Medical Career Day Draws More Than 900 Students

Huntington High School partnered with Northwell Health to host its first-ever Medical Career Day. Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals, participate in hands-on activities, attend live demonstrations, and explore a wide variety of careers within the medical and healthcare fields.

“The level of student engagement, curiosity, and enthusiasm was truly inspiring to witness,” one teacher said. According to Northwell Health’s Institute of Community Health and Wellness, in partnership with Huntington Hospital, the event brought together 32 service lines and reached more than 900 students throughout the day. The experience provided students with meaningful exposure to a broad range of healthcare careers while creating valuable opportunities for engagement, exploration, and learning.

The sprawling event played out in Louis D. Giani Gymnasium. In addition to the interactive stations and demonstrations, students also had the opportunity to attend presentations in the Heritage Room led by Huntington Hospital President, Dr. Nick Fitterman and Health Education Supervisor, Marina Pettinicchi. Their discussions on the dangers of vaping and the importance of proper nutrition sparked thoughtful conversations and strong student interest. Every seat in the Heritage Room was filled, further highlighting the enthusiasm and engagement our students brought to the day.

“What made the event especially impactful was the way it broadened students’ perspectives about the many pathways available within healthcare,” Principal Rochelle C. Brown said.

One student summed it up perfectly when they shared with a classmate, “I thought the medical field was just doctors and nurses. I had no idea that it involved so many other avenues.” “Moments like this reflect exactly what we hoped to accomplish, which was to open students’ eyes to new possibilities and helping them envision futures they may never have previously considered,” Ms. Brown said.

“The feedback from both students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Assistant Principal Gamal Smith, who helped coordinate the initiative. “Many students expressed appreciation for the opportunity to interact directly with professionals and ask questions about educational pathways, career experiences, and the realities of working in healthcare. Staff members also shared how valuable it was to see students so actively engaged in learning beyond the traditional classroom setting.”

Northwell Health described the event as a “standout experience,” highlighting the energy, engagement, and collaboration that made the day so successful. “We are incredibly grateful for their partnership, support, and commitment to providing our students with authentic and inspiring career exploration opportunities,” Ms. Brown said.

District officials said that Huntington High School remains committed to creating meaningful experiences that help students connect classroom learning to future college and career pathways.

“Based on the success of this year’s event, we look forward to continuing and expanding opportunities like Medical Career Day in the future,” Mr. Smith said. “Thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a memorable and impactful experience for our students.”