Career Buddy Definition
A Career Buddy is an individual assigned to a student that has attended the Introduction to Careers in Healthcare Program. Portions of the program attended will have included the Career Club and a shadowing or internship/externship experience. Individuals may, upon request, be matched to an adult working in the healthcare field that most closely matches the specialty the student has chosen. This “Career Buddy” relationship will serve as a support to strengthen and maintain the student's interest in a career in healthcare. This one-on-one relationship will serve as a personal encouragement and support to strengthen the student's engagement in their field of interest. It is not intended to replace school or parental guidance for higher education entry. It is intended to give insight to aspects of the student's chosen field of study.
————————————————————————————————————————
Career Buddy Job Description
A Career Buddy volunteer, once matched to a student by the ITCH Administrative team, will be available by phone, text, or email to listen to the student's aspirations, share personal experiences of entry into their chosen field, and to support and encourage the student in their pursuit of higher education. Points of contact should be mutually agreed upon.
Discussions may include high school course focus. This should include recommendations gleaned from the student's parents and career/guidance counselors. These discussions may also include suggestions for school and community activities that lend themselves to a healthcare focus and academic success.
Career Buddies may share personal stories of their educational and professional experiences that specifically relate to achieving academic and professional success. The intention would be to give the student insight into aspects of the chosen field of study.
Career Buddies will be active listeners, allowing their assigned student to express concerns and questions related to their career pathway.
Career Buddies may, at their discretion, write letters of recommendation for the student. They may also, according to their comfort level, guide students in resume writing and preparation for interviews. Career Buddies should make students aware of the information regarding scholarships posted on the ITCH website, www.itchmed.org/scholarships.
The Career Buddy portion of the Career Pathway Program is intended to give encouragement to students on their career journey. Again, it is not intended to replace school and parental guidance for students.
Career Buddies should refer any question or concerns about students assigned to them to the ITCH Administrative team at info@itchmed.org.