leadership skills, explore career pathways, and understand the value of serving others. Through experiences like this, students gain real-world exposure that supports informed decisions about their future education and career goals.
DeSoto County Schools extends its appreciation to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and its dedicated staff for providing an engaging and impactful experience for our Bridge Academy students.