Auburn High School senior Tim Sullivan always knew a career in medicine was a strong possibility for his future. After all, many of his family members are in the medical field.
However, it wasn’t until Sullivan enrolled in the Health Related Occupations program at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES that he was able to truly jumpstart his future goals.
“I think I always knew I’d be going into the medical field. My uncle became a nurse a few years ago, and I knew that is what I would most likely do,” said Sullivan. “After enrolling in a different program, I was able to make the switch to Health Related Occupations, and I am very proud I decided to make that switch.”
Health Care Occupations is one of 19 Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES. The program provides a broad foundation of theory and clinical skills, enabling students to pursue entry-level employment or continuing education in the medical field.
Sullivan said the program is preparing him for a bright future in nursing, adding that he would suggest the program to any high school student interested in the healthcare field.
“I would absolutely tell them to take the program right away,” Sullivan said. “If you have any thought about working in healthcare in the future, why not get started in high school?”
Sullivan added that even if someone isn’t interested in a career in healthcare, he would still recommend any of the other CTE programs offered at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES.
“In any one of these programs, you can take the knowledge you’ve received and go out and get a job right after graduation,” he said.
Sullivan said his favorite part of the program is being able to participate in clinical rotations, where students work hands-on at approved healthcare sites under the supervision of professionals in the field. Sullivan said he likes clinical rotations because he enjoys taking care of people and making connections with patients.
Sullivan said after high school, he is planning to attend nursing school to further his studies. He said the Health Related Occupations program and CTE has helped prepare him for the next level.
“If I didn’t choose this CTE program I wouldn’t be where I am now,” he said.