SHREVEPORT, La. — LSU Health Shreveport welcomed more than 100 students and their families for a career readiness event designed to help aspiring healthcare professionals prepare for education and careers in medicine and related fields.
Hosted by the university’s Office for Student and Community Engagement, the “Family Affair” program brought together middle school, high school and college students, along with parents, educators and healthcare leaders, to provide information on academic preparation and career pathways.
Participants attended sessions led by representatives from the College Board and the Association of American Medical Colleges, covering admissions testing, healthcare careers, academic success strategies and professional development opportunities.
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student and Community Engagement Dr. Toni Thibeaux said the event emphasized the importance of early preparation for students interested in healthcare careers.
“Readiness starts as early as middle school,” Thibeaux said. “We wanted to provide a space where families could learn together about the academic preparation, support systems, and opportunities available to help students succeed on their educational journey.”
The event also featured students pursuing careers in medicine, including Skylar Cardwell, who said the program reinforced a long-term goal of becoming a physician.
“I want to be a doctor so that I can use my intelligence to help others,” Cardwell said. “Making sure children’s health is the best that it can be helps improve our generations for years to come.”
Thibeaux said organizers hope students and their families left with a better understanding of the educational resources available to support future healthcare professionals.
“I want them to leave knowing that LSU Health Shreveport is here to support them,” Thibeaux said. “Hopefully, families will take this information home and continue these conversations together.”